The Rising Sun

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.