Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway

Activities

The Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway is a historic, water-powered funicular offering breathtaking coastal views whilst connecting the twin towns

Takeaway Available

Accessibility

Dog Friendly

Accessible

The multi-award winning and famous Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, opened in 1890, is the highest and steepest totally water-powered railway in the world! This working heritage railway is Grade II listed, making it the UK’s only fully water-powered railway and one of just three such examples left in the world.

The Cliff Railway connects the twin towns of Lynton and Lynmouth, providing stunning coastal views that will be the highlight of any visit. Rising 500 feet from the lower station to the cliff top, it offers a scenic and eco-friendly ride using a water-powered pulley system without electricity.

Perched on the cliff top is the Grade II listed Cliff Top Cafe, offering perhaps the best location for a Devon cream tea in the Westcountry. Visitors can also explore nearby narrow cobbled streets, independent shops, art galleries, and cafes serving the famous Devon cream tea. The railway provides access to the South West Coast Path for walks along hidden beaches, sand dunes, and rugged cliffs. It is a must-visit among north Devon attractions, the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway perfectly combines natural beauty, Victorian engineering, and local culture.

Location

Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway

Address

The Esplanade, Lynmouth EX35 6EQ, UK

What3Words ///helper.counters.micro

01598 753908

www.cliffrailwaylynton.co.uk

Driving from our parks

Lynmouth Retreat: 2.64 miles / 10 mins

Rating

★★★★★4.7

Based on 7,918 reviews

Info correct at time of publish: January 6, 2026. Always check with location before visiting.

Reviews

Sharon Willams

2 months ago

Loved the ride up and views beautiful. But it was very diffwalking back down. Its SO steep and no hand rails or such to support the very steep decline. Next time would take the ride back down. The shops are so quaint and it's very beautiful place to visit. We enjoyed it.The bay where the boats sit and the harbour are all lovely.Delicous ice cream parlours and plenty of Cafes or Pubs.

Caroline M

3 months ago

This is a treasure! There's a lovely cafe at the top that serves huge scones with jam and cream, then you board the little train to descend from Lynton down to Lynmouth. The staff are friendly and the whole experience is charming. Definitely worth a visit for all the family including doggos 😊

Louise Murfin

3 months ago

Always love a visit here. The conductor on the railway was super kind with my 3 dogs (one of whom is blind). We had a lovely day and fab pasties (ofc). Sad I didn't get to try the vegan lobster tho, maybe next year.

Alexander Kreiberg

4 months ago

Great experience and some great views around the railway.
Lining up may take some time as it is very popular, well worth s ride down the cliff to the bottom and then a nice area to walk around.
Payments are taken at the bottom when you get off if you started at the top.

T W

4 months ago

Second time here in 10 years. Great experience for the kids to ride such an old and iconic railway. Views at the top are amazing and the town is lovely too.