Driving and hiking through Cheddar Gorge? Absolutely unforgettable. Cheddar Gorge is Britain’s largest and deepest natural gorge, stretching three miles long and plunging as far as 400 feet. As I wound along the B3135, sheer limestone cliffs loomed overhead, and every bend felt like a brand-new adventure.
On my trip, I tackled the famous hiking trails and climbed up to catch those sweeping Mendip Hill views. The day wasn’t just about hiking—I ducked into ancient caves and, of course, sampled the gorge’s namesake cheese.
If dramatic landscapes, secretive caves, and bold flavors are your thing, you’ll want to see what makes Cheddar Gorge such a standout in England.
Discovering Cheddar Gorge: Britain’s Largest Gorge
Cheddar Gorge really stands out as England’s largest gorge. The place is famous for its steep cliffs, deep caves, and wild limestone formations.
You’ll find it in Somerset, right on the edge of the Mendip Hills. The area combines natural beauty with a bit of geological magic.
Geological Wonders and Landscape
Over thousands of years, Ice Age glacial meltwater carved out Cheddar Gorge. Water sliced deep into the thick limestone, forming a canyon nearly three miles long and up to 400 feet deep.
Inside, you’ll find cave systems like Gough’s Cave and Cox’s Cave. These places are packed with stalactites and stalagmites. Some chambers are so big they feel like cathedrals.
One cave held a surprise—archaeologists found “Cheddar Man” here, Britain’s oldest complete skeleton, dating back about 9,000 years.
Here’s a quick look at what makes the landscape unique:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rock Type | Limestone |
| Cliff Heights | Up to 400 feet |
| Gorge Length | About 3 miles |
| Famous Caves | Gough’s Cave, Cox’s Cave |
| Historic Find | Cheddar Man (9,000 years old skeleton) |
Location in Somerset and Nearby Attractions
Cheddar Gorge sits in Somerset, in the southwest of England. The gorge is close to the village of Cheddar, which, yes, is where cheddar cheese got its name.
It’s also not far from the Somerset Levels, a flat wetland area that’s a magnet for wildlife.
The B3135, or Cliff Road, winds straight through the gorge. Driving or hiking along here? You’ll get jaw-dropping views of cliffs shooting up on either side.
Nearby, you can check out the Cheddar Reservoir, pop into cheese shops, or take on the Cheddar Gorge Trail—a four-mile walk with plenty of big-sky views.
Other local spots worth a look:
- The historic city of Wells
- Wookey Hole Caves
- Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)
Role of the Mendip Hills
The Mendip Hills stretch across Somerset, a backbone of limestone hills. Cheddar Gorge slices right through the southern edge, creating one of the most dramatic landscapes in southern England.
The hills have steep slopes, grassland, and rocky outcrops. The gorge exposes layers of limestone, and the hills feed water into the caves, creating underground streams.
This area is protected as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so walkers, cyclists, and nature fans flock here.
The hills and gorge support rare plants, bats, and birds. The geology shapes everything—the look, the wildlife, even the vibe of south Somerset. The Mendip Hills are a huge part of why Cheddar Gorge feels so special.
Epic Drives and Scenic Routes Through Cheddar Gorge
Driving through Cheddar Gorge? I’d do it again in a heartbeat. The twisting roads, sheer limestone walls, and handy viewpoints made it a highlight.
Best Driving Routes and Parking Tips
The main road through the gorge is the B3135, known locally as Cliff Road. The 14-mile stretch starts in Cheddar village and cuts right through the heart of the gorge.
There are 22 bends—so I took it slow, soaking in the scenery and navigating the sharp corners.
Parking’s a bit of a challenge, especially on weekends or sunny holidays. Several pay-and-display car parks sit in Cheddar village at the gorge’s entrance.
The main one is Cheddar Gorge Car Park, but you’ll find smaller lots too. Most have clear signs and public toilets.
Early mornings are your friend if you want a good spot. I learned that the hard way—after 10 a.m., spaces disappear fast. Overnight parking isn’t allowed.
Trailheads and cave entrances are all close to the main parking, so you won’t have to trek far to start your adventure.
