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.
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.
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 the gorge lush all year.
In 997 the Vikings advanced on Lydford in search of plunder. Follow the trail around the around the orchard to learn how they fared on this family-friendly trail.
Running daily, between 10am and 3pm, from Wednesday 8 October to Sunday 2 November. This is a free, paperless trail starting at the Devil's Cauldron entrance.
Come along to help us press the apples from the orchard, and taste the tart juice. Plus pick some apples to cook up at home. Have a go on the apple shy, create a creature from apples and warm up with a mulled apple juice from the fire.
Saturday 27 September, drop in between 11am and 2pm. Free event, no booking needed.
Every winter we close for safety and essential maintenance work. From Monday 3 November 2025, only the waterfall trail and railway path will be open for walks, all other facilities - including the toilets - will be closed until we reopen in spring 2026.
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’.
