Waterfalls are one of the most mystical things you can come across while out for a walk, so we thought we would compile a list of all the waterfalls that can be found in Devon, so even though we’re all stuck at home, we can still enjoy the magic of natural beauty.

We would ask that although these waterfalls all look amazing, that you don’t travel until restrictions have been lifted. They will all still be there for visits later in the year after all!

You can keep up to date with the latest news regarding travel and the coronavirus on the government’s website: gov.uk/coronavirus.

Like most of Devon’s beauty spots, the region’s many waterfalls all have incredible stories full of myth and legend, so here is a list of the county’s waterfalls, where you can find them and the local legends that go with them!

Clovelly Waterfall

waterfall in clovelly

Funnily enough, you can find this in the village of Clovelly – Clovelly is a tourist attraction in its own right, with its picturesque streets and no car policy. The village is also home to a number of donkeys – the only vehicle needed to transport things around the cobbled streets. The waterfall is often used as the backdrop to wedding pictures and is a haven for those that love an Arthurian legend – it is said that Merlin the magician was born in the cave behind the waterfall! You can find it by strolling across the beach past the lifeboats, the source of the water is from a diverted stream which now emerges on the beach rather than going through the village. 

Canonteign Falls

canonteign falls

These days you can find two sets of waterfalls at the Canonteign Falls site. Located in the Teign Valley just outside Exeter, there are two natural falls that have existed in the valley since who knows when as well as the Lady Exmouth Falls, which was named after the 3rd Lady Exmouth and was built under her direction at the end of the 1800s. This particular waterfall was created by local miners following the closure of the region’s silver mine and is the highest of all England’s manmade waterfalls. Before you reach the Lady Exmouth Fall though, you come across Clampitt Falls, part of the natural waterfall course that originates on Dartmoor and ends in the River Teign. Aside from the waterfalls, Canonteign Falls is also home to a number of beautiful parks and gardens as well as having amazing views across the Teign Valley.

Whitelady Waterfall

In Okehampton is this spectacular site, the water here runs down the side of a huge gorge resembling a silk train, which is most likely how it got its name. The area creates a lot of mist and is remarkably lush and green giving the impression that you’re in another world entirely. This waterfall is managed by the National Trust and is part of the Lydford Gorge site, speaking of which…

Becky Falls

Regarded as one of Devon’s top beauty spots, Becky Falls can be found on Dartmoor and is thought to date back to the Ice Age. The Becky Falls waterfall can be found in the heart of the park and is 70ft high! It’s a completely natural fall with the water coming from the Becka Brook, which runs down into the Bovey Valley. As well as the main falls, there are a number of small ones along the whole length of the brook – it’s a truly remarkable place to explore.

Venford Falls

venford falls
Also on Dartmouth is Venford Falls, another stunning area of the moor full of mystical intrigue. The falls form part of the Venford Reservoir, Devon’s smallest. While you might not think visiting a waterworks is a good way to find pretty sights, you’d be wrong, starting at the second car park, walk away from the road and follow the path downstream past the waterworks and there you’ll find it.

Burrator Waterfalls


Another Reservoir with some delightful waterfalls is Burrator, which can be found in Yelverton. The waterfall is situated in Burrator Gorge, near the dam. Though not a natural waterfall, it does make for a lovely backdrop to photos.

Speke’s Mill Mouth Waterfall


At the other end of the county, you’ll find Speke’s Mill Mouth, where there is a waterfall, some incredible moorland views and plenty of coast to explore. The area can be found along the South West Coast Path and there is a lovely 4 mile circular walk from Hartland Quay where you can take in the waterfalls.

Hollow Brook

Located near Martinhoe on the North Devon Coast, the waterfall at Hollowbrook is best seen from the sea – it is thought to be around 200 meters in height and meanders beautifully down the side of a cliff and into the sea. During the warmer months, the area around the waterfall is full of wild flowers and you can often see birds and other wildlife going about their business while you’re there.

Watersmeet

watersmeet

On Exmoor you can find a number of falls at Watesmeet, one of the largest remaining ancient woodlands on the moor. Now managed by the National Trust, this part of the moor has many public footpaths, so you have a wide choice of routes around the woodland and whichever one you take, you are sure to meet with waterfalls. Even during dry spells, the river itself is just as captivating, it is fast moving though, so don’t get too close!

Who else is excited about being able to visit these magical places once restrictions have lifted? For more inspiration for future trips to Devon, make sure to visit our itineraries page! In the meantime, if you’re missing the beautiful scenery, be sure to follow us on Instagram, where you can enjoy the region from the comfort of your own home!