Why Lynton & Lynmouth are called “Little Switzerland”

Lynton is a small town located on the North Devon coast, which is known for its stunning scenery and spectacular high cliffs. The town is situated in the breathtaking beauty of Exmoor National Park, and it is a popular tourist destination. One of the reasons why Lynton is known as “Little Switzerland” is due to its appearance, which was described as distinctly Alpine by the poet Robert Southey in 1799. The name stuck, probably due to a bit of skilful Victorian marketing.

Lynton is perched on top of a cliff and has an extremely distinctive Town Hall, which was given to the people of Lynton in 1900 by Sir George Newnes, who also financed the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway. The railway is a popular attraction, and it is the highest and steepest fully water-powered railway in the world. Visitors can enjoy sensational views from the railway, provided they are not scared of heights.

The town of Lynmouth is linked to Lynton by the famous Grade II listed funicular Cliff Railway. The two towns offer incredible opportunities for holiday experiences for everyone, with plenty of things to do close by. Visitors can enjoy beautiful historic houses and gardens or take a walk on one of the many trails. Serious walkers can choose from the South West Coast Path, the Tarka Trail, the Two Moors Way, the Samaritans Way South West, and the Coleridge Way.

There are also lovely walks more locally, amongst the most popular are up the river gorge to Watersmeet, along the coast path to the Valley of Rocks or around Hollerday Hill with terrific views overlooking Lynton.

The area is also known for its wildlife, including red deer and Exmoor ponies, which roam freely across the moor. There is also a herd of wild goats in the Valley of the Rocks. Local opinions are divided about the goats, and you are unlikely to find too many keen gardeners who are fond of them!

Many artists, poets, and writers have been inspired by the area. Thomas Gainsborough had his honeymoon in Lynmouth and described it as “the most delightful place for a landscape painter this country can boast.” Percy Bysshe Shelley also spent three months in the village in 1812 working on political pamphlets and on the poem “Queen Mab.”

In conclusion, Lynton is called “Little Switzerland” due to its Alpine appearance, which was first noted by the poet Robert Southey in 1799. The area is known for its stunning scenery, wildlife, and opportunities for holiday experiences for everyone. Visitors can enjoy beautiful historic houses and gardens or take a walk on one of the many trails. Many artists, poets, and writers have been inspired by the area, and it is a popular tourist destination.