The tranquil village of Lynmouth, where the east and west Lyn rivers converge, was devastated on 16th August 1952, following 9-inches of rain which fell on Exmoor high above the village. Overnight the rivers rose by over 20ft and swept away several houses. Twenty-eight people were lost.

The twin villages of Lynmouth and Lynton are affectionately known as Little Switzerland due to the hilly nature of the area surrounding them.