Cliff Railway marks 135 years of Victorian ingenuity

The iconic Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway is celebrating its 135th anniversary on Monday 7 April, marking more than a century of continuous service connecting the twin towns.

Construction began in 1887 and was completed within three years, funded largely by publisher Sir George Newnes. 

Shocked by the sight of horses collapsing under the strain of hauling carriages up Lynmouth Hill, Mr Newnes supported the creation of a solution powered not by animals, but by water.

The Cliff Railway officially opened on Easter Monday in 1890 and has been running ever since, only halting during the pandemic in 2020. 

Even during the two World Wars, it continued with a reduced service.

Rebecca Jackson, the railway’s commerce, events and social media coordinator, explained how the pioneering system works.

“In simple terms, the Railway runs on a balance system. The two carriages are connected by cables. Each has a water tank beneath it. The top one fills with water, the bottom lets some out to make the top heavier, and gravity does the rest. The heavier carriage descends, pulling the other up the hill. Our drivers manage the brakes and ensure a smooth, gentle ride.”

Harnessing water from a nearby river, the railway requires no engines, fuel, or electricity. Rebecca describes it as “pure genius.”

“It’s amazing that the Victorians were, in many ways, ahead of their time,” she added. “Using river water as ballast and releasing it back to the sea where it was headed anyway. It’s such a clever, sustainable design.”

ABOVE: The Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway as it stands today, still powered by water and offering stunning coastal views. Courtesy of the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway

To mark the 135th anniversary, the railway has announced a series of special events and offers throughout the year. 

On the anniversary day itself, Monday 7 April, children will travel free. 

This is a nod to the original 1890 fare, which was just one penny.

“We decided free travel for our anniversary day was more practical than charging 1p,” said Rebecca. 

“We’re very excited to be celebrating 135 years.”

When asked about the secret behind the railway’s long life, Rebecca said: “I think it’s a combination of the incredible, useful job it still does carrying passengers up and down the very steep hill, the public love of history, heritage and the chance to experience Victorian technology at its finest and our incredibly talented and dedicated team who love the railway and enjoy working on such an iconic attraction.

“Personally I think it’s an honour to be involved in keeping the railway going. It’s the link between Lynton and Lynmouth and in many ways I think it’s the beating heart of both. But I am rather biased!”

Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway – 135th Anniversary Events

Monday 7 April 135th Anniversary Day

• Free travel for children
• Celebrating the original 1 penny fare from 1890

Thursday 10 April Talk and Tour

• 2pm start
• Behind-the-scenes access, return travel and guidebook
• £15 per person
• Runs monthly: second Thursday from April to September

Friday 10 May Cliff Railway Day

• Devon’s largest Steampunk gathering
• Market stalls, Morris dancers, shanty crew, dog show, and more
• Free travel for anyone in costume (Steampunk, Victorian, Pirate, Time Traveller)

Tuesday 26 August International Dog Day

• Free travel for dogs
• Fun dog show and themed stalls

Thursday 31 October Cliff Railway Spooktakular

• Halloween evening special
• Ride the railway in the dark
• Spooky maze, special effects and staff in costume