Half-Day in Lynton: Views, Coffee & a Coastal Stroll
Your Lynton half-day itinerary for views, coffee and a gentle coastal stroll
This relaxed Lynton half-day itinerary pairs big sea views with independent cafés, a breezy cliff-top walk and the option to dip down to Lynmouth if time allows. It fits neatly into a morning or afternoon and gives you a clear, unhurried taste of both villages.
Stop 1: Lynton Town Hall & cliff-top views
(20–30 minutes)
Begin your half-day in Lynton by parking in Bottom Meadow Car Park or Cross Street Car Park. Wander along Lee Road towards the Lynton Town Hall, one of the village’s most distinctive buildings, before continuing to the former Methodist Church next door — now home to the Lyn Valley Art & Craft Centre, filled with handmade pieces by local makers and creators.
Just behind the church sits Lynton’s tiny 60-seat cinema, a quirky landmark that adds to the character of this part of the village.
Follow the road towards the Cliff Railway’s top station for your first sweeping view across Lynmouth Bay and down to the harbour. The railway links the two villages of Lynton and Lynmouth, and if you plan to ride it later, it’s worth taking a quick look at the opening times as you pass.
Stop 2: Coffee or cream tea in Lynton (30–45 minutes)
(30–45 minutes)
Take a short break in one of Lynton’s independent cafés for a relaxed coffee, light bite or an early cream tea. It’s a chance to settle into the pace of the village, warm up if needed, and enjoy a few quiet minutes before heading out towards the coast.
Here are the best places in Lynton for a Devon cream tea ...
Stop 3: North Walk – a classic Lynton coastal stroll
(60–75 minutes)
From the Cliff Railway area, follow signs for North Walk, a gentle cliff-edge route with wide, open views of the sea and the steep Exmoor coastline. The path rises and dips as it traces the hillside, with benches and small viewpoints where you can pause and take in the scenery.
Even a short stretch of North Walk feels rewarding, though after 20–25 minutes you’ll begin to see the terrain opening towards the Valley of Rocks.
If you continue into the Valley of Rocks, you can follow the main road back into Lynton, making it a circular walk. This may add another 30-40 minutes to your journey.
Wear trainers or simple walking shoes in good weather; the surface is uneven in places but manageable.
Please Note: This path may not be suitable for anyone with a fear of heights. It is notoriously steep on one side, falling away steeply into the sea.
Optional: Drop into Lynmouth for a harbour wander
(45-60 minutes)
If time allows, head down to Lynmouth for a short harbour wander. The small boats, tide-marked walls and the meeting of river and sea give this part of the walk a different texture — quieter, sheltered and easy to explore.
You can return to Lynton by riding the Cliff Railway or by taking the steep zig-zag path back up the hillside.
Stop 4: Local shops back in Lynton
(20–30 minutes)
Before you wrap up your half-day, take a few minutes to browse Lynton’s independent shops. You’ll find art, crafts, books, local produce and small galleries along the high street — a simple way to finish your visit while supporting local makers.
Optional treat: A final cream tea
If you didn’t stop earlier — or simply feel like another — a cream tea fits naturally into any part of the day here. It’s a warm, relaxed way to finish your time in the village.
Why this Lynton half-day itinerary works
This itinerary blends straightforward pleasures: sea views, cafés, gentle exploring and a glimpse of both coastal villages. It sits neatly within a morning or afternoon, giving you a sense of place without rushing, and leaves you with the atmosphere and character that make Lynton & Lynmouth so easy to return to.
Considering to stay longer? Explore the best stays in Lynton & Lynmouth:
Hotels | B&Bs & Guest Houses | Self-Catering | Campsites & Caravan Parks
To learn more about the Exmoor National Park visit the official Exmoor National Park website.
