The Rising Sun
Lynmouth harbour, Exmoor · Inn
View on Google MapsPhoto: The Rising Sun
A 14th-century thatched smugglers' inn on Lynmouth harbour, with 12 rooms, a candlelit restaurant and Exmoor rising behind it.
What's nearby
- Exmoor National Park Centre, Lynmouth next door
- The Bake House next door
- Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway next door
- Rock House next door
Distances as the crow flies, via Google
Photos
Photos via Google
About The Rising Sun
The Rising Sun sits directly on the harbour at Lynmouth, where the East and West Lyn rivers meet the sea on the north Devon coast. Parts of the building date from the 14th century and it is still thatched, with uneven floors, low beams and small windows looking straight out at the boats. Exmoor National Park begins immediately behind, and the wooded cliffs above the village are among the steepest in England.
Accommodation runs to twelve rooms plus a separate cottage. Six of the rooms face the sea and command a premium; the six standard rooms are smaller and set at the back, with either a shower or a bath with shower attachment, and can be booked for single occupancy. The cottage, reputed to be where Shelley honeymooned in 1812, has a double bedroom, a sitting room and a small private garden, and is the room most guests ask for first. Rooms are traditionally furnished rather than boutique, and the building's age shows in the floor levels.
The restaurant is the inn's main draw and was named Devon's best destination pub in the 2024 Muddy Awards. Dinner is served by candlelight and leans on local produce, including Exmoor game in season and Lynmouth lobster when it is landed. The bar serves West Country ales and is used by villagers as well as guests, so it can be lively in the evening.
It suits walkers above all: the South West Coast Path runs through the village, the Valley of Rocks is a short walk west, and Watersmeet is a well-known riverside route inland. The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, a water-powered funicular from 1890, connects the harbour with the town above. Parking in Lynmouth is limited and the inn's arrangements should be checked when booking.
What guests say
Excellent staff. Seemed somewhat aloof when we arrived to ask about check-in but we warmed to them quickly Our room (10) was well positioned for us with having a dog but the paintwork was very shabby, making the room seem rather tired. We also feel that the storage cupboard could be better fitted as a wardrobe with spare bedding, whilst being available on request, not being stoned in the room. The food was excellent with a reasonable GF range (I am coeliac) but I was disappointed that there was not even a bottled bitter/IPA offering. Overall we have really enjoyed our stay at the Rising Sun. It's a place we have been visiting frequently over the last 5 decades and often recommend it to friends and family members
2 months ago · via Google
Thoroughly enjoyed our stay. I was a bit disappointed in the room on first entering, but it's charm grew on me. Our sea view room was small, but comfortable (the double bed was a bit short for my husband). Also, there was a rolltop, clawfoot bath (personally, I would prefer a shower - but that is a minor point, really - unless mobility is an issue). Bedding and towels were good quality. The sloping floor showed the antiquity of the building - a real sense of history throughout the hotel. The sea view room has a window seat to soak up the delightful setting - and watch the sun rise, if you want to get up early enough (I almost did!) We didn't have an evening meal at the hotel, but enjoyed a glass of wine in the bar and noticed a great range of beers. Breakfast was lovely - especially the homemade granola.
2 months ago · via Google
Myself and my wife stayed at the Rising Sun in Lynmouth from the 19th-21st of June 2026 for a weekend break. Our room was very nice, a nice balance of Louis xv styled furniture and modern sophisticated decor. The staff are superb but without doubt the highest praise has to go to the chef. The taste and balance of the gastronomic creations were just superb, truly delicious. As for the setting, pure magic.
a month ago · via Google
A fabulous location overlooking the harbour. Quite a steep slope to get to our room but fine for us. Large room with a very comfy bed and a sofa with a gorgeous view. Breakfast was lovely and the staff were great.
a month ago · via Google
Guests mention this hotel offers comfortable, clean rooms with stunning sea or harbor views, and many highlight the delicious and varied food, including excellent breakfasts and Sunday roasts. They also frequently praise the friendly, helpful, and attentive staff, noting the welcoming and cozy atmosphere of the historic building.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Harbourside, Lynmouth, EX35 6EG Get directions
- Property type
- Inn
- Location
- Lynmouth harbour, Exmoor
- Star rating
- 3 star
- Guest score
- 8.9 / 10 (690 reviews)
- Prices from
- £130 per night
- Good for children
- Yes
- Destination
- Devon