The Lynton & Barnstaple Railway Bill was passed on 27 June 1895 , and the line was officially opened on 11 May 1898 . Public services started on 16 May . The Lynton & Barnstaple Railway Bill was passed on 27 June 1895 , and the line opened on 11 May 1898 with public service commencing on 16 May , connecting with trains from Waterloo on the Ilfracombe Branch Line at Barnstaple Town .