Access for All
At Exmoor Cliff Retreat, we believe hospitality should feel welcoming, reassuring and thoughtful for every guest.
Every effort has been made to adapt Exmoor Cliff Retreat, within the constraints of its historic Victorian architecture and hillside setting, to be as accessible and comfortable as possible for guests with a range of mobility, sensory and cognitive needs.
Exmoor’s dramatic North Devon coastline is part of what makes this area so special, though its steep terrain and historic villages can naturally present certain challenges when choosing a destination for a holiday or short break. This guide has been created to help guests make an informed and comfortable decision before booking.
Approach & External Area
The main roads leading into Lynton are dual-lane roads, though some sections can feel narrow. Many surrounding Exmoor roads are single-track with passing places, which may be more challenging for larger vehicles.
Lynton itself is perched high above Lynmouth on a dramatic cliffside setting, with steep inclines and hilly terrain throughout the village and surrounding area. Regardless of age or ability, Lynton and Lynmouth warmly welcome visitors from all walks of life.
Due to the historic nature of Exmoor Cliff Retreat and the local landscape, this guide is intended to provide clear and honest information before booking.
Guests may wish to explore the area virtually before arrival via Google Street View:
Lynton Town Hall – Google Street View
Sinai Hill – Google Street View
Exmoor Cliff Retreat is approached from the centre of the Old Village via Sinai Hill – a 200m road with an approximate 25% gradient. Passing places are available along the route. The house is situated on the left-hand side and opens onto a relatively level 60m private driveway with parking for six guest vehicles and a dedicated turning area.
Assistance Dogs Welcome
While Exmoor Cliff Retreat operates a strict no-pets policy, registered assistance dogs are always warmly welcomed.
Many guests rely on assistance dogs for daily independence and support, including for sight impairments, hearing loss, epilepsy, diabetes and mobility assistance.
Advance notice is kindly requested so that appropriate arrangements can be made in advance of arrival.
Car Parking & Accessibility Space
A tarmacked guest car park is located directly at the front of the building.
To the left of the entrance, a specifically marked accessibility parking space is available and should be reserved in advance where possible. For ease of access, vehicles should be parked within the white lines and facing outward.
Larger vehicles and SUVs may find it easier to park outside the main gate or at the front of the building.
We are always very happy to assist with luggage on arrival and departure.
Building Entrance
Originally designed as a Victorian family home, Exmoor Cliff Retreat was not purpose-built as a hotel.
The main entrance is accessed via: – Three stone steps with handrails, – A turning slab, – Three further shallow steps with handrails, – Two final steps into the house
Due to the age and historic character of the property, step-free access and lift access are unfortunately unavailable.
Ground Floor
The main public areas – including the Sitting Room, Drawing Room, Devon Gin Bar and Conservatory Dining Room – are all situated on the ground floor level.
A guest WC is also available on the ground floor just below the main staircase.
Due to the historic layout of the building, no ground-floor bedrooms are available.
Staircase & Landings
The first floor is accessed via 21 steps: – An initial flight of 11 steps, – A landing, – 3 further steps, – Another landing, – A final flight of 7 steps leading to Hollerday, Myrtleberry, Summerhouse and Countisbury
The second floor is accessed via 16 additional steps from the first-floor landing: – A flight of 6 steps, – A landing, – 3 additional steps, – Another landing, – A final flight of 7 steps leading to Kipscombe and The Cleaves
As with many Victorian properties, staircases and corridors vary slightly in width and character throughout the house.
Bedrooms with Accessibility Accessories
A range of accessories is available to enhance comfort and accessibility during a stay.
These include:
– Dual alarm clock with vibrating pad and large display
– Smart TVs with text-to-speech, zoom and subtitle functionality
– Alexa smart speakers with customisable accessibility features
– Smart tablets with voice assistant controls, subtitles and enhanced dexterity features
– Magnifying glass for guests with visual impairments
We are always pleased to discuss individual requirements before arrival wherever possible.
Bedroom Layout
First Floor
Four bedrooms are located on the first floor: – Hollerday, – Myrtleberry, – Summerhouse, – Countisbury
All feature en-suite bathrooms.
Three rooms contain a bath with overhead shower, while Hollerday has a shower cubicle with an approximate 25cm step into the shower.
Second Floor
Two bedrooms are located on the second floor: – The Cleaves, – Kipscombe
The Cleaves features a large walk-in shower with an approximate 20cm step into the shower area.
Kipscombe contains a shower cubicle with an approximate 25cm step.
Allergies
All bedding throughout Exmoor Cliff Retreat is microfibre and allergen-conscious, including:
– Pillows, – Duvets, – Mattress protectors, – Mattress toppers
Each bedroom is fitted with a sensitive smoke detector featuring a loud audible alarm system.
Bathrooms with Accessibility Accessories
All bathrooms include automatic sensor night lighting for additional comfort during the night.
A portable grab bar is available for bathrooms with baths, and a Devilbiss Healthcare rotating bath and shower stool can also be provided upon request.
Bathroom details
✔ Myrtleberry & Summerhouse
Windowless bathrooms with bath and overhead shower
✔ Countisbury
Rear-facing window with bath and overhead shower
✔ Hollerday
Rear-facing window with shower cubicle and 6″ high shower tray
✔ The Cleaves
Windowless bathroom with large walk-in shower and 4″ high shower tray
✔ Kipscombe
Compact windowless bathroom with 6″ high shower tray
Dementia-Friendly Commitment
As a Dementia Friends UK supporter, every effort has been made to provide a reassuring, understanding and comfortable environment for guests living with dementia, together with their families and carers.
Support may include:
– Assistance with travel planning and arrangements
– Reserved seating and breakfast table preferences
– Information regarding dementia-friendly local businesses
– Clearly identifiable staff name badges
– Calm, respectful and considerate communication
– Awareness of individual needs without assumptions
– Guidance regarding safety and evacuation procedures
Quiet Room
A quieter private space can be arranged using the small bar area if required.
This warm and ambient room, featuring high-backed seating, can provide a calm retreat for guests who may feel overwhelmed by noise or distractions.
The Sonos music system volume can also be adjusted to create a quieter environment if preferred.
Breakfast & Ground Floor WC Accessibility
Breakfast is served in the Orangery Conservatory, a bright and airy dining space overlooking the coastline. The room is carpeted and includes cooling fans and adjustable window blinds for comfort. While standard dining chairs do not have arms, an alternative chair with arms can be provided upon request. Menus are available in larger print, and an audio recording of the breakfast menu is also available.
Breakfast service is fully à la carte, with all dishes and refreshments served directly to the table. A guest WC is located on the ground floor just below the main staircase.
Food Allergies & Intolerances
A wide range of dietary requirements and food intolerances can be catered for with advance notice wherever possible. Detailed allergen and preparation information for breakfast dishes is available upon request
Listen to the Exmoor Cliff Retreat award-winning breakfast podcast
Flowers
Fresh flowers are displayed throughout the property as part of the overall atmosphere and guest experience. For guests with significant pollen allergies or sensitivities, arrangements can usually be adjusted with advance notice.
Outside Areas and Smoking
A designated smoking area is available on the garden terrace and includes seating, an ashtray and soft ambient outdoor lighting.
Emergency Procedures
A monitored fire alarm and emergency lighting system are installed throughout the property. Testing takes place twice weekly on Tuesdays and Saturdays, generally while guests are out of the building. Emergency contact information – including details for local doctors, dentists and pharmacies – is included within the online guest information folder.
For urgent medical requirements, NHS 111 can arrange out-of-hours prescriptions where appropriate.
General
Traffic Information
National Highways traffic updates are available online.
Public Transport Options
Information regarding buses, rail services, airports and local taxis is available within our transport guide.
Tariff
Bedroom rates and seasonal pricing are available on our Stay Rates page.
Directions to Exmoor Cliff Retreat
Detailed directions are available online prior to arrival.
Booking Terms and Cancellation Policy
Guests are provided with keys for both the front entrance and their bedroom during their stay. Keys should always be carried when leaving the property.
Complimentary fibre-fast Wi-Fi is available throughout all bedrooms and public areas. Guests can connect via QR code after check-in or by using the supplied password.
Mobile phone signal strength can occasionally be challenging in North Devon, though the strongest signal is generally found in the Drawing Room, Garden Terrace and front-facing areas of the property.
All corridors and bedrooms are well lit, with adjustable task lighting available in all guest bedrooms.
Each room also includes:
– Magnifying mirrors
– Luggage racks
– Bedside lighting controls for convenience
Where practical, some furniture may be repositioned to improve accessibility and ease of movement.
Guest Information Folders are available digitally in larger print, with printed copies available upon request.
Although Exmoor Cliff Retreat features a variety of modern technology and smart systems, ease of use has always been carefully considered. Lighting controls, showers, televisions and remote controls have been selected to remain as intuitive and user-friendly as possible.
Clear instructions are included within the online Guest Information Folder and are also explained during check-in. Robert and Richard are usually nearby and always very happy to assist with any questions.
Whatever your age, ability or background, Lynton and Lynmouth warmly welcome everyone.
Further local accessibility information can also be found via Visit Lynton & Lynmouth.
Sensory Considerations
Fragrances
Subtle fragrance diffusers are used throughout selected public areas, including the entrance lobby, Drawing Room, Sitting Room and Devon Gin Bar, contributing to the overall atmosphere of the house.
Sounds
Lynton is generally peaceful and quiet in atmosphere, though occasional external sounds may naturally be heard, including:
– Coaches and larger vehicles passing through the village
– Nearby school playground activity during term-time
– Church bells on Tuesdays and Sundays
– Birdsong from surrounding woodland and coastline
– Heating systems activating during cooler mornings and evenings
Low-volume Sonos music may also be played within selected public areas including the lounge, dining room and bar.
Website Accessibility
The website includes an accessibility icon allowing guests to enlarge text and improve readability.
Alternatively, text size can also be adjusted manually:
Windows
Press Ctrl + + to zoom in
Press Ctrl + – to zoom out
Mac
Press Cmd + + to zoom in
Press Cmd + – to zoom out
Questions
Should you have any questions, require further information, or wish to discuss any accessibility requirements before booking, please do not hesitate to contact Robert or Richard directly.
Telephone: 01598 752235
Email: info@exmoorcliffretreat.com
Booking
