Watersmeet to Ash Bridge circular walk
A moderate circular walk suitable for all the family. The trail meanders along the banks of the East Lyn River from Watersmeet House through beautiful woodland. Look out for elusive otters in the river and herons on low-hanging branches over the water.
Slippery when wet
Suitable footwear recommended as some sections can be slippery when wet.
Total steps: 7
Total steps: 7
Start point
Watersmeet public car park, Watersmeet Road, Lynton and Lynmouth, North Devon, Devon EX35 6NT. Grid ref: SS743487
Step 1
From the car park, cross over the road and follow the steep zig-zagging path (with some steps) down to the waterfalls beside Watersmeet House.
Step 2
At the bottom of the steep path down from the road, you'll arrive at Watersmeet where the East Lyn River and Hoar Oak Water meet.
Step 3
If you're not stopping at Watersmeet House, cross the first bridge and then turn right upstream just before the second bridge. If you do stop at the tea garden, retrace your steps back over the bridge closest to Watersmeet House and turn left upstream. The East Lyn river is on your left.
Step 4
At the next fingerpost stay left, signed 'Bridleway Rockford 1.5'. Just past here is the partially restored remains of an old lime kiln on the riverbank. Chose either path around the lime kiln. The right-hand path is slightly easier and the left-hand route has steps which may be slippery when wet.
Step 5
At the fork in the track is a three-finger signpost named Barton Wood. Follow Footpath Rockford to your left, down through Barton Wood towards the river.
Step 6
When you reach Ash Bridge, cross the river and turn left at the fingerpost on the other side marked 'Watersmeet', walking downstream with the river on your left. Stay on the path back to Watersmeet House. When you reach Watersmeet House, stop for tea and cake if the house is open.
Step 7
Cross both the bridges next to Watersmeet House, back past the waterfalls and return up the steep path (with some steps) to the car park.
End point
Watersmeet public car park, Watersmeet Road, Lynton and Lynmouth, North Devon, Devon EX35 6NT. Grid ref: SS743487
Trail map
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