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A picturesque stone bridge crosses the River Lyd just south of the village of Lydford. At this point the river often falls fast and furious as it tumbles down into a beautiful ravine roofed by large trees and sided by carpets of wild flowers and garlic. Here the river with its boulders, dark pools, cascades and long rapids is endlessly changing, but always beautiful. Sometimes, when the river moves more slowly its mood becomes reflective and you can stand on the bridge watching streams of sunlight moving around the waters like a dazzling golden beams. The light summer breezes sway willow branches, which with other trees cast their reflections on the sun-kissed water.
The descent into the gorge from the Lydford end is steep, for this is the deepest gorge in south-west England. It stretches from the stunning Devils Cauldron Whirlpool, which lies close to the bridge and travels through about a mile and a half of wonderful scenery, to end with the grand finale of the dramatic White Lady Waterfall.
Alongside the river and above the gorge there are lovely walks from one end of the gorge to the other. Following the river path walkers can enjoy its wildlife and changing moods, whilst from above there are long vista's of a scenic landscape of glorious woods, rare wild flowers and plants.
An enjoyable legend tells that in the 17th century the gorge was inhabited by a notorious family of outlaws - the Gubbins. They are said to have terrorised the neighbourhood, stole sheep from Dartmoor, committed "lewd" acts, and made of with "two strumpets" from whom they are said to have multiplied accordingly!
Today, Lydford Gorge is owned by the National Trust and is open for its entire length throughout the summer. It is a lovely place to wander and continues to be appreciated and revered for its beauty.
in the county of Devon
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in the county of Devon
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a Picturesque Village in the county of Devon
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in the county of Devon
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