Lydford Gorge

Lydford Gorge is the deepest river gorge in the South West, cut by the River Lyd on the edge of Dartmoor and filled with temperate rainforest, a globally rare habitat. There are two entrances just over a mile apart, each with a free car park and tea-room: the Waterfall trail descends to the foot of the 30-metre Whitelady Waterfall, while the Devil's Cauldron trail drops into the deepest part of the gorge, where a platform hangs over a churning pothole; a 1.3-mile woodland path links the two. Dogs are welcome on short leads, with a fenced off-lead area in the orchard. Reviewers pick out the Devil's Cauldron as the highlight and praise the tea-room cakes. Tips from regulars: wear sturdy footwear, as the paths are steep and rugged; only eight people are allowed on the cauldron platform at a time, so expect a short wait; and check the website before travelling, since a section of trail is closed long term and the gorge shuts in high winds.