Lynmouth Flood Memorial Hall
Remembering Resilience.
Riverside Road, Lynmouth
Tucked between the cliffs and the sea in the heart of Lynmouth, the Flood Memorial Hall offers one of the most powerful and poignant visitor experiences on the North Devon coast. More than just a museum, it stands as a lasting tribute to community strength in the face of overwhelming loss—and a meaningful stop for anyone exploring Exmoor’s coastal edge.
A Night That Changed Everything
On 15 August 1952, Lynmouth was struck by a devastating flood that reshaped the village forever. After a day of torrential rain, the East and West Lyn rivers surged beyond their banks, destroying homes, shops, bridges, and claiming 34 lives. What followed was not only a significant natural disaster but a remarkable story of recovery, resilience, and remembrance.
Inside the Memorial Hall
The Lynmouth Flood Memorial Hall sits opposite the harbour, rebuilt on the site of the original lifeboat station lost during the flood. Free to enter, the exhibition inside includes a detailed scale model of Lynmouth as it looked before the disaster, black-and-white photographs capturing the aftermath, and personal stories of those who lived through the event.
Visitors can also see a record of the buildings that were swept away or damaged, giving a haunting perspective on just how widespread the destruction was. This is local history told through the eyes of the people who lived it.
The Lifeboat Legacy
On the ground floor, the Lifeboat Exhibition tells a separate but equally compelling story: the 1899 overland launch of the Louisa lifeboat. When storm conditions prevented launch from Lynmouth, the crew undertook a 13-hour, 15-mile haul across Exmoor to Porlock Weir, saving the crew of a stricken ship. This story of sheer endurance is a testament to the village’s long tradition of courage at sea.
The Edward Nightingale Garden
Outside, recent improvements to the site have created a peaceful space for reflection. The Edward Nightingale Garden, named in honour of a long-time volunteer and RNLI stalwart, features slate benches crafted from local stone and a central planter. It’s a serene place to sit and take in views of the harbour and hills, while considering the village’s past.
Practical Visitor Info
Opening Hours: Typically open daily in season, with volunteers on hand to welcome visitors.
Admission: Free (donations appreciated).
Location: Opposite Lynmouth Harbour, just steps from the village centre.
Facilities: Includes a public water refill station installed as part of recent sustainability efforts.
Why It Matters
In a region known for its dramatic landscapes and scenic walks, the Memorial Hall offers a deeper layer of connection to place. It reminds visitors that this peaceful village once endured the unimaginable—and came together to rebuild. Whether you’re walking the South West Coast Path or browsing local shops, this short stop provides a moment of perspective that stays with you long after you’ve left.