Coast & Country Parks Devon Devon

Our Guide to the Top Pubs in Lynton and Lynmouth – North Devon

6 -Minute Read | by Naomi at Coast And Country Parks.

Nestled on the edge of Exmoor National Park, Lynton and Lynmouth are picturesque North Devon villages blending history, adventure, and warm hospitality. Set against the dramatic North Devon coast, they’re perfect for walkers, food lovers, and those seeking authentic Devon countryside charm.

At their heart are historic pubs and inns offering a warm welcome to locals and visitors alike. Whether for a quick bite after exploring or a leisurely Sunday roast, you’ll find great pub food, seasonal dishes, and local ales. The Blue Ball Inn and Ancient Mariner showcase the area’s rich history and character.

Many pubs here are dog friendly, welcoming well-behaved pets so owners can relax and dine together. From hearty meals to lighter options, there’s something for every appetite, making these villages ideal for your North Devon adventure.

This guide focuses on handpicked standout pubs – the ones worth saving for your next visit.

Why Lynton & Lynmouth Are Perfect for a Pub-Focused North Devon Break

Lynton and Lynmouth sit as twin villages on the north devon coast, connected by the historic cliff railway and backed by dramatic Exmoor moorland. The harbour village of Lynmouth nestles beside crashing waves, while Lynton perches 500 feet above with sweeping views across the Bristol Channel.

These are quintessential English villages, set in the heart of England, known for their traditional charm and the authentic atmosphere of English countryside pubs.

These maritime themed pubs offer cosy, dog friendly spots perfect after tackling walks like Valley of Rocks or Watersmeet. There’s nothing quite like tramping back from an Exmoor hike with muddy boots, pushing open a heavy pub door, and settling by the fire with friends and a well-earned pint.

Watch our latest reel on the best pubs in Lynton and Lynmouth….

1. The Rising Sun – Lynmouth

The Rising Sun is a thatched, whitewashed inn located at the centre of Lynmouth’s harbour area, offering a central and convenient position for visitors. This historic pub traces back to the 14th century and you can feel those centuries in every uneven stone floor and low oak beam.

Inside, the olde worlde character delivers snug nooks, inglenook fireplaces, and corners perfect for sinking into after the coastal path. The food focuses on traditional pub classics and fresh Lynmouth seafood when local catches allow, paired with a rotating selection of real ales including Exmoor Gold and West Country ciders.

Tables book up fast in summer, so plan ahead. Dog friendly in the bar area, this is a great first stop when arriving in Lynmouth for sunset drinks overlooking the bay.

Harbourside, Lynmouth, EX35 6EG

2. The Blue Ball Inn – Countisbury

The blue ball inn emerges as a quintessential 13th-century stone building perched above Lynmouth on the road towards Porlock. Surrounded by open moor where wild ponies roam, the views down the sweeping valley are spectacular.

Inside, expect low-beamed ceilings, flagstone floors, and crackling fires creating a warm welcome for locals, walkers, and guests. The food shines through hearty, produce-driven menus Exmoor venison, local lamb, and generous sunday roasts. Visitors can eat hearty, locally sourced meals in a classic Exmoor setting, making it an ideal spot for those seeking an authentic dining experience.

Dog friendly throughout with a walker-friendly attitude (muddy boots genuinely welcome), making it a perfect lunch stop after a circular walk from Countisbury to Lynmouth holiday retreat.

Countisbury Hill, Lynmouth, EX35 6NE

3. The Ancient Mariner – Lynmouth

The ancient mariner stands as one of Exmoor’s most eccentric pubs. Step inside to discover an eclectic mix of nautical oddities – a full-size World War II torpedo, an octopus sculpture twisting from the ceiling, dark wood panelling evoking ship bulkheads.

The bar offers an outstanding lineup of local ales like Exmoor Fox alongside Devon ciders and regionally distilled gins. Food covers homemade pub favourites, hearty burgers, and daily specials like seafood chowder.

Family friendly and welcoming to well behaved dogs, this is where walkers exchange South West Coast Path tips over pints. The outdoor deck is ideal for sunny afternoons gazing seaward, a spot where you’ll overhear locals chatting about tide times while you plan tomorrow’s route.

The Esplanade, Lynmouth, EX35 6EG

4. Rock House Inn – Lynmouth

Rock House Inn occupies a privileged spot where the East Lyn river spills into the sea. Terraced gardens and outdoor seating command unobstructed harbour views of bobbing boats and crashing waves.

This is the spot for relaxed evenings with chilled beers or wines, listening to the river murmurs below. Inside channels classic country hotel warmth with upholstered seating around a central bar. The focus here is location over culinary ambition—light bites and bar meals with Devon beers, ciders, and wines.

Perfect for day trippers concluding a Lynmouth stroll or couples seeking a romantic sunset drink after descending on the cliff railway.

Manor Green, Lynmouth, EX35 6EN

5. The Queens – Lynton

The Queens anchors central Lynton as the locals’ go-to for reliable, hearty sustenance. The layout splits proper bar zones from dining areas accommodating families and friend groups.

The menu excels in classic British pub fare with generous portions—oversized pies, fish and chips using north devon catches, and great pub food like lasagnes and roasts. This is where you head for great food after Valley of Rocks explorations or cliff railway jaunts.

If you’re staying up in Lynton, this is perfect for an evening meal you can stroll to without tackling the harbour descent. Dog friendly with a buzzing mix of villagers and visitors—expect high repeat visit appeal.

9 Queen Street, Lynton, EX35 6AA

6. The Barque – Lynmouth

The Barque is tucked away from the main harbour front on one of Lynmouth’s most picturesque lanes. Unlike the larger hotels, this feels like a true “village local” with a warm, intimate atmosphere that makes you feel like a regular as soon as you walk in.

Inside, you’ll find a classic pub layout with a real log fire that’s a welcome sight for walkers returning from Watersmeet. The bar is a hit with real ale enthusiasts, frequently serving well-kept local brews from across Devon and Somerset.

It’s exceptionally dog-friendly (wet paws are never an issue here) and offers a more peaceful setting for a pint and a chat. If you’re looking for a traditional Exmoor pub experience without the harbour-front crowds, this is the perfect spot to stop in.

Lynmouth Street, , Lynmouth, EX35 6EH

7. The Crown – Lynton

The crown hotel building dates to the 17th century and sits in the heart of the village, close to shops and the cliff railway. The atmosphere is welcoming and sociable, with a proper bar dispensing real ales, lagers, and ciders.

Known for hospitality, this is an easy place to strike up conversation with locals or fellow walkers. Family friendly with good quality pub food—burgers, pies, steaks, seasonal dishes, and daily specials – it’s ideal for refuelling. They are very well known for their homemade pies!

A solid all-rounder if you have one night in Lynton and want somewhere with history and character. For added convenience, there is public parking available nearby, making it easy for visitors arriving by car.

11 Queen Street, Lynton (EX35 6AA)

8. Nartnapa Thai at ‘The Cottage Inn’, Lynbridge

Our Honourable mention – Nartnapa Thai perches beside the East Lyn river in wooded Lynbridge hamlet, about 1.5 miles from Lynmouth. This is where excellent Thai cuisine meets a characterful pub-style bar for pre-meal pints.

The setting feels tucked-away and special river views, surrounding woodland, fragrant curries and stir-fries using fresh Devonian produce. After a long coastal walk, few things beat a cold beer followed by aromatic Thai sharing plates.

This is a “hidden gem” but is a fairly steep walk (about 15-20 mins) up from Lynmouth or down from Lynton. A reminder to guests going from Lynmouth Holiday Retreat that if you are walking there for dinner, you might want a torch/flashlight for the walk back if it’s dark, as the wooded path is very dim!

The Cottage Inn, Lynbridge, EX35 6NR

Suggested Walking & Pub Hopping Routes Around Lynton and Lynmouth

One of the joys here is combining big Exmoor walks with well-earned pub stops. Consider these routes:

Harbour loop: Start at The Rising Sun for coffee walk out along the coast path, return via the Ancient Mariner for a rewarding evening drink.

Moor-and-sea day: Drive or hike up to The Blue Ball Inn for lunch, descend to Lynmouth for afternoon exploring, then visit The Rock House Inn for evening pints.

Lynton evening: Base yourself up in Lynton – early drink at The Crown or The Queens, then walk along to the Valley of the rocks for sunset.

Many pubs along these routes regularly host events such as live music, quizzes, or themed nights, making them lively stops for visitors.

There’s something special about boots off, sharing chips across the table, cheeks still pink from the wind. That’s the best reward!

Where to Stay:

Lynmouth Holiday Retreat is the perfect base for exploring top pubs in Lynton and Lynmouth. Whether you’re pitching up in a van or tent, up for a spot of glamping, or fancy a hot tub lodge with breathtaking views – this is your reminder to get your adventure on.

The retreat offers touring pitches for vans and motorhomes, tent sites, glamping pods, and lodges with panoramas over surrounding hills. It’s ideal for those wanting to explore, then return to a peaceful site at night.

Use it as your hub: drive or walk into the villages, spend the day hiking and pub-hopping, sample local ales at the rockford inn area nearby or head to blackmoor gate and combe martin for more adventure along the heddon valley, then return to your pitch under the stars. Save Lynmouth Holiday Retreat for your next north devon escape.

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FAQs About Pubs in Lynton and Lynmouth

Are the pubs in Lynton and Lynmouth dog friendly?

Many featured pubs welcome dogs, especially in bar areas and outside spaces. The Blue Ball Inn, The Ancient Mariner, The Crown, and The Rising Sun all have dog friendly policies. Check each venue’s latest note on restrictions in dining rooms during peak hours. Muddy boots and wet dogs are generally welcome in walker-focused areas.

Do I need to book a table at these pubs?

Booking ahead is recommended for food during Easter, summer holidays, bank holidays, and weekends – particularly at The Rising Sun, Blue Ball Inn, The Queens, and Nartnapa Thai. For drinks only, walking in is usually fine, though availability can be tight in bad weather when everyone seeks cosy indoor spots. Call ahead for larger groups or specific dietary requirements.

What are typical opening hours?

Hours vary by venue and season. Pubs generally open from late morning through late evening, but food service times are often limited – typically 12-2pm and 6-9pm with afternoon gaps. Some village pubs reduce hours in winter. Always check online before your visit, especially outside peak season.

Can I visit these pubs without a car?

Lynton and Lynmouth villages are very walkable – most pubs sit within ten minutes of each other. The Blue Ball Inn and Nartnapa Thai require short drives, uphill walks, or local bus rides from the harbour. Staying locally makes car-free pub evenings easy to plan.

Are these pubs suitable for families with children?

Most pubs welcome families, especially earlier evenings and at meal times. The Queens, The Crown, Blue Ball Inn, and Ancient Mariner offer children’s options. Aim for earlier sittings at busier spots and check availability of high chairs. Some drink-focused bars shift to an adult vibe later, so food-led restaurant options work best for dining with children.