Watersmeet is a National Trust property about two miles upstream from Lynmouth, where the Hoaroak Water joins the East Lyn River in a deep wooded gorge. The walk from Lynmouth follows the East Lyn along a well-maintained path through ancient oak woodland — it takes around 45 minutes each way, mostly flat, with the river running alongside the entire route.
The Victorian fishing lodge at the confluence (built 1832) is now a National Trust cafe and information centre, open during the main season. It's a good place to stop for lunch before heading back. The gorge is spectacularly green in late spring and early summer. After heavy rain the rivers run very fast and the sound carries through the woods.