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Tavy Cleave

Wild Swimming Spot

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Moorland, Riverside, Valley

Walking, Swimming

After heavy rainfall

Photo: Lewis Clarke via Geograph.org.uk

Tavy Cleave is a dramatic rocky gorge on the western edge of Dartmoor in Devon, where the River Tavy cuts a steep valley below a line of tors. Heather-clad slopes and granite outcrops rise on either side, with the river running over cascades into shallow pools used for a wild dip. It is reached on a...

7

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

0

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

5 day, 2 overnight

The Dartmoor Inn – Lydford, The Elephant’s Nest Inn – Horndon, The Castle Inn – Lydford

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Tavy Cleave?
Devon houses this deep river valley on the western edge of Dartmoor. Hikers usually approach the gorge by following the riverside tracks near local tors.

What type of place is Tavy Cleave?
Tavy Cleave is a wild swimming spot on Dartmoor in Devon.

When is the best time to visit Tavy Cleave?
Heavy rainfall supercharges the river cascades, making immediate post-storm periods ideal for experiencing the full rush of the water. Summer months provide much more manageable water temperatures if you want to swim comfortably.

What can you do at Tavy Cleave?
Swimmers regularly plunge into the deep, natural pools carved out by the fast currents. Walking along the rugged valley trails also rewards you with brilliant views of the rocky tors overhead.

How long should I spend at Tavy Cleave?
Allowing roughly half a day gives ample time to complete the riverside walk and enjoy a dip. Many outdoor enthusiasts spend longer here to combine their swim with a wider moorland hike.

Where do I park at Tavy Cleave?
Spaces for seven vehicles exist nearby, providing five day and two overnight parking spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Tavy Cleave?
The Dartmoor Inn, Lydford, The Elephant's Nest Inn, Horndon, and The Castle Inn, Lydford provide three dining choices in the surrounding area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Tavy Cleave?
There are no staycation spots recorded immediately near Tavy Cleave, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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