An update from Lydford Gorge

In June 2021, we opened the path through the gorge for the first time since March 2020, and now we have more space to spread out, you no longer need to book your visit to Lydford Gorge in advance. The Devil’s Cauldron viewing platform was unfortunately damaged by a fallen tree, so this section of the walk remains closed for repair. When we had to close the whole of Lydford Gorge, little did we know that it would be over a year before we got back to any kind of normal opening. In June 2020 we opened just the waterfall trail with a booking system in place to help limit numbers and keep everyone safe. There were several considerations that meant we couldn’t open more of the gorge at that time. Safety is always our top priority as the terrain in the gorge is so challenging, and with reduced staff it wasn’t possible to keep up with the maintenance.

Over the past year there has been lots of work going on behind the scenes to get ready for reopening. On top of catching up with the maintenance of all the steps, paths and handrails, there were several fallen trees to deal with; areas where the river had eroded the bank that needed shoring up; and plenty of fallen rocks to clear off the paths. In addition to maintaining the walking routes, another important role is to check on the wildlife that lives in the gorge. We have some important species that are temperate rainforest specialists; a habitat that is becoming increasingly rare. The success story for 2021 were the pied flycatchers, which had a good year despite the very late, cold spring with six pairs breeding successfully.

If you’re planning a visit, please check online at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lydford-gorge for up-to-date information before travelling. We look forward to welcoming you back soon.

Supplied by The National Trust