Devil's Cauldron Trail
Descend into Lydford Gorge on this circular walk and follow the narrow, winding paths next to the River Lyd as it changes from peaceful stream to raging torrent. Head through the deep ravine, stopping off at the viewing platform in the Devil's Cauldron (a large pothole full of gushing water and encircled by rock walls) before heading back out again.
The Devil’s Cauldron trail is now closed for winter
From Monday 4 November 2024 only the trails to Whitelady Waterfall and the bird hide are open. Every winter the Devil’s Cauldron trail and seasonal trails are closed for safety and essential maintenance work. This can include tree work, path work and rock face inspections, so please do not pass any locked gates. We plan to reopen from Saturday 1 March 2025.
Total steps: 7
Total steps: 7
Start point
Devil's Cauldron entrance, Lydford Gorge, grid ref: SX508844
Step 1
From visitor welcome head down the gravel path, past the entrance to the tea-room, and go through the open gate to start the walk.
Step 2
Follow the path as it zig-zags gently down through the trees until you come to a junction with a signpost.
Step 3
Take the right-hand path and head down to the river and across the bridge.
Step 4
Turn right (the path to the left is closed and is unsafe), then follow the path upstream and cross back over the river via a metal bridge.
Step 5
Follow the path to the left, up the rock steps, to where it splits.
Step 6
To head into the Devil's Cauldron, take the left-hand path which drops down to a gate. Go through the gate and down the seven narrow, rock-hewn steps, with a handrail but no barrier, to access the viewing platform. The platform floor is not suitable for all dogs so you may wish to avoid this. To continue the walk head back out of the cauldron to the main path and head left to continue uphill until you reach a junction with a steep path up to the right.
Step 7
At this point you can explore a short section of path under the road bridge before heading back out of the gorge. Then take the steep path uphill and follow it until you meet the gravel path, turn left to head towards the tea-room, bookshop and way out.
End point
Devil's Cauldron entrance, Lydford Gorge, grid ref: SX508844
Trail map
More near here
Lydford Gorge Waterfall trail
This rugged circular walk descends into steep-sided Lydford Gorge, to the foot of the 30-metre high Whitelady Waterfall, before returning through oak woods abundant with wildlife.
Lydford Gorge Railway Path
Take an easy stroll along the line of the old Great Western Railway, passing through deep cuttings that have now returned to nature.
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