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.
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.
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 could also take a break half-way around to stop by the bird hide and see what's visiting the feeding station.
This slightly more challenging trail takes you into the deepest part of the gorge on a 45-minute circular one-way route. The paths can be steep, narrow and slippery in places. There the seven narrow steps, with a handrail but no barrier, that take you into the Devil's Cauldron pothole on a platform over the water - however this section can be avoided. Once in the cauldron there are dripping moss-covered rock on all sides and the water roars past just below your feet.
The wild flowers really put on a show, pick up a free spotter sheet from Visitor Welcome and see how many different ones you can find. Count how many different colours you see around the gorge; make sure to breathe in all the different scents too. The wild garlic can be pretty strong, you may even smell it before you see it.
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.
Lydford Gorge is a perfect place for ticking lots of things off the list. Here are some suggestions to get you started:
Find out when Lydford Gorge is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Join us for an Easter adventure at Lydford Gorge. Discover our family-friendly trail with fun activities for you to do along the way. Complete the trail and earn your chocolate egg at the end.
Thank you to everyone who visited the places in our care during Easter 2024. Your support means we can continue to look after nature, beauty and history. Check back next year for Easter events in 2025.
Lydford Gorge is a two 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.
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.
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.
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.