If you enjoy walks with plenty of natural drama then Lydford Gorge is an extraordinary place for a walk on Dartmoor in Devon.
Love Devon? Why not follow me on Instagram, join the Devon with Kids Facebook group and subscribe to my newsletter!
Contents - jump to what you'd like to know
Why is Lydford Gorge so special?
The Gorge is 1.5 miles long and is the deepest in the South West. At one end there is a 30m waterfall and at the other is a naturally formed whirlpool called the Devil’s Cauldron.
In between is a rambling river with mini falls (in comparison), steep cliffs and lycern covered woodland that’s a haven for wildlife.
There’s also a few fun things for kids to spot along the way.
Find more days out on Dartmoor to do with your family.
We enjoyed a reasonably gentle walk here on one of the hottest days of the year. There was a cool down draft beside the Whitelady Waterfall and a mesmerising babble of the steam dashing along the bottom of the Gorge.
Lydford Gorge Map
Here is a map of the whole Gorge and the walks around it.
We visited in 2020 when the Devil’s Cauldron section of the walk was closed. Good news: it reopened in August 2022!
This is the Whitelady Waterfall walk:
Is this walk suitable for pushchairs?
No. There are some steep sections and rough paths that are not suitable for pushchairs. You could however easily walk this route with young children under their own steam or in a baby or toddler carrier.
Wear walking shoes or boots as the path is wet and slippery in places.
Find more easy walks to do on Dartmoor with kids.
Can you swim at Lydford Gorge?
However tempting it may be in the heat of the summer it is dangerous to swim in Lydford Gorge. Please do not enter the water. Some parts are deeper than they appear and the water flows fast.
Is it dog-friendly?
Yes, your dog can join you on the Devon waterfall walk at Lydford Gorge. However, they must stay on a lead.
Find more dog-friendly Devon attractions.
What facilities are there at Lydford Gorge?
There is a tea room and toilet block at the waterfall car park, and also at the Cauldron car park.
The opening times for these vary depending on the season so check the National Trust website.
When is Lydford Gorge open?
Lydford Gorge and its facilities are open Tuesday to Sunday, on Bank Holidays, and on Mondays that fall in the Devon School holidays.
Please check the National Trust website for the very latest information.
Hungry for more Devon hikes?
Check out the walks recommended by Devon with Kids including pram-friendly strolls, adventure trails and challenging hikes for nature-loving adventurers.
Stomp this way for more walks in Devon.
More waterfalls in Dartmoor
We can also recommend visiting these Dartmoor waterfalls:
Love waterfalls? Take a look at my post about more waterfalls in Devon.
Would you like more Devon goodies delivered to your inbox? Sign up to the Devon with Kids newsletter.
If you’re thinking of visiting Lydford Gorge on Dartmoor then why not save this post for later.
