A Devon woman has advised tourists to visit a "temperate rainforest" she says few people know about. Lana Hartley, who documents her life travelling in her campervan across Devon and Cornwall, showcased the spot in a video. "There's misty trails, ancient trees, hidden waterfalls and everything is green," she enthused on TikTok. Lana also pointed out the destination represents the "deepest gorge in the South West".
"It feels more like a jungle… the whole place feels untouched and otherworldly," she continued. "It always blows my mind when I find places like this in the UK… especially in Devon."
The gorge is Lydford Gorge, on the edge of Dartmoor National Park between Okehampton and Tavistock. Operated by the National Trust, it boasts a 30m waterfall. "This steep-sided river gorge, carved into the western edge of Dartmoor, has been drawing visitors in search of the picturesque waterfall since Victorian times," the trust advised online. "Around every corner the River Lyd plunges, tumbles, swirls and gently meanders as it travels though ancient oak woodland, abundant with wildlife."
However, the National Trust warned: "Hiking down into the gorge is a challenging and rewarding adventure, be prepared for strenuous climbs and rugged ground – sturdy footwear with good grip is recommended. There are two main walking trails. Explore the ancient woodland and railway to take in the 30m-high Whitelady Waterfall. Or descend into the deepest part of the gorge and brave the Devil’s Cauldron pothole on a platform over the river. The gorge is filled with temperate rainforest, which is now a globally rare habitat. It’s designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its geology, flora and fauna. Please respect the habitats in the gorge by taking only photographs and leaving only footprints."
Entry is free for National Trust members, while adult non-members pay £13. The site also has a second-hand bookshop, tea-room, picnic area and toilets at the Devil's Cauldron entrance. Parking is free and dogs are welcome.
Responding to Lana's clip, one
Tourists Flock to Devon’s Rare Rainforest Gorge and Waterfall