While on a week-end break in Minehead, Somerset, we hopped on the coaster bus to the nearby town of Lynmouth. Wonderful views as we travelled through Exmoor and the journey of 20 miles took around one hour. Not only did we see quite a few of the famous Exmoor ponies, looking sleek and shiney with their summer coats; we also saw a herd of deer.
Lynmouth is a picturesque town full of interesting little shops, fishing cottages and cafes. You can wonder along the harbour side where not far away is a fine putting green, with lots of places to stop and have a picinic with far reaching sea views.
High above Lynmouth is the historic village of Lynton and the best way to get there is via the incredible Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway.
The historic Victorian railway opened in 1890 and is thought to be the highest and steepest totally water powered railway in the world. The 862 feet of track rises 500 feet with an impressive gradient of 57% providing stunning views across Lynmouth Bay. The railway is a fully working listed heritage monument is the UK’s only fully water powered railway and one of only three examples left in the world.
A one-way trip on the railway is £3.30 per person. Dogs welcome for £1. It may seem ‘steep’ but I think it’s well worth the money to keep this unique piece of our history running and so useful. I did walk down but walk up ‘I don’t think so.’
About Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway
Devon’s famous Lynton & Lynmouth funicular Cliff Railway is the most exciting way to travel between these two historic towns & will be the highlight of any visit. Enjoy stunning views of the North Devon Coastline as you ride the steepest totally water powered railway in the world or relax in our Cliff Top Cafe with a traditional Devon Cream Tea. This historic Victorian railway opened in 1890. The 862 feet of track rises 500 feet with an impressive gradient of 57% providing stunning views across Lynmouth Bay. The railway is a fully working listed heritage monument is the UK’s only fully water powered railway and one of only three examples left in the world.