A walk at Lydford Gorge takes you into a temperate rainforest, past cascading waterfalls and fascinating rock formations. Perfect for a nature-filled family adventure.
1 mile / 1.6 km
The railway path is a mainly flat route that follows the line of the old Great Western railway to the bird hide and takes around 15 minutes. From here it can be made into a short circular walk with some narrower paths and steeper slopes through the woodland or just return the way you came to keep it simple.
On the Devil's Cauldron trail there are seven narrow steps, with a handrail but no barrier, that take you into the pothole on a platform over the water. There is an overhang above the steps so we don't recommend taking backpack child carriers down. This short section can be avoided, or the party can take it in turns to go down.
Lydford Gorge is a temperate rainforest, a habitat that is globally rare. Nearly every surface is covered with plants, moss, lichen, and liverworts. As the River Lyd and Whitelady Waterfall crash through the gorge they release moisture into the air and help to keep it lush and green. While on a walk, look out for chalkboards to learn about some of the flora and fauna in the gorge, plus try out the fun activities.
The orchard meadow at the Devil’s Cauldron entrance has space to explore and plenty of room for picnics.
Stop by the second-hand bookshop and leave us a thought or a drawing on our Comment Tree.
Thursday 17 July to Sunday 7 September, running every day between 10am and 4pm.
Free event (admission applies), booking not needed. Pick up a trail sheet from the visitor welcome team.
Follow the trail around the orchard, answering questions and playing games, to follow your own path on this temperate rainforest adventure.
Please note there's some rough ground and slopes, sorry it's not buggy friendly, dogs on leads are welcome.
Don't let rain keep you inside – being a temperate rainforest, Lydford Gorge is real adventure when it’s raining. So put on your waterproofs and get outside. There are plenty of puddles to splash in and the raindrops on the river make some mesmerising patterns. Water trickles down the rock faces and over the ferns and mosses as it makes it way to the river, creating an ever-changing soundscape as you walk through.
Try out some ‘owl ears’ to get the full effect. Cup your hands behind your ears and turn you head to intensify the different sounds around you.
We ask visitors not to swim, however tempting, as it's not safe. If something were to go wrong the area is very inaccessible. Please avoid disturbing the wildlife and special habitats of the gorge and don't go in.
Find out when Lydford Gorge is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Lydford Gorge is a three 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.
Discover where to eat and drink when visiting Lydford Gorge, what’s on the menu and the literary gems you’ll find in the second-hand bookshop.
Find out about accessibility at Lydford Gorge and how to make the most of your visit to this deep river gorge filled with rare temperate rainforest habitat.
This rugged circular walk descends into steep-sided Lydford Gorge, to the foot of the 30-metre high Whitelady Waterfall, before returning through temperate rainforest abundant with life.
Immerse yourself in the deepest part of the gorge where the River Lyd crashes through a rocky landscape, and brave the Devil's Cauldron pothole on a platform over the water.
Take a stroll along the line of the old Great Western Railway, passing through deep cuttings that have now returned to nature.
From rock pooling on beautiful beaches to exploring historic houses, there are plenty of places to enjoy a great family day out. .
Plan fresh-air activities, discover facts about nature and wildlife or learn a new skill with our suggestions for ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’.
