Lydford Gorge Circular Walk
Devon
Lydford Gorge is a dog friendly National Trust property in west Devon, where the River Lyd carves a steep wooded ravine on the western edge of Dartmoor. The full circular trail drops down from Lydford village past the Devil's Cauldron whirlpool, runs alongside the river through dense oak and ash woodland, then climbs to the 30 metre White Lady Waterfall before returning along the higher railway path with views over the gorge.
Dogs are welcome on a short lead throughout the gorge, and the National Trust has added an enclosed off-lead area in the orchard at the Devil's Cauldron entrance for a quick run. The route includes flights of steps, narrow unguarded paths and slippery rock when wet, so steady paws are needed and the seven steps to the Devil's Cauldron viewing platform are best skipped with dogs. Free parking is provided at both entrances, and there is a tearoom and toilets at the main Devil's Cauldron car park.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 7.2 km (4.5 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 3 hr
- Walk Type
- Woodland, River, Waterfall
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Low
- Livestock Risk
- None
- Facilities
- Tearoom, toilets and visitor reception at the Devil's Cauldron entrance, with picnic spots in the orchard.
- Parking
- Free National Trust car parks at the Devil's Cauldron entrance (EX20 4BH) and the smaller Waterfall entrance, with no overnight parking and no caravan access.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lydford Gorge Circular Walk dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome at Lydford Gorge, which is a National Trust property in west Devon on the edge of Dartmoor. It earns a 7 out of 10 for dog friendliness — the trail and facilities are well suited to dogs, though the terrain does require some care throughout.
Can dogs be off lead at Lydford Gorge Circular Walk?
Dogs must be kept on a short lead along the gorge trail itself, but the National Trust has created an enclosed off-lead area in the orchard at the Devil's Cauldron entrance where your dog can have a proper run. It's a handy spot to let them stretch their legs before or after the walk.
What should I know before visiting Lydford Gorge Circular Walk with my dog?
The route includes flights of steps, narrow unguarded paths and slippery rock in wet conditions, so it's best suited to sure-footed dogs and confident handlers. The seven steps down to the Devil's Cauldron viewing platform are not recommended with dogs, so it's worth skipping that section. On the plus side, there's free parking at both entrances, and a tearoom and toilets at the main Devil's Cauldron car park if you need a post-walk break.
What’s Nearby?
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