
Discover more at Lydford Gorge
Find out when Lydford Gorge is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
We love dogs at Lydford Gorge, and you’re welcome to bring them with you as you explore its dramatic landscape. We do ask for dogs to be kept on a short lead for their own safety, the safety of other visitors, and to protect the delicate wildlife and habitats of the gorge.
We’ve been working on making it easier for you to find out how dog-friendly your visit will be before you and your four-legged friend arrive. To help with this, we've created a new pawprint rating system and given all the places in our care a rating. You can find this information in the National Trust members’ handbook.
Lydford Gorge is a one pawprint rated place.
Dogs are very welcome at Lydford Gorge. However, if they do not enjoy being on the lead then this may not be the best place for a walk.
Please keep dogs on a short lead at all times and out of the river.
The paths in the gorge can be narrow, with steep drops and no barriers, next to a fast-flowing river. There are steep slopes, long flights of rugged steps and uneven surfaces which can be slippery even when dry.
Wandering off the path can cause loose rocks to fall, also there are old mine workings and delicate wildlife habitats that are best left undisturbed.
Over winter Lydford Gorge is home to visiting woodcock. These rare, ground-dwelling birds are nocturnal, so during the day they hide in the undergrowth and can be easily disturbed by a friendly dog.
Lydford Gorge is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), with some rare moss and lichen species that grow on rock faces and the banks of the river. By keeping your dog out of the river you can help protect these delicate rare plants; and also prevent the pesticides used in flea treatments getting into the water and affecting the wildlife that live there.
Water bowls can be found outside visitor welcome (closed).
Dog poo bins are located at the start of the walking trails and further on the trail by the railway bridge.
We’ve worked with our partner Forthglade to come up with this Canine Code, which helps to make sure everyone can enjoy their day:
Find out when Lydford Gorge is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
We've partnered with natural pet food maker Forthglade so that you and your dog can get even more out of the special places we care for.
Discover the best places for a dog walk, from coastal adventures and dramatic mountains to more leisurely walks near you. Plus find information on dog-friendly cafés and read our Canine Code.
If you’re bringing your dog to the places we care for, here’s information on the Canine Code and pawprint rating system to plan your visit.
After a good dog walk in the fresh air, find a place to sit and relax with your dog in a dog-friendly café.
We've partnered with natural pet food maker Forthglade to create the Dogs Welcome project, helping you and your dog to get the most out of the places in our care.
Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature and escape the hustle and bustle by enjoying a winter woodland walk to see the towering Whitelady Waterfall at Lydford Gorge
Discover where to eat when visiting Lydford Gorge, how to find the tea-room, what’s on the menu and what treats you’ll find in the second-hand bookshop.
Discover the history of Lydford Gorge from its earliest fossil formations and its importance to the Anglo Saxons and Vikings, to how it influenced the Picturesque and inspired artists.
There are plenty of dog-friendly spots to keep tails wagging in Devon. Your dog can enjoy splashing with all four paws in the sea or sniffing out treasure on a woodland walk.