Photo Opportunities and Viewpoints
Cheddar Gorge is packed with photo ops. I pulled over at roadside lay-bys for quick snaps and took my time at the top near the Lookout Tower and Jacob’s Ladder.
Both spots deliver killer views of the gorge’s length and depth. National Trust viewpoints on the clifftops are worth the short hike from the car parks.
Late afternoon light works wonders on the limestone. There are signposted paths and picnic benches at the main viewpoints, so it’s easy to linger and soak it all in.
Unforgettable Hiking and Walking Adventures
Cheddar Gorge is a playground for dramatic views, steep climbs, and wildlife encounters. Whether you’re up for a quick stroll or a full-on hike, there’s a trail to match your mood.
Top Walking Trails and Routes
There’s no shortage of walking trails here. My top pick? The cliff-top walk—about 3 miles along both sides of the gorge.
It’s well-marked, and the views are next-level. You’ll spot loads of folks stopping for photos at the best spots.
If you want something gentler, the village walk is under 2 miles. It loops around the heart of Cheddar village on easy, flat paths—ideal for a relaxed outing.
I saw people of all ages and fitness levels out there. Some trails get rocky and steep, so decent shoes are a must, especially if it’s rained.
Here’s a quick comparison of popular routes:
| Trail Name | Length | Difficulty | Main Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cliff-Top Walk | 3 miles | Moderate | Scenic cliffs, distant views |
| Village Walk | <2 miles | Easy | Historic village surroundings |
| Circular Gorge Walk | Varies | Moderate-Hard | Cliffs, caves, wildlife spots |
Jacob’s Ladder and the Lookout Tower
Jacob’s Ladder is no joke—over 270 steep steps take you from the gorge’s base up to the top. It’s a leg-burner, but totally worth it.
At the top, the Lookout Tower serves up one of Somerset’s best panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see for miles across the Mendip Hills and Somerset Levels.
It gets windy up here, so I always bring a jacket. Benches and flat spots let you catch your breath or snap some photos.
This spot is usually buzzing with hikers, all celebrating their climb or enjoying a snack.
Wildlife Encounters and Goats
Cheddar Gorge is home to a surprising mix of wildlife. Wild goats roam the steep slopes, and I loved watching them pick their way across the rocks.
Birds like kestrels and jackdaws nest in the cliff cracks. I sometimes spotted rabbits, and at dusk, bats flitted near the cave mouths.
I always stick to marked trails and keep noise down to avoid disturbing the animals. Most walkers seem just as excited as I am when they spot goats, but it’s best not to approach or feed them.
Seeing these animals adds a wild, special feel to any hike here.
Exploring the Enchanting Caves of Cheddar
Cheddar Gorge’s caves are legendary. I dove into ancient chambers, learned a ton about the area’s history, and found the visitor experience surprisingly smooth.
Gough’s Cave: A Subterranean Marvel
Gough’s Cave is the biggest and, honestly, the most impressive. Its vast chambers, underground river, and bizarre rock formations had me gawking.
It stays cool year-round, which is a real treat on a hot day. The stalactites and stalagmites here have been growing for thousands of years.
As I wandered the lit-up tunnels, the Cheddar Yeo River flowed quietly beneath my feet. Turns out, it’s Britain’s largest underground river system.
Fun fact: They age cheddar cheese right in Gough’s Cave. So you’re not just visiting a tourist spot—you’re stepping into a living tradition.
The display panels and audio guides do a good job of explaining the cave’s story.
The Story of Cheddar Man
One of the wildest finds here is Cheddar Man, Britain’s oldest complete skeleton. He’s over 9,000 years old and was discovered in Gough’s Cave back in 1903.
There’s a display showing what he might have looked like. DNA research has revealed some surprises about his appearance and ancestry.
Learning about his life and the tools he used brought prehistory to life for me. Seeing the actual site where he was found gave me a new appreciation for ancient survival.
If you’re into archaeology, don’t skip this.
Visitor Experience and Facilities
I found the whole Cheddar Gorge cave experience well organized. One ticket got me into Gough’s Cave, Cox’s Cave, the Museum of Prehistory, Jacob’s Ladder, and the Lookout Tower.
Clear signs made it easy to get around. The caves are family-friendly, and some areas even allow dogs.
Toilets sit close to the main entrance and ticket office. There are picnic tables, gift shops, and snack stands, which is handy if you’re here for a while.
Audio tours and guided walks added a lot to my visit. Parking wasn’t a hassle either—there’s a big lot right by the attractions.
Cheese, Heritage, and Local Delights
Cheddar Gorge isn’t just about epic views. It’s a place where local flavors, adventure, and a passion for protecting nature all come together.
Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company Experience
I dropped by the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company, which stands out as the only producer of traditional cheddar still crafting cheese right in the village of Cheddar.
Their whole process leans into heritage. They stick with old-school techniques and even age some cheeses in local caves.
Inside, the shop invites you to sample all sorts—cave-matured cheddar, herby varieties, and a smoky one that’s honestly hard to resist.
That cave-aged cheddar? It’s got this lush, creamy bite and a flavor that lingers in the best way.
The staff welcomed questions and genuinely seemed to love sharing their cheesemaking know-how. Everything’s handmade, and the shelves are packed with gifts for foodies.
If real cheddar’s your thing, you can’t skip this spot.
Here’s a quick table of their popular cheeses:
| Cheese Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|
| Cave Matured Cheddar | Aged in local caves |
| Smoked Cheddar | Naturally smoked |
| Cheddar with Cracked Pepper | Spicy and savory |
Climbers and Adventure Activities
Cheddar Gorge draws climbers from everywhere. The cliffs are dramatic, offering both sport and trad routes for all skill levels.
Standing at the base, I watched climbers inch up the limestone—honestly, it’s thrilling, even if you’re not joining in.
I spotted groups gearing up, some learning the ropes from instructors right in the middle of the gorge.
For hikers, the trails wind high above with sweeping views you won’t forget. Some paths pass so close to the rock you can hear climbers chatting as you go by.
Families wandered into the caves, and I noticed guided tours teaching folks about the gorge’s wild geology and local critters.
There’s a real buzz here—a mix of adventure and friendly outdoor spirit.
The Role of National Trust and Conservation
The National Trust plays a big part in looking after Cheddar Gorge. They keep the trails in good shape, protect rare plants, and lead restoration efforts to keep the landscape wild.
As I hiked, I came across signs with tidbits about unique plants and animals you’ll only find here.
Trust staff run events and guided walks, giving visitors a peek into the gorge’s natural wonders and history.
Volunteers pitch in with litter picks, trail repairs, and tracking rare species:
- Maintaining footpaths
- Monitoring rare species
- Running educational programs
I have to say, seeing the Trust’s work in action made the whole place feel welcoming for both people and wildlife.
Nearby Towns and Iconic Landscapes
Cheddar Gorge sits near a handful of historic towns, each with its own quirks and postcard-worthy views.
You’ll find winding old streets, ancient landmarks, and those wide Somerset vistas that stretch on forever.
Day Trips to Wells and Glastonbury
A quick drive took me to Wells, which claims the title of England’s smallest city. Wells Cathedral absolutely wowed me—those medieval arches and the scissor arches are something else.
I wandered across the moat to the Bishop’s Palace. The gardens felt peaceful, with flowers everywhere and a quiet vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Wells is easy to roam on foot. The marketplace buzzes on market days, packed with local food stalls and crafts.
Because the city’s compact, I managed to see the highlights without much effort.
Glastonbury, on the other hand, has a totally different energy. The place oozes mysticism, and the shops are full of oddities and color.
The ruins of Glastonbury Abbey come with all those King Arthur legends. I spent a while wandering among the ancient stones, reading about the centuries of stories woven into the place.
Glastonbury Tor: Myth and Majesty
Just outside the town center, Glastonbury Tor rises above the flat countryside. I started the walk up the green hill and, honestly, it only took about twenty minutes.
But wow, those views—fields and the Somerset Levels stretching out in every direction. At the top, you’ll find the stone tower of St Michael’s Church standing all by itself.
The Tor’s tangled up in legends of Avalon. It’s easy to see why people whisper about it. Up there, it’s quiet, almost haunting, and perfect for a bit of reflection.
I watched the clouds drift and the landscape change as the light shifted. There’s something about this place—mysterious, peaceful, and somehow magnetic. If you’re traveling nearby, it’s absolutely worth the climb.
