The best walks and hikes around Lydford

Yes, Lydford offers several easier trails suitable for families. The area around the gorge has some gentle paths. For a shorter, engaging walk, consider the Large Mushroom Sculpture – Whitelady Waterfall loop from White Lady Waterfall. It's a relatively flat and short route that's great for all ages.

Dogs are welcome on many trails, but there are specific rules for Lydford Gorge. Within the gorge, which is managed by the National Trust, dogs must be kept on a short lead at all times. For more freedom, the open moorland trails leading out from Lydford offer plenty of space for dogs to explore.

Yes, the majority of trails around Lydford are circular routes that start and end in convenient locations. You can find everything from short loops within the gorge to more challenging circuits on the moor. For a longer day out with fantastic views, the Widgery Cross at Brat Tor – Great Nodden loop from West Devon is a great moderate option.

The trail to the Devil's Cauldron is one of the most dramatic sections of the Lydford Gorge walk. It is known for being steep, narrow, and rugged, with many steps. The path descends deep into the gorge to a viewing platform over the powerful, swirling pothole. Sturdy footwear with good grip is essential for this section.

The difficulty varies. The main trail through Lydford Gorge is about 3 miles (5 km) long and can be challenging due to its steep, narrow, and uneven paths, especially on the descent to the Devil's Cauldron. The paths can also be slippery when wet. It's considered a moderate walk that requires sturdy footwear and a reasonable level of fitness.

Yes, the village of Lydford has welcoming pubs perfect for relaxing after a walk. The Castle Inn, located near Lydford Castle, is a popular choice for a post-hike meal or drink. It's advisable to book ahead, especially for Sunday lunch.

For walks within Lydford Gorge, the main car park is at the National Trust visitor centre. This is a pay-and-display car park, though it's free for National Trust members. For walks heading onto the open moor, there are various smaller car parks and lay-bys, such as the one near Lydford Forest, which provide access to different trailheads.

Absolutely. Many hikes incorporate the area's rich history. You can start a walk from the ruins of Lydford Castle, a 13th-century tower that was once a prison. The Lydford Castle & Whitelady Waterfall loop is a perfect example of a trail that combines natural beauty with local history.

Lydford offers a fantastic mix of scenery. You'll find the deep, lush, and dramatic Lydford Gorge with its temperate rainforest environment and waterfalls. Beyond the gorge, trails open up onto the vast, windswept moorlands of Dartmoor, characterized by granite tors, expansive views, and hardy vegetation. There are also sections of quiet, ancient woodland to explore.

There are over 40 distinct hiking trails to explore around Lydford. The network includes 14 easy routes, 24 moderate trails, and 3 difficult hikes, offering a wide variety of options for all fitness and experience levels.

The trails around Lydford are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the stunning natural beauty of Lydford Gorge, particularly the impressive Whitelady Waterfall and the dramatic Devil's Cauldron. The contrast between the sheltered gorge and the wild, open moorland is another frequently highlighted feature.