Lydford Gorge is steep-sided river gorge nestled on the western edge of Dartmoor owned by the National Trust. James had heard about it from a friend at work so we decided that on our way to Cornwall we would make a detour. We drove through Dartmoor National Park and took in the stunning scenery and then found our way to the Waterfall entrance at Lydford Gorge. While here we became members of the National Trust again so that we can enjoy lots more days out over the next year.
Once we were all paid we were given a map that showed us the different trails that we could take around the gorge. We opted for the most challenging Lydford Gorge trail, adding on the Devil’s Cauldron trail as well as the other path to Tucker’s pool. So we basically covered everything while we were there. The paths were very tricky and narrow at times. Thankfully it wasn’t too wet underfoot or it would have been very slippy. The whole walk was about 5 and a half kilometres which took us around 2 and a half hours. We did stop at the Devil’s Cauldron entrance for lunch as we were all famished after the walk and we had been travelling since 4:30am… so it was a long day but thoroughly enjoyable.
What is there to see at Lydford Gorge?
Lydford Gorge is absolutely beautiful. There is so much to see as you walk along the gorge. My photos can show you far better than I can tell you so I’ll let those do the talking for now…
Luscious greens and the soothing sound of the rushing river are what you will first notice once you have got to the bottom of the hill.
The impressive 30 metres high (almost) Whitelady Waterfall is one of the highlights of the visit.
Everyone had to have their turn at a photo in front of the waterfall 😉
Posing for a photo on the rope bridge before our walk to Tucker’s Pool begins.
Uneven and slippery surfaces had to be contended with.
Such a peaceful and calm place.
Tunnel Falls is where there the river tumbles through a series of smaller cascades. There is a small tunnel to go through on the footpath above which was carved out by the Victorians. Which is why it has the name Tunnel Falls.
The climb up the wooden steps past Tunnel Falls.
I’m so close to the edge mum!
The Devil’s Cauldron. Just wow! This dramatic feature has been carved out by the river over thousands of years.
James about to go under the bridge to Tucker’s Pool.
Tucker’s Pool is a beautiful calm part of the river and where the trail ends. We stopped a while and took in the surroundings and managed to see some fish swimming around too.
Our walk at Lydford Gorge was extremely enjoyable but please bear in mind if you visit that some of the paths are very uneven, slippy and narrow. There are also lots of steps and steep points so it is totally unsuitable for pushchairs, wheelchairs, anyone who struggles to get around and very young children. If that doesn’t include you then make sure you visit!
Useful Information:
There are two entrances at Lydford Gorge, the Waterfall entrance and the Devil’s Cauldron entrance. Both have toilets, parking, tea rooms and picnic areas but the Devil’s Cauldron entrance has a play area for kids and a shop too. If you are wanting to just see the waterfall and not have to walk too far then make sure you use the Waterfall entrance.
Standard prices if you aren’t a National trust member are as follows:
Adult £9.40
Child £4.70
Family £23.50
For more information please visit the National Trust website.
Looking for more National Trust reviews? Make sure you check out the following posts –
What a beautiful gorge, the last gorge I visited was in Slovenia and that was just as magical as this one.
This looks like a fun trek to go on. We love nature trails and finding little waterfalls etc. This reminds me of when I lived in NZ.
This looks stunning. I love a ramble through the countryside.
We have something similar in Newcastle called Jesmond Dene, it’s so peaceful and pretty!
Katie xoxo
What lovely photos, it looks like a great place to explore. I always find waterfalls so peaceful x
What an amazing day out. It looks like there is so much to explore and that bridge looks like something from a fairy tale. We are members of the National Trust – we’ve found it definitely gives you more incentive to get out and discover new places x
This place looks amazing, definitely my kind of place to visit, the kids would love it too!
Oh this looks like a perfect for to have a walk around, the waterfall is brilliant. I love Devon, so many hidden places to explore
How beautiful. I love waterfalls. The sound is so relaxing.
This looks so peaceful and a beautiful place for a quiet walk.
we went here on the last day of our summer Devon hols, your article captures it perfectly!