West Lyn River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids West Lin River |
|
|---|---|
Glen Lyn Gorge
|
|
| Country | England |
| County | Somerset |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Benjamy, The Chains, Somerset, England 400 m (1,300 ft) 51°10′36″N 3°38′40″W / 51.17667°N 3.64444°W |
| River mouth | Lynmouth Devon, England 0 m (0 ft) 51°13′46″N 3°49′44″W / 51.22944°N 3.82889°W |
| Basin features | |
| Tributaries |
|
The West Lyn is a river in England. It starts high up in a wild area called Exmoor in Somerset. This river then flows down and joins another river, the East Lyn, at a town called Lynmouth in Devon.
Contents
Discover the West Lyn River
The West Lyn River is a fascinating natural feature. It flows through beautiful landscapes and has an interesting history, especially related to a big flood that happened in 1952.
Where Does the West Lyn Begin?
The West Lyn River begins its journey in the high parts of Exmoor. This area is located in the county of Somerset, England. The exact starting point is near a place called Benjamy, within an area known as The Chains.
The river starts at an elevation of about 400 meters (1,312 feet) above sea level. From there, it flows downhill, gathering water as it goes.
The River's Journey to the Sea
The West Lyn travels through the countryside before reaching its end. It eventually meets the East Lyn River in the coastal town of Lynmouth. This town is located in the county of Devon.
At Lynmouth, the river reaches sea level, meaning it has completed its journey from the high moors to the coast.
A Special Place: The Upper River
The upper parts of the West Lyn River are very important. They have been named a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means the area is protected because of its unique natural features.
The SSSI designation is due to the amazing landforms created by a huge flood in 1952. These landforms show how powerful water can be in shaping the land.
Glen Lyn Gorge: A Tourist Hotspot
As the river gets closer to Lynmouth, it flows through a beautiful area called the Glen Lyn Gorge. This gorge is a popular place for visitors.
At Glen Lyn Gorge, you can find a museum. It teaches people about the local water cycle and the history of the devastating 1952 floods. There is also a small power plant that uses the river's water to make electricity.
How the River Powers a Railway
The West Lyn River also helps power a unique railway! Water from the river is sent through pipes to generate hydroelectric power.
This power is used for the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway. This railway is a special type called a funicular railway. It works by using the weight of water to move its carriages up and down the steep cliff.
