Fodor's Expert Review Lydford Gorge

The River Lyd carved a spectacular 1½-mile-long chasm through the rock at Lydford Gorge, outside the pretty village of Lydford, midway between Okehampton and Tavistock. Two paths follow the gorge past gurgling whirlpools and waterfalls with evocative names such as the Devil's Cauldron and the White Lady Waterfall. Currently, the Devil's Cauldron trail and viewing platform are closed for extended repairs, though the river trail, taking in most of the gorge, and the shorter waterfall trail are both open. Prices will increase once the site is fully reopened. Sturdy footwear is recommended. Although the walk can be quite challenging, the paths can still get congested during busy periods. Two tearooms are open from late March through October. In winter, access is restricted: usually only the waterfall and the top of the gorge remain open.