48 Hours in Lynton & Lynmouth: Cliffs, Coast & Cream Teas
Perched where Exmoor meets the sea, Lynton & Lynmouth give you the perfect mix of big views, coastal air and old-fashioned charm. This 48 hours itinerary shows you exactly how to make the most of a weekend here—from clifftop walks and harbour wanderings to the cream teas everyone ends up talking about.
Before your 48 hour Trip
A quick primer so you’re not scrolling for the basics:
Where you’ll stay:
Lynton for quieter evenings and big views.
Lynmouth for the beach, harbour and close-to-the-water feel.
How to get here:
Drive via the A39 (beautiful but winding).
Bus links from Barnstaple.
Rail via Barnstaple + bus to Lynton & Lynmouth.
Getting around:
Everything sits within a compact area. The Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway connects the two villages without the need to tackle the steep hill.Walking notes:
The South West Coast Path and Valley of Rocks are right on your doorstep. Pack layers, proper shoes and a camera.
48 Hours Itinerary
Day 1 — Your first 24 hours in Lynton & Lynmouth
Suggested Timing
Arrive: Late morning or early afternoon
Overnight: Lynton or Lynmouth
Arrive & Check In
Drop bags if possible witth your accommodation. or just park up and get your bearings.
Choose your starting point: Lynton (upper town) or Lynmouth (seafront).
First Explore
Lynton: Town Hall, churchyard viewpoint, independent shops.
Lynmouth: Harbour, beach, river walk, Rhenish Tower.
Ride the Cliff Railway
A must-do early in the trip.
Tip: Ride downwards for the most dramatic views.
Cream Tea #1
Settle in properly with a cream tea — upper or lower village, your choice.
Gentle Afternoon Options
Stroll along the Esplanade.
Explore a small heritage stop.
Short coastal or riverside wander.
Dinner & Evening
Cosy pub meal, relaxed restaurant or fish & chips by the sea.
Option: Stargazing — you’re at the edge of Exmoor’s Dark Sky Reserve
Day 2 — The Final 24 Hours: Valley of Rocks & Coast Walks
Suggested Timing
- Start after breakfast
- Walking options from 1–6 hours depending on energy and weather
Slow Breakfast
Fuel up in Lynton or Lynmouth before heading out.
Walk to Valley of Rocks
From Lynton: coastal path via North Walk.
From Lynmouth: up via cliff railway or zig-zag path.
Choose a Walk Length
Short (1–2 hrs): Valley loop, easy viewpoints.
Medium (3–4 hrs): Extend to Lee Abbey / Woody Bay.
Lunch Options
Packed lunch on the cliffs
Or back into town for a café or pub lunch
Afternoon Extras
Independent shop browse
River or harbour stroll
Quick gallery, museum or heritage stop
Final Views & Departure
One last clifftop lookout or beachfront moment.
Pick up local treats for the journey home.
Practical Variations
No-car Version
Arrive via Barnstaple rail + bus links.
Use the Cliff Railway as your main connector.
All walks in this itinerary are fully accessible on foot.
Rainy Day Tweaks
Swap long walks for short cliff or river strolls.
Add cafes, shops, galleries and indoor heritage spots.
Keep waterproofs handy — showers pass quickly here.
Accessibility & Pace
The Cliff Railway avoids the steepest hill.
Shorter loops available at Valley of Rocks.
Plenty of benches and sheltered
Plan & Book Your 48 Hours
Use these pages to shape the perfect weekend:
To learn more about the Exmoor National Park visit the official Exmoor National Park website.
