Lydford Gorge – a mystical natural canyon Lydford Gorge is one of the most atmospheric and mysterious natural gorges in southwest England, known for its dramatic waterfall and forested walking trails. As you pass through dense woodland, you’ll eventually reach the 30-metre-high Devil’s Cauldron waterfall. The water rushes violently through the narrow gorge, creating a powerful, roaring presence that feels almost otherworldly. The walking track winds steeply down through the gorge, giving a real sense of adventure, while still offering moments of calm where you can take in the raw, untouched beauty of Devon’s landscape. Location: Devon, southwest England, near Tavistock Access: From London Paddington to Plymouth (about 3 hours by train), then around 1 hour by local bus Suggested visit: Half-day to full day
Lydford Gorge
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Lydford Gorge
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Lydford Gorge famous?
Lydford Gorge is England's deepest river gorge and a National Trust site known for its dramatic scenery, ancient oak woodland, and the spectacular 30-meter White Lady Waterfall. The gorge has been a tourist attraction since Victorian times and features remarkable geology carved by the River Lyd over millennia.
Can you swim at Lydford Gorge?
No. Swimming is not permitted in Lydford Gorge due to safety concerns and site conservation. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Lydford Gorge?
Dogs welcome on leads throughout the site. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Lydford Gorge free? Do you need a permit?
National Trust admission fee applies (free for NT members). Advance booking recommended during peak season. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Lydford Gorge?
National Trust car park on site with adequate capacity. Parking is free for National Trust members; non-members pay standard car park charges. Short walk from car park to gorge entrance. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Lydford Gorge?
The main waterfall trail is approximately 2.4 km / 1.5 miles as a circular loop through the gorge. There are also shorter accessible routes. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Lydford Gorge hike difficulty
Moderate. The trail involves steep steps, uneven terrain, and narrow paths along the gorge with significant elevation changes. Not suitable for wheelchairs on main route. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Lydford Gorge?
Spring and autumn (April–May, September–October) offer beautiful scenery with manageable crowds and good water flow. Winter can see closures due to weather. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Lydford Gorge
From the entrance, follow the riverside path downstream through the gorge. The route descends via steep wooden steps and boardwalks into the ravine. The trail passes the White Lady Waterfall (the main 30m cascade) partway through the loop. Continue along the gorge floor past pools and rapids, then ascend back to the entrance via the return path. The route is one-way during busy periods.
Lydford Gorge official website
Attractions near Lydford Gorge
- •Lydford Castle and Saxon town — medieval ruins in historic village adjacent to gorge
- •Dartmoor National Park — vast moorland with tors, wild ponies, and hiking trails
- •Brentor Church — dramatic hilltop church with panoramic Dartmoor views, 6 km east
- •Tavistock — historic market town with abbey ruins, 10 km southeast
- •Becky Falls — popular family-friendly waterfall attraction in woodland, 20 km east
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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