Lydford Gorge Waterfall Trail

The Waterfall Trail is a 1.75-mile (2.8 km) loop from Lydford Gorge’s Waterfall entrance, down into the steep-sided gorge to Whitelady Waterfall, then back through woodland and along the old railway path. The falls are the main reason to come; the return adds a different side of the gorge instead of simply repeating the entrance path. The National Trust estimates an hour. Allow about 90 minutes if you want time at the falls and bird hide. The waterfall approach itself is out and back, so the total distance includes walking that stretch twice.

Start beside the gravel picnic area and pass through the small wooden gate. The path bends sharply right, then reaches a junction where you keep left and pass under the old railway bridge. Look across the stream just beyond it for the remains of Forda Mill; the disused mill was taken down in 1927. Farther down, exposed patches of limestone belong to the Devonian Liddaton Formation. Look closely for fossil bryozoa, tiny colonial sea animals only about half a millimetre long.

The trail continues down through woodland, over uneven rocky ground and past a small gate. Ignore the path leading off to the left; at the next junction, turn right and follow the river with it on your left. This leads to the foot of the 30-metre Whitelady Waterfall, where the River Lyd drops over the rock face. The suspension bridge gives you a view back toward the cascade. For a photo, use the bridge to frame the white water against the dark gorge and river. The exposed rocks beside the falls can be slippery, so stay on the established path.

Retrace the riverside path to the junction, now with the river on your right. Take the uphill path through the trees. This is the steep return climb, winding over rough ground before it reaches the old railway path above the gorge. Turn right for the short bird-hide spur, then return to the junction and follow the railway path left. It brings you back toward the Waterfall entrance, finishing with the small slope you descended at the start.

The Trust calls the route step-free to the waterfall, but that does not mean level or easy: steep slopes and uneven surfaces can be slippery even when dry. It may be challenging for visitors with limited mobility. A Tramper can be hired to reach the falls and bird hide from March to October; book ahead. Dogs are welcome on short leads and must stay out of the river. Do not swim: help can be difficult to reach in the gorge.

The walk is inside the National Trust’s Lydford Gorge visitor site, so site admission applies; the Waterfall car park is free. Long-vehicle spaces are limited, caravans are not suitable, and overnight parking is not allowed. A toilet is at the rear of the entrance building. The Waterfall tea-room is a separate stop beside the car park, with takeaway drinks, snacks and bakes, so it is a stop before or after the gorge walk.