Top waterfalls in Devon

Waterfalls are arguably nature’s best stress relievers, thanks to their mesmerising flow of water and calming sounds, and they often exist among beautiful scenery, which Devon has in abundance. Although there isn’t room to go into them here, scientists have come up with numerous explanations for why humans are so drawn to these natural wonders. Seeing the waterfalls on Dartmoor is one of our 10 affordable family fun ideas in Devon.

We’ve rounded up the top waterfalls in Devon, from majestic sights that have become popular tourist attractions, to hidden gems located off the beaten path. Each waterfall is unique, beautiful in its own way, and sure to delight nature lovers, photographers, artists, poets, and anyone seeking to soothe their soul.

After exploring Devon’s waterfalls, you’ll want somewhere comfy to kick off your walking shoes and put your feet up. We’ve got fantastic holiday cottages all across Devon, so you’re bound to find one close by. You can browse the collection by clicking on the button below.

Skip to:

• Canonteign Falls
• Watersmeet
• Lydford Gorge
• Becky Falls
• Speke’s Mill Mouth
• Venford Falls

Canonteign Falls

Canonteign Falls is an attraction near Exeter where you can spend the day exploring woodlands and meadows, waterfalls and lakes, a Victorian Fern Garden, and playgrounds for all ages from little ones to pre-teens. The 90-acre site boasts the South West’s highest waterfall, Lady Exmouth Falls – it’s 70 metres tall and was man-made by redirecting a stream over a cliff. The cafe is open for breakfast, lunch, cakes and cream teas. 

Watersmeet

Watersmeet, near Lynmouth, is a stunning site where the East Lyn River meets Hoar Oak Water. The 2,000-acre estate is managed by the National Trust and we think it’s one of the top National Trust places to visit in Devon. It features a dramatic river gorge and ancient woodlands that are full of wildlife. You’ll see a small but very pretty waterfall on the river trail. A former fishing and hunting lodge now serves as an information centre, tea room and shop. Nearby is Devon’s most northerly outcrop, Foreland Point, which offers breathtaking walks and views. 

Lydford Gorge

Lydford Gorge, near Tavistock, is the deepest gorge in the South West, with uneven ground and steep climbs – but visitors to this National Trust attraction are rewarded with trails through temperate rainforest leading to a spectacular 30-metre waterfall, Whitelady Waterfall. There are other, smaller waterfalls to see on the waterfall trail, too. In the deepest part of the gorge, you can stand on a platform over the river to see the Devil’s Cauldron – a giant pothole where the water looks like it’s boiling. There are also two lovely tea rooms on site.

Becky Falls

Becky Falls is a woodland park in a boulder-strewn valley in the heart of Dartmoor, with a spectacular waterfall as its centrepiece. The main waterfall is just over 21 metres high but there are also many smaller waterfalls to enjoy. As well as the walking trails, there’s a children’s zoo with animals from goats and ponies to snakes and invertebrates. There’s a licensed cafe serving burgers, paninis and pasties, with gluten-free and vegan options available.

Speke’s Mill Mouth

Speke’s Mill Mouth, on the Hartland Peninsula in North Devon, has a stunning waterfall that plunges around 50 metres down a rocky cliff. The whole area is renowned for its rugged beauty and scenic coastal walks. The waterfall is around a 30-minute walk from the car park at Hartland Quay – just follow the South West Coast Path past St Catherine’s Tor until you reach the wide grassy area above the falls. 

Venford Falls

Venford Falls is a secluded waterfall tucked away among dense woodland where the trees and rocks are covered in green moss. It’s one of our top things to do on Dartmoor. It’s found on Venford Brook, the stream that flows north from Venford Reservoir, near Ashburton. It’s a small but very atmospheric waterfall – and it’s very popular with photographers. It’s also worth going for a walk around the reservoir, which takes around 30 minutes, and perhaps enjoying a picnic there.

Stay with us near a top Devon waterfall

Take a stroll through the countryside to find one of the waterfalls in this guide, and you’ll see some of the best scenery that Devon has to offer. It may be a fairly easy walk, or it may be a bit more demanding, but the reward will be worth the effort. And if it’s raining, look on the bright side: the waterfall will look even more impressive thanks to the extra water! Don’t forget to take your camera to help your memories last a lifetime. Click the button below to find a holiday cottage where you can relax after your adventures.