Walking at Lydford Gorge

This steep-sided river gorge nestled on the western edge of Dartmoor has been drawing visitors in search of the picturesque since Victorian times.

A visitor walking the river path at Lydford Gorge, Devon
Lydford Gorge   Devon

Lydford Gorge River trail

Explore the high woodland and captivating River Lyd. Take in the towering Whitelady Waterfall and crashing white water of Tunnel Falls. Takes about 2 hours on challenging terrain with narrow, slippery paths, high drops and uneven steps - sturdy footwear is essential.

Adventure along the River Lyd
Whitelady Waterfall, Lydford, Devon
Lydford Gorge   Devon

Lydford Gorge Waterfall trail

Descend into the gorge to find the towering Whitelady Waterfall. The walk takes around an hour on mostly good paths with some uneven steps and steep sections.

Discover the Waterfall trail
The railway path to the bird hide, Lydford Gorge, Devon
Lydford Gorge   Devon

Lydford Gorge railway path

Take an easy stroll along the line of the old Great Western Railway. Takes around 30 minutes but leave time to spot the woodland birds from the hide.

Stroll along the railway path
The damaged Devil's Cauldron viewing platform at Lydford Gorge
Lydford Gorge   Devon

The Devil's Cauldron viewing platform and trail are still closed.

Work to repair the viewing platform will unfortunately take longer than expected and the structure will need surveying before it can be reopened.

Lydford Gorge
Poppy the dog on the lead at Lydford Gorge
Lydford Gorge   Devon

Visiting Lydford Gorge with your dog

Dogs are very welcome at Lydford Gorge. We do ask that they are kept on a lead at all times.

Visit with your four-legged friends
The Whitelady Waterfall flowing into a pool below
Lydford Gorge   Devon

Winter opening

From Monday 1 November 2021 only the Waterfall trail will be open. The rest of the gorge is shut every winter for essential safety and maintenance work. The full gorge will hopefully reopen in March 2022.