The deepest river gorge in the South West, with 30m high waterfall
Geology, human history and the natural world have all helped shape Lydford Gorge into what it is today.
The gorge is an amazing place to visit at any time of the year. The wildlife, river, plants and trees provide a stunning show each and every day.
There are various routes available to hike down to the Whitelady Waterfall, allow around an hour to complete a circular walk. The zig zag yellow path will take you straight to the waterfall down more than 200 steps. The sloped yellow path takes a gentler route along the river before bringing you to the waterfall. There is also a path along the route of the old railway line, which has a bird hide and is a good place to rest in winter and see what wildlife is about.
Dippers and wagtails can be seen flying low over the river, while woodland birds can be spotted darting about in the trees.
The flora in the gorge changes with the seasons. In winter look out for views that are hidden in summer by the leaves. On a frosty morning, mists can veil the waterfall making it magical.
The gorge is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its geology, flora and fauna. Please respect the habitats in the gorge by taking only photographs and leaving only footprints.
| Gift Aid | Standard | |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | £11.70 | £10.50 |
| Child | £5.85 | £5.25 |
| Family | £29.25 | £26.25 |
| Family one adult | £17.55 | £15.75 |
|
Group Adult
Minimum group size 15
|
N/A | £9.90 |
|
Group Child
Minimum group size 15
|
N/A | £4.90 |
Most of our places run the Gift Aid on Entry scheme at their admission points.
Under this scheme, if you're not a member you have the choice of two entry tickets:
If the place runs Gift Aid on Entry, we'll offer you a clear choice between the Gift Aid Admission prices and the Standard Admission prices at the admission point. It's entirely up to you which ticket you choose.
Gift Aid Admission includes a 10 per cent or more voluntary donation. Gift Aid Admissions let us reclaim tax on the whole amount paid - an extra 25 per cent - potentially a very significant boost to our places' funds.
An extra £1 paid under the scheme can be worth over £3 to the National Trust as shown below:
| Gift Aid | Standard | |
|---|---|---|
| Amount paid by visitor | £11.00 | £10.00 |
| Tax refund from Government* | £2.75 | £0.00 |
| Total received by the National Trust | £13.75 | £10.00 |
*Gift Aid Admissions let us reclaim tax on the whole amount paid - an extra 25 per cent - potentially a very significant boost to our places' funds.
Free entry to National Trust members.
Reduced rate November to February when only the waterfall trails are open.
Group admission requires pre-booking through lydfordgorge@nationaltrust.org.uk
Last entry to gorge is 30 minutes before closing time. The toilets are only open when the tea-room is open.
