
Discover more at Lydford Gorge
Find out when Lydford Gorge is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
A walk at Lydford Gorge takes you into a temperate rainforest, past cascading waterfalls and fascinating rock formations. On the way try some of our favourite '50 things to do before you're 11¾' activities and get back to nature.
From Monday 30 October 2023 only the trails to Whitelady Waterfall and the bird hide are open. The rest of the gorge trails are shut every winter for safety and essential maintenance work. This can include tree work, path work and rock face inspections, so please do not pass any locked gates. We plan to reopen from Saturday 16 March 2024, although the river path will remain closed while we work to repair a section of path damaged by a landslide.
Perfect for little ones to explore as this mainly flat route follows the line of the old Great Western railway to the bird hide. From here it can be made into a short circular walk with some narrower paths and steeper slopes or just return the way you came to keep it simple.
Good for a range of ages, this circular trail takes you down into the gorge, to see the 30-meter high Whitelady Waterfall. It takes around 1 hour, over pretty good paths with some slippery bare rock, and mud in places. You can avoid the steps to make this route easier - there are over 200 uneven steps on the shorter path down to the waterfall. You could also take in the bird hide if you choose the green route to head back out of the gorge.
Lydford Gorge is a perfect place for ticking lots of things off the list. Here are some suggestions to get you started:
We plan to reopen the gorge from Saturday 16 March. This is when the visitor welcome, tea-room, second-hand bookshop, and toilets will be open again. Plus, the Devil's Cauldron walking trail and orchard meadow will be open once more to explore.
A short way off the main path you enter a dark ravine surrounded by dripping rock faces covered in mosses and ferns. Brave the narrow rock-hewn steps which take you onto a platform suspended over the water. Here the river seems to boil and it's this action and the tremendous force of the water that created this giant pothole over the centuries.
This is a great space to escape the crowds. There's plenty of space for picnics and free play. It's full of blossom during spring, insects in summer, and autumn colour as the season turns. During most school holidays there is a free family trail running too.
Find out when Lydford Gorge is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Lydford Gorge is a one pawprint rated place. Discover how to have a dog-friendly visit, including where to walk, what to be aware of and what facilities are available for your four-legged friend.
The Devil’s Cauldron tea-room and Waterfall tea-room are now closed for winter. We look forward to welcoming you back in spring 2024.
Take an easy stroll along the line of the old Great Western Railway, passing through deep cuttings that have now returned to nature.
This rugged circular walk descends into steep-sided Lydford Gorge, to the foot of the 30-metre high Whitelady Waterfall, before returning through oak woods abundant with wildlife.
The Devil’s Cauldron trail is now closed for safety and maintenance over winter. We look forward to welcoming you back in spring 2024.
From rock pooling on beautiful beaches to exploring historic houses, there are plenty of places to enjoy a great family day out. .
Fancy running free in the fresh air, learning new skills and trying new things? Grab your gear and start your adventure.