Lydford: Gorge, Waterfalls and Historic Paths

Lydford combines an impressive river landscape with unusually rich historical traces. At its heart is Lydford Gorge, the deepest river gorge in the South West. Its temperate rainforest is a globally rare habitat and gives this destination a distinctive character. Anyone wishing to combine nature, activity and history on a trip will find several different day-out ideas in Lydford.

Nature and paths in Lydford Gorge

One of the most striking features is Whitelady Waterfall. The cascade is 30 metres high and flows down a rock face into the River Lyd. The Lydford Gorge Waterfall Trail is a challenging circular route through the temperate rainforest to the foot of the waterfall. Take this classification into account when planning your day, especially if you want to combine different age groups or varying interests.

Another perspective is offered by the Devil's Cauldron. This is a large whirlpool hole in the deepest part of the gorge; a viewing platform hangs above the river. The Devil's Cauldron Trail leads through a rocky landscape along the River Lyd to a platform above the Devil's Cauldron. The Lyd Link path also runs through the forest between the two visitor areas. The route connects the entrances to the Devil's Cauldron and the Waterfall Trail over a distance of 1.3 miles.

Getting there and choosing a place to stay

When planning your accommodation, the desired mix of walking, nature observation and local history is a useful starting point. Both entrances to Lydford Gorge are on Route 27 of the National Cycle Network (NCN27). In addition, services between Okehampton, including its railway station, and Tavistock stop at both entrances to the gorge.

Longer routes also begin in Lydford: Stage 3 of the West Devon Way starts in the village centre. The Lydford Gorge Railway Path, on the other hand, follows the route of the former Great Western Railway through deep cuttings that have since been reclaimed by nature. This allows you to choose between a challenging circular route, a shorter connecting path and a historic railway route as different focal points.

Discover historic Lydford

Lydford is not only a starting point for paths through the gorge. In the 9th century, the settlement was documented as one of four important towns or burhs in Devon. The Saxon street grid is still recognisable; modern hedges and footpaths trace the routes of former streets. North of Lydford Castle and Saxon Town are Saxon town defences, while a former Norman earthwork castle lies to the south.

The Church of St Petrock in Lydford is also part of the historical orientation, a listed Grade II* building. Private prayer is possible in the church. Anyone interested in churches, fortifications and the development of a historic settlement can combine these impressions with the landscape experiences of the Gorge for a varied stay.

Compare other destinations

If you would like to compare other places with Lydford when planning your trip, here is a compact selection: East Putford, Black Torrington, Cornwood, Parracombe, Cornworthy, Burrington, Appledore and Mortehoe.

For the overarching travel overview: Devon.