Cheddar Gorge: England’s Majestic Limestone Ravine and Historic Caves
Explore England’s largest gorge with dramatic cliffs, ancient caves, panoramic views, and world-famous cheese in charming Cheddar village.
Cheddar Gorge, located in Somerset, England, is the country’s largest gorge, stretching nearly 3 miles long and plunging almost 400 feet deep. Renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs, ancient caves, and rich prehistoric heritage, it offers spectacular hiking, climbing, and wildlife spotting opportunities. Visitors can explore famous caves like Gough’s and Cox’s, ascend the iconic Jacob’s Ladder for panoramic views, and sample world-famous Cheddar cheese in the nearby village.
A brief summary to Cheddar Gorge
- Cheddar, GB
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for climbing and walking on uneven terrain, especially if planning to ascend Jacob’s Ladder or explore caves.
- Book cave tours and special events like the Father Christmas Grotto online in advance to secure your preferred time and avoid queues.
- Visit during weekday mornings or late afternoons to enjoy fewer crowds and a more peaceful experience.
- Don’t miss sampling authentic Cheddar cheese at local shops in the village, especially the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company.
- Keep an eye out for the wild goats roaming the cliffs, a unique and iconic feature of the gorge.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Bristol or Bath takes approximately 45–60 minutes via the A38 and A371. Several pay-and-display car parks are available near the gorge and village, with charges around £6 per day. Parking can be limited on busy weekends and holidays.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Cheddar village to nearby towns such as Wells and Bristol, with journey times ranging from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. Buses run regularly but less frequently on weekends and public holidays. From the village, the gorge is a 10–15 minute walk.
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Train + Taxi
The nearest train station is in Castle Cary, about 20 miles away. From there, taxi services take around 40 minutes to reach Cheddar Gorge. This option suits visitors coming from farther afield without a car.
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Cycling
Cycling enthusiasts can approach Cheddar Gorge via local cycling routes from surrounding Mendip Hills areas. The terrain is hilly and challenging, suitable for experienced cyclists. Bike parking is available in the village.
Cheddar Gorge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Cheddar Gorge
Geological Marvel Carved Over Millennia
Cheddar Gorge is a breathtaking natural formation created over approximately one million years. During the last Ice Age, meltwater from glaciers carved deeply into the limestone rock, forming steep cliffs and pinnacles that define the gorge today. The Cheddar Yeo River, once flowing on the surface, gradually disappeared underground, sculpting an extensive cave system beneath the gorge. This geological masterpiece is England’s largest gorge and one of its most spectacular landscapes, offering visitors dramatic scenery and a glimpse into Earth’s ancient past.Exploration of Ancient Caves and Prehistoric Heritage
The gorge is famous for its extensive caves, including Gough’s Cave and Cox’s Cave, which are open to the public as show caves. Gough’s Cave features impressive stalactites and stalagmites and reveals evidence of early human habitation, making it an important archaeological site. Cox’s Cave offers a more theatrical experience with colorful lighting and multimedia presentations illustrating the caves’ formation through the power of water. Visitors can also explore the Museum of Prehistory to learn about the lives of the gorge’s ancient inhabitants.Iconic Jacob’s Ladder and Cliff-Top Walks
A highlight for many visitors is climbing Jacob’s Ladder, a steep staircase of 274 steps leading to the top of the gorge. From the summit, panoramic views stretch across the Somerset Levels and the Mendip Hills. The cliff-top walk from here provides a tranquil escape with stunning vistas and opportunities to spot the famous wild goats that roam the area. This combination of physical challenge and rewarding scenery makes it a must-do experience.Cheddar Village and Cultural Delights
At the base of the gorge lies the charming village of Cheddar, known worldwide for its cheese. Visitors can sample and purchase authentic Cheddar cheese directly from local producers, including the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company. The village also offers shops, cafes, and a visitor information centre that provides maps, walking guides, and insights into the local history, geology, and wildlife. Seasonal events, such as the Father Christmas Grotto in Gough’s Cave, add festive charm.Conservation and Visitor Experience
The National Trust manages the north side of the gorge, working alongside volunteers and local wildlife to conserve this unique environment. The area supports diverse flora and fauna, including rare plants and the iconic feral goats. Facilities include car parks, cafes, restrooms, and accessible walking routes, though some steep paths may be challenging for those with limited mobility. The gorge is open year-round, with cave tours and attractions operating daily, making it an accessible destination for all seasons.Adventure and Nature Combined
Cheddar Gorge offers more than sightseeing; it is a hub for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, cycling, and photography. The rugged terrain and scenic beauty attract adventurers and nature lovers alike. Whether you seek a leisurely stroll along the gorge rim or a vigorous climb up Jacob’s Ladder, the gorge’s dramatic landscape promises an unforgettable experience steeped in natural wonder and cultural heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Birnbeck Pier, Weston-super-Mare
18.1 km
Explore Birnbeck Pier, the unique Victorian pier linking mainland to island, rich with history, wartime secrets, and seaside charm.
The Lookout Lectern
20.9 km
Historic vantage point with sweeping views of Brunel's iconic bridge and Bristol's storied past.
The Matthew of Bristol
21.1 km
Explore Bristol's maritime heritage aboard The Matthew, a historic ship offering breathtaking views and engaging tours of the city's vibrant harbor.
Bristol Harbour Railway
21.3 km
Experience the historic charm of Bristol Harbour Railway, a heritage railway offering scenic rides through Bristol's vibrant docks and maritime history.
William Draper Memorial
21.3 km
Explore Britain’s oldest war memorial, honoring 18th-century soldiers on scenic Clifton Down in historic Bristol.
Statue of Cary Grant
21.3 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
Millennium Square
21.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and cultural richness of Millennium Square, Bristol's premier urban park and social hub.
Victoria Square
21.3 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Victoria Square in Clifton, Bristol – a perfect blend of natural serenity and local culture.
Prince Street Bridge
21.3 km
A working Victorian swing bridge over Bristol’s Floating Harbour, connecting the city centre with the Cumberland Road area and offering quiet views of boats and quays.
Brandon Hill
21.4 km
Explore Brandon Hill, Bristol's picturesque park featuring stunning views, vibrant gardens, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation and adventure.
The Bristol Wheel
21.4 km
Discover breathtaking panoramic views of Bristol from The Bristol Wheel, an iconic attraction that offers a unique perspective of the city's vibrant skyline.
Pero's Bridge
21.4 km
A striking pedestrian bridge honoring an enslaved man's memory and Bristol's complex past with the slave trade.
Bristol Ferry
21.4 km
Discover the scenic beauty of Bristol from the water with Bristol Ferry, a delightful ferry service showcasing the city's stunning waterfront and rich history.
Statue of Ram Mohan Roy
21.4 km
A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
Bristol Aquarium
21.4 km
Discover the enchanting underwater world at Bristol Aquarium, where marine life thrives in captivating exhibits and interactive experiences for all ages.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cheddar Gorge and Caves
0.6 km
Explore the dramatic cliffs, ancient caves, and rich prehistoric heritage of Cheddar Gorge, Somerset’s iconic natural landmark.
Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company
1.1 km
Discover authentic, award-winning Cheddar cheese crafted in the heart of Cheddar Gorge by a family-owned artisan dairy.
North Somerset Bird Of Prey Centre
10.7 km
Experience hands-on encounters with majestic birds of prey and reptiles in a dedicated conservation centre nestled in the heart of Somerset.
Vicar's Cl
11.6 km
Step into Vicars' Close, Wells—the oldest intact medieval residential street in Europe, where history lives in every limestone house and cobbled stone.
Wells Cathedral
11.7 km
Discover Wells Cathedral, England’s pioneering Gothic masterpiece with its iconic West Front, stunning scissor arches, and rich medieval heritage.
Wells Market
11.7 km
Experience the vibrant charm of Wells Market, a historic twice-weekly hub of local produce, crafts, and community events in the heart of Somerset.
The Bishop's Palace & Gardens
11.9 km
Explore 800 years of medieval history, stunning gardens, and tranquil moats at The Bishop's Palace & Gardens in the heart of Wells.
Weston-super-Mare
15.4 km
Experience the timeless charm of Weston-super-Mare’s sandy beaches, iconic pier, and rich Victorian heritage on England’s scenic Bristol Channel coast.
Glastonbury
15.7 km
Glastonbury: Where ancient legends, spiritual mystique, and vibrant festival culture converge in the heart of Somerset.
Glastonbury Abbey
15.9 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Glastonbury Abbey, where history, myth, and spirituality converge in England’s richest medieval monastery.
St Margaret's Chapel
16.0 km
A serene medieval chapel and almshouses in Glastonbury, offering a peaceful retreat steeped in pilgrimage history and artistic spirit.
Chalice Well
16.3 km
Discover the ancient, iron-rich red spring of Chalice Well in Glastonbury—a timeless sanctuary of healing, legend, and spiritual harmony.
White Spring
16.3 km
A mystical Victorian water temple at Glastonbury Tor, honoring sacred calcite-rich waters with shrines, healing pools, and timeless spiritual energy.
Glastonbury Tor
16.4 km
An iconic hill of myth, legend, and breathtaking views, Glastonbury Tor invites you to step into England’s mystical past and spiritual heart.
Pensford Viaduct
17.3 km
Explore the majestic 19th-century Pensford Viaduct, a stunning historic railway bridge soaring above the scenic Chew Valley in Somerset.
Essential places to dine
Souk Kitchen
20.1 km
Experience vibrant Middle Eastern and Mediterranean mezze dishes in a lively Southville setting, perfect for sharing and savoring bold flavours.
COR Restaurant
20.3 km
Vibrant Mediterranean small plates served in a stylish, intimate setting at Bedminster’s acclaimed COR Restaurant.
The Chef's Table
20.4 km
An intimate fine dining experience in Bristol’s historic docks, serving innovative modern British cuisine with expert wine pairings.
The Pump House
20.5 km
Historic waterfront gastropub in Bristol’s Hotwells, blending heritage architecture with fine British dining and scenic harbour views.
Giggling Squid - Clifton
21.0 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and vibrant dining in the heart of Clifton Village at Giggling Squid, Bristol’s beloved Thai restaurant.
The Olive Shed
21.0 km
Mediterranean tapas and seafood with stunning harbour views in a cozy, waterside Bristol setting.
New MoOn On The Quay
21.1 km
Eclectic tapas and global flavors served in a quirky riverside setting with garden charm and inclusive menus in Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
BOX-E
21.1 km
A tiny 14-seat restaurant in Bristol’s Wapping Wharf shipping containers, serving inventive Modern British tasting menus and seasonal dishes in an intimate, industrial-chic setting.
Root
21.1 km
A pioneering vegetable-focused restaurant in Bristol’s waterfront Cargo, blending seasonal flavors with a unique shipping container setting.
New Moon Tapas
21.1 km
A stylish tapas spot in Bristol’s Clifton Village blending global flavours with inclusive, creative small plates and vibrant cocktails.
The Ivy Clifton Brasserie
21.1 km
Elegant British brasserie in Clifton, Bristol, blending local heritage with refined dining and vibrant afternoon teas.
Coppa Club, Clifton
21.1 km
Stylish Italian dining and vibrant social hub in Clifton Village, Bristol, perfect for all-day meals and lively evenings.
Gambas
21.1 km
A vibrant Spanish tapas bar in a harbourside shipping container, serving excellent seafood and classic small plates with great views over Bristol Harbour.
Harbour & Browns
21.1 km
Contemporary fusion dining in stylish shipping containers with harbour views at Bristol’s vibrant Wapping Wharf.
Tare Restaurant
21.1 km
Experience vibrant modern European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting overlooking Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bristol General Store
20.0 km
Independent boutique celebrating local creativity and curated global design in