Lydford Forest

Visitor information

Lydford Forest is a tranquil woodland situated on the western edge of Dartmoor in the picturesque valley of the River Lyd

Once part of the area’s industrial past, this diverse woodland now supports a wide variety of plant and animal life including some of the UK’s rarest butterfly species. Come and see what you can spot! 

 

At a glance

  • Walking trails
  • Wildlife
  • Picnic area
  • Dogs welcome

Things to do

Walking at Lydford Forest

Walking is the perfect way to get some fresh air and explore some of the area's most beautiful landscapes.

Lydford Forest has a variety of open paths and trails for you to explore.

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Nearby forests

Sunlight shining through woodland scenery

Northcombe

Walk Northcombe's circular forest road loop, starting from the parking area. The wide tracks with gentle gradients make for easy going walks or rides, with amazing views and lots to explore.

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Girl walking through muddy puddle in the forest

Witherdon Wood

With several well-maintained tracks which provide opportunities for your wanderings, Witherdon Wood is a great forest location for all explorers, runners and meanderers. 

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Hamsterley Grove Beck riverside

Abbeyford Woods

These beautiful woods with stunning walks have paths for all, just a few minutes from Okehampton.

You can walk the Tarka Trail and follow the River Okement, or just wind your way through the woodland.

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Reservoir surrounded by forest

Fernworthy Forest

Fernworthy's position at the edge of Fernworthy Reservoir provides extensive opportunities for walking, nature spotting, and enjoying the peace of Dartmoor.

See if you can find one of the many prehistoric sites in the area including the Fernworthy Cairn Circle and Fernworthy Assycombe Stone Row.

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