01752 744010 
Some walks you drive to. This one starts at the park gate.
The Watersmeet circular walk is our favourite way to see the Lyn Valley, and guests at Lynmouth Holiday Retreat can step straight onto it. In one loop you get moorland-edge views over the Bristol Channel, an Iron Age hillfort, a steep wooded descent and a riverside stroll all the way down to the sea.
Halfway round sits Watersmeet, where two rivers join beneath ancient oaks and the National Trust tea rooms wait with a cream tea. Then it’s down through the gorge to Lynmouth’s harbour, cafés and pubs.
It’s a proper Exmoor walk, with some steep sections and a few narrow stretches. But take it steady and it’s one of the most rewarding walks near Lynton and Lynmouth. Here’s everything you need, from what to pack to how to get back up the hill.
Distance
Approx. 6.6 miles (10.6 km) circular walk
Time
Allow 4 hours including a lunch stop
Dogs
Dog-friendly, but keep them close where the path has drops
Difficulty
Medium to high: steep descents, some narrow and exposed paths
Summerhouse Lane to the wood edge
Leave the Lynmouth Holiday Retreat coastal path gate and turn left, heading north down Summerhouse Lane. At the junction keep left, and follow the lane as it drops between high hedgebanks.
Where the tarmac ends, carry straight on across the open field, keeping to the left, towards the wooded Lyn Valley, with Lyn Bay opening up ahead. On a clear day the views stretch over the Bristol Channel.
This stretch gets muddy after rain, so this is where good boots earn their keep. Look out for the gates and fingerposts that mark the way.
Along the East Lyn Valley edge
At the edge of the wood, go through the gate and turn right onto the well-defined path. From here, follow the signs for Watersmeet and Hillsford Bridge.
The path runs high along the valley side, with wide views up the East Lyn Valley. Below, the river tumbles through its gorge while birdsong fills the woods above.
In spring, look for bluebells and clouds of wild garlic. In autumn, the whole canopy turns copper and gold.
The path rises and falls as it goes. Some sections are narrow with a little exposure, so a head for heights helps.
Myrtlebury Iron Age enclosure
Above Watersmeet, the route passes through the Myrtlebury Iron Age enclosure. It’s a scheduled monument, with defensive earthworks dating from around 800 BC.
It’s easy to see why the spot was chosen: steep slopes guard three of its sides. At certain times of year the field is dotted with giant mushrooms, which gives it an almost otherworldly feel.
The descent to Watersmeet
Continue straight on, then turn right into thicker woodland. The zig-zag path drops steeply here, and rocks and roots get slippery in wet weather.
Take your time on this section. Walking poles make a real difference, and keep dogs close where the ground falls away beside the path.
Watersmeet and the National Trust tea rooms
At the bottom you reach Watersmeet, where the East Lyn River meets Hoar Oak Water beneath ancient oak woodland. Just upstream, small waterfalls spill between the rocks.
The National Trust tea rooms are housed in an 1830s fishing lodge. They serve light lunches, cakes and cream teas, and the garden is a lovely place to rest your legs.
The tea rooms are open from spring through autumn, so check the National Trust website for current opening hours before you set off.
The riverside walk from Watersmeet to Lynmouth
From Watersmeet, follow the East Lyn River downstream towards Lynmouth. Keep to the left-hand bank to stay close to the water, passing footbridges and small cascades under a shady canopy.
As you near the sea, the valley narrows into Glen Lyn Gorge, with more woodland and waterfalls.
The path brings you out in Lynmouth, among cafés, pubs and the little tidal harbour. It’s worth checking the tide before you choose where to sit for dinner, as the harbour looks quite different at high and low water.
Getting back to Lynmouth Holiday Retreat
There are three ways back up to the park, depending on how your legs feel…
The direct route. Cross Lyn Bridge and take the steep road straight up the hill to the retreat. It’s the quickest way, but it is a proper climb.
The scenic route. Ride the water-powered Cliff Railway up to Lynton. It has been running since 1890 and is a highlight in its own right. From the top, walk along Lynway to Lynbridge, then take the gentler road to the top of Summerhouse Hill and back to the park.
The easy route. A friendly local taxi will bring you back to the park for a fair price.
Practical tips for walking near Lynton and Lynmouth
The best time for this walk is late April through October, while the tea rooms are open. Autumn is especially lovely, as the woods turn golden and the valley goes quiet.
Whatever the season, check the forecast before you go, because Exmoor’s weather can change quickly. This landscape has deep gorges and steep valley sides, so keep children and dogs under close control near drops.
If you’re not sure the full loop is for you, the riverside path between Lynmouth and Watersmeet is gentler and just as beautiful. Walk it there and back from the harbour instead.
Our team at reception is always happy to talk you through the route before you set off.
Stay at the start of the trail
Kemacott Stargazer Geodome
Lynmouth Retreat
Kemacott is our Stargazer Geodome with sea views.
Kestrel Safari Tent
Lynmouth Retreat
Pet Friendly
Hot Tub
Views
Sleeps 5
Kestrel Safari Tent is pet friendly and sleeps up to 5 guests and 2 dogs, featuring a master double bedroom…
Lynton
Lynmouth Retreat
Sleeps 4
Hot Tub
Pet Friendly
Lynton Holiday Lodge sleeps up to 4 guests, featuring a master double bedroom with en-suite WC and a twin room.
Sea View Glamping Pods
Lynmouth Retreat
Sleeps 2
Coastal Views
Pet friendly
Our Glamping Pods are a great option if you are looking for cosy accommodation for two.
Beggars Field – Grass, Electric Camping & Campervans
Lynmouth Retreat
Views
Pet friendly
Electric hook up
9M Pitch
Our Beggars field grass pitches are spacious pitches with valley views and electric hook up. Each pitch measures approximately 9m…
FAQ: Your Lynton & Lynmouth Questions Answered….
How long is the Watersmeet circular walk from Lynmouth Holiday Retreat? It’s around 6.6 miles, depending on which return route you choose. Allow about four hours, including a stop at Watersmeet.
How difficult is the walk? It’s medium to high difficulty. There’s a steep zig-zag descent to Watersmeet, some narrow stretches along the valley edge, and a steep climb back if you take the direct road route.
Is the Watersmeet walk dog-friendly? Yes, dogs love it. Keep them close on the narrow sections and where the path has drops, and bring water for them.
Is there somewhere to eat on the walk? Yes. The National Trust tea rooms at Watersmeet serve light lunches, cakes and cream teas from spring through autumn. Lynmouth has plenty of cafés and pubs at the end of the walk.
Do I need a map? We recommend OS Explorer OL9, or download the GPX and app route linked above before you set off. Here is the routes plotaroute link.
