Your 3 Day Itinerary for Exploring Lynton and Lynmouth

How to spend 3 days in Lynton and Lynmouth

6 Minute Read | by Naomi, Marketing Manager, Coast And Country Parks.

When visiting Lynton and Lynmouth, nestled on the stunning North Devon coast and gateway to Exmoor National Park, don’t miss out on the best bits. This guide will help you explore the two villages, known as ‘Little Switzerland’ for their dramatic landscapes, with a perfect itinerary for your stay. North Devon’s twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth offer one of the most dramatic and enchanting landscapes in the South West. From the historic Cliff Railway to the Valley of Rocks, secluded coves, waterfalls, and breathtaking clifftop trails, this corner of Devon blends coastal charm with deep countryside calm.

Whether you’re sampling local cream teas, exploring Exmoor’s rich heritage, or setting out on scenic adventures straight from your doorstep, our 3-day itinerary helps you make the very most of your stay while enjoying the peaceful surroundings of Lynmouth Holiday Retreat.

A quick local’s guide to the Perfect North Devon Itinerary

If you’re only here for a quick visit, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the highlights. We’ll guide you through the perfect itinerary for your stay with top places to visit, where to eat, and what you simply cannot miss when exploring this beautiful part of the North Devon coast.

Here’s how to spend the perfect long weekend in Lynton and Lynmouth according to a local…

Day 1 Morning – Settle In and chill out

Arrive at Lynmouth Holiday Retreat reception, chat to the friendly team about amenities, local walks, and get your bearings for exploring North Devon.
Get checked in, unpack, and settle into your accommodation, whether camping, glamping, or in award-winning self-catering holiday caravans with luxury hot tubs overlooking stunning views of Lynmouth Bay and the Lyn Valley.
Explore the retreat grounds and enjoy the incredible views from pretty much anywhere around the site.
Jump into your hot tub, hot and ready for arrival from 4pm (if your accommodation includes this).

Day 1 Evening – Catch the Sunset at the Valley of Rocks

Drive down to Lynmouth seafront and pick up dinner from the Esplanade Fish Chip Bar, renowned for some of the best fish and chips in the UK. Enjoy your meal al fresco on the Lynmouth Sea Wall or bring it back to your accommodation.
Catch the sunset from the top of the Valley of Rocks, a dramatic dry valley famous for its rugged coastline, breathtaking views, and feral goats. If there’s no sunset, simply take in the stunning coastal views or try to spot the wild goats that roam there.
Take in the dark skies and star watch – Exmoor National Park is an International Dark Sky Reserve, making it perfect for clear night skies. Guests are kindly asked to turn off external lights after 10pm to preserve the tranquillity.

Day 2 Morning – Explore the local area

Start your day with fresh coffee and delicious pastries from reception or a local café.
Lace up your walking shoes and take the scenic riverside walk along the East Lyn River from Lynmouth to Watersmeet House, a National Trust property nestled where the East Lyn River meets Hoar Oak Water.
Stop for a Devon cream tea in the tea garden at Watersmeet House or enjoy your own picnic surrounded by stunning scenery.
Continue your riverside walk down into Lynmouth, exploring the harbour, independent shops, and historic landmarks such as the Rhenish Tower.

Day 2 Afternoon/Evening – Ride the Cliff Railway

Take the famous Lynmouth Cliff Railway, the world’s highest and steepest water-powered railway, up to Lynton. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Bristol Channel and the North Devon coast during the short ride.
Wander around the quaint town of Lynton with its narrow streets and Victorian architecture. Pop into Charlie Friday’s café for a coffee and award-winning cakes.
Take in the incredible views across Lynmouth Bay and the rolling hills beyond.
For the return journey, either take the steep walk back up to the retreat or call Lyn Valley Taxi for a lift.
In the evening, dine at one of the local favourites such as Nartnapa Thai, Blue Ball Inn, The Vanilla Pod, or the historic The Rising Sun in Lynmouth.

Day 3 – A brunch and beach kind of day

Wake up slowly and pick up locally sourced ingredients from reception or the nearby butcher in Lynton to prepare a traditional full English breakfast.
Drive to Woolacombe Beach, a dog-friendly beach all year round, perfect for rock pooling, surfing, bodyboarding, or simply relaxing with a book or podcast.
For lunch, grab some pasties for an easy, tasty bite.
Explore the surrounding area, including a short walk to the more secluded Barricane Beach.

Day 3 Evening – Winding down at the Retreat

Enjoy sundowner refreshments and light bites at Brundles Bar or head back to Lynton and Lynmouth for dinner.
Back at Lynmouth Holiday Retreat, relax in your hot tub at sundown or enjoy family games and a BBQ under the stars.
Keep an eye on Lynmouth Holiday Retreat’s Facebook page for food truck offerings and local events during your stay.

Day 4 – Time to check out…

It’s not goodbye, just see you again soon!

Check out by 10am unless a late checkout has been arranged.
If your route home takes you via Exford, try to spot the famous Exmoor ponies or red deer.
Consider exploring more of Exmoor National Park, such as visiting Dunkery Beacon, the highest point on Exmoor, to enjoy panoramic views of the rolling hills and rugged coastline.
Share your photos and experiences with the Lynmouth Holiday Retreat community – they’d love to hear about your perfect trip.
Safe journey home, and we hope to see you again soon!

Book Your North Devon Escape

Lynmouth Holiday Retreat celebrates the enchanting history, natural beauty, and varied landscapes at the heart of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Offering a luxury selection of modern self-catering holiday caravans with hot tubs overlooking stunning views over Lynmouth Bay and the Lyn Valley, the accommodation provides direct access to walking trails along the South West Coast Path and the East Lyn River.

Whether you prefer camping under the stars or glamping in heated pods, Lynmouth Holiday Retreat is the perfect destination for nature lovers, families, and couples seeking a peaceful getaway on the North Devon coast.

Explore the full range of hot tub holiday accommodation and camping options at Lynmouth Holiday Retreat here.

Camping and Glamping in Nature at Lynmouth Holiday Retreat

Experience nature’s paradise with wildlife and breathtaking scenery all around. Wake up to the smell of fresh coffee and pastries from the local produce shop, and enjoy cooking with your own BBQ or camping stove. Camping around Lynton and Lynmouth is a sustainable way to holiday and a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the great outdoors of Exmoor National Park.

For those wanting a touch more comfort, heated glamping pods offer a cosy alternative without the hassle of pitching a tent.

Check out all glamping and camping options at Lynmouth Holiday Retreat here.