Why Lynton is called "Little Switzerland"
Tucked within the wild expanse of Exmoor National Park, Lynton and Lynmouth have carried the affectionate title “Little Switzerland” since the early 19th century. With their steep wooded hills, deep river valleys, and rugged coastal cliffs tumbling into the Bristol Channel, it’s easy to see why Victorian visitors drew parallels with the Alpine landscapes of Europe.
This romantic nickname isn’t just a marketing flourish; it reflects a genuine sense of wonder experienced by early tourists. Writers and artists travelling through the region were struck by the dramatic scenery, inspiring comparisons to the Switzerland they knew from Grand Tours and illustrated books.
The Allure of “Little Switzerland”
When poet Robert Southey visited in 1799, he compared the steep, forested slopes and craggy coastline to Swiss landscapes, planting the seed of the “Little Switzerland” reputation. As the Victorian passion for travel blossomed, Lynton and Lynmouth became a magnet for adventurers, writers, and nature lovers seeking dramatic beauty closer to home.
The area’s defining features quickly became celebrated:
Towering cliffs overlooking the Bristol Channel
Lush wooded valleys, notably the East Lyn River Valley
Watersmeet, where rivers meet in a deep, fern-filled ravine
The Valley of Rocks with its jagged stone outcrops
Historic cliff railway linking Lynton and Lynmouth
Feral goats roaming the rocky landscape
Charming Victorian architecture in both villages
Easy access to the South West Coast Path & Exmoor
The combination of coastal drama and inland tranquility creates a landscape unlike anywhere else in England.
Victorian Travel and the Rise of Lynton & Lynmouth
During the 19th century, tourism boomed thanks to expanding railway networks and an increased appetite for scenic exploration. Lynton and Lynmouth became fashionable destinations, offering an exotic-feeling escape without leaving Britain. Wealthy visitors built elegant villas along the steep hillsides, many of which survive today as hotels and guesthouses.
The construction of the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway in 1890, a remarkable feat of Victorian engineering powered entirely by water, linked the twin villages more easily and added to their appeal. Even today, riding the cliff railway is a highlight for visitors, offering sweeping coastal views during the ascent and descent.
Nature at its Most Dramatic
Beyond its historical allure, Lynton and Lynmouth are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Valley of Rocks, just a short walk from Lynton, presents a surreal landscape of jagged limestone formations overlooking the sea. Feral goats, descendants of animals introduced in the Victorian era, graze the rocky outcrops, adding to the sense of ancient wilderness.
Watersmeet, managed by the National Trust, offers deep wooded gorges, tumbling waterfalls, and tranquil riverside paths. This natural meeting point of rivers and pathways is one of Exmoor’s most beloved walking spots, particularly in spring and early autumn when the woods glow with colour.
Echoes of Switzerland in Every Season
While summer brings the highest number of visitors, Lynton and Lynmouth’s beauty transcends seasons. Autumn cloaks the valleys in rich golds and reds; winter mists create a ghostly, romantic atmosphere across the hills; spring carpets the woods with bluebells and fresh green leaves.
Each season reveals a new side to this “Little Switzerland,” offering year-round opportunities for walking, wildlife watching, photography, and quiet contemplation.
Plan Your Visit to Little Switzerland
Today, the “Little Switzerland” name remains more than a historic curiosity — it encapsulates the spirit of Lynton and Lynmouth. Whether you’re riding the cliff railway, walking the dramatic coast paths, or simply gazing out over the East Lyn River, you’ll sense the timeless beauty that enchanted Victorian explorers.
Local businesses, from cosy cafes to historic inns, embrace this rich heritage while offering modern hospitality. A visit here isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about stepping into a landscape that continues to inspire awe, just as it did more than two centuries ago.
