Lydford Gorge
24 miles from Exeter β’ Various gorge walks
Lydford Gorge is the deepest gorge in the South West with the dramatic Devil's Cauldron and 30m White Lady waterfall. Three pawprint rated by National Trust - the very best for dogs! Dogs welcome in tea-rooms. NEW enclosed off-lead area with agility obstacles.

Β© m-peters, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Geograph
Moderate to Challenging
Various gorge walks
Yes
Free
Overview
Lydford Gorge is the deepest gorge in the South West with the dramatic Devil's Cauldron and 30m White Lady waterfall. Three pawprint rated by National Trust - the very best for dogs! Dogs welcome in tea-rooms. NEW enclosed off-lead area with agility obstacles.
What to Expect
Dramatic gorge walking through ancient woodland. Devils Cauldron with churning waters. White Lady waterfall (30m). Dogs welcome on short leads - steep drops mean this is essential. Tea-rooms are dog-friendly. New off-lead play area with agility at Devil's Cauldron entrance.
Best For
- βDramatic scenery
- βWaterfalls
- βThree pawprint rated (best for dogs)
- βDog-friendly tea-rooms
- βNew off-lead agility area
- βFree parking
Not Ideal For
- β Dogs who don't like being on lead (leads essential)
- β Mobility issues
- β Vertigo sufferers
Things to Be Aware Of
- β Dogs must be on short lead at all times on trails
- β Steep drops - leads essential for safety
- β Keep dogs out of river
- β Slippery when wet
- β Winter closure: some trails closed Nov-March
Local Tips from Evie
NEW enclosed off-lead area in the orchard at Devil's Cauldron entrance - great for letting dogs burn energy! Has agility obstacles. Tea-rooms welcome dogs. The Castle Inn in Lydford village is excellent and dog-friendly. Allow 2-3 hours for full circular.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed at Lydford Gorge?
Yes! Three pawprint rated - the very best for dogs. Dogs welcome in tea-rooms. Must be on short lead on trails (steep paths and drops).
Is there an off-lead area at Lydford Gorge?
Yes! New enclosed off-lead area in the orchard at Devil's Cauldron entrance. 15m x 30m with 5.5ft fence and agility obstacles including jump, weave posts, tyres and tunnel.
Is parking free at Lydford Gorge?
Yes! Free parking at both entrances.
Practical Information
Lydford Gorge, Lydford
EX20 4BH
FREE parking at both entrances. Waterfall entrance has 3 Blue Badge bays 20m from welcome. Devil's Cauldron entrance (EX20 4BH) has 2 Blue Badge bays 35m from welcome. Not suitable for caravans. No overnight parking.
Three pawprint rated by National Trust - the very best for dogs! Dogs must be on short lead on trails (steep paths). NEW enclosed off-lead area in orchard at Devil's Cauldron entrance: 15m x 30m, 1.65m/5.5ft fence, with agility obstacles (jump, weave posts, tyres, tunnel). Dogs kept out of river.


