Southcliffe B&B – a beautiful Grade-II listed Bed & breakfast
What inspired you to purchase Southcliffe B&B in Lynton, North Devon?
We first fell in love with Lynton and Lynmouth over twenty years ago and dreamed of someday living in this part of North Devon. In 2012 we decided to make our dream a reality and quit our ‘normal’ jobs, James as a graphic designer and Stuart as a landscape gardener.
The original plan was to set up a glamping site or self-catering cottages but that somehow remodelled itself. We ended up in rural Mid Wales, buying a nine bedroom guest house and with no idea what we were doing! After our initial baptism by fire, we soon learnt the ropes and built up a successful business. Nine years later, and with COVID allowing us time to reflect, we decided it was time for a change. We loved Mid Wales but we missed being in the heart of a community. We were 20 minutes to the nearest shop!
Following a long weekend in Devon, we decided Lynton was still very much in our hearts, and the search began. It didn’t take us long; our first viewing was Southcliffe, and we immediately felt it was the perfect place to call home, and welcome guests.
What makes a stay at Southcliffe so special?
Southcliffe is one of the most picturesque bed and breakfasts in Lynton. As a listed Victorian property built in the late 1800’s, it has a wealth of original features. Set over three floors, on a sunny morning the light floods in through the windows, and the front sun terrace is a lovely space to relax and take in the tranquility. The impressive wooden staircase invites you to the next two floors where we have a mixture of king, double and twin rooms. The king rooms at the front have large balconies where you can sit and take in the views over the quaint village, towards the rolling countryside of Countisbury Hill. On the top floor, The Turret Room has a vaulted ceiling, another example of the character we love so much.
One of the best things about Southcliffe is it’s location, a few minutes walk from the town centre and the stunning Valley of Rocks as well as The Famous Cliff Railway which links Lynton and Lynmouth. Hollerday Hill is directly behind us take any of the numerous paths that meander up to the summit and you are met with breathtaking coastal views.
What do you enjoy most about being the new owners of Southcliffe?
We feel so privileged to live in this part of the world, Lynton is a stunning location and Southcliffe is a very special place. Since moving here we have met so many lovely people who have become good friends. There is an excellent tourism network within Lynton and Lynmouth and businesses of all types support one another, resulting in a real community spirit. It’s also a great incentive to shop locally.
“So far we have taken great pleasure in updating the rooms at Southcliffe, keeping a traditional Victorian feel. We have more ideas and plans for Southcliffe which we are excited about sharing with our future guests.”
What are your favourite things to do in Lynton & Lynmouth?
All of our favourite things to do are catered for here in Lynton and Lynmouth. We love to walk our dog Brian and there are walks in abundance from our front door. The scenery in the this area where ‘Exmoor meets the sea‘ is truly breathtaking, and there is nothing we like to do more than to sit and lose ourselves in the views from the valley of rocks.
Dining out is another passion, and the area has so many great pubs and restaurants offering an extensive range of cuisine, we really are spoilt for choice.
Lynton and Lynmouth has a great community and it’s a pleasure to get involved in the local traditional markets, galas, regattas, festivals, raft race and outdoor theatres. Don’t get me started on the sea shanties and live music down in Lynmouth …
