South West - Devon

This historic water powered Victorian railway opened in 1890 and has connected the twin towns of Lynton & Lynmouth ever since. The 862 feet of track rises 500 feet with an impressive gradient of 57% providing stunning views across Lynmouth Bay and the area affectionately known as ‘England’s Little Switzerland’.

This fascinating cliff lift uses only water and the weight of the passengers as its motive power, the car going down must weigh more than the one going up to make it work. Simple, yet ingenious, engineering and probably the most environmentally friendly tourist attraction in the country. The railway is a fully working listed heritage monument and remains the steepest and the highest fully water powered railway in the world. It is the UK’s only fully water powered railway and one of only three examples left in the world.

The Cliff Railway is a popular attraction for all ages and dogs are welcome too! It’s open from February to November. The Cliff Railway’s very own Cliff Top Café is at the top station perched 500ft above Lynmouth where you can enjoy spectacular views and refuel with a range of hot and cold meals, drinks and Cream Teas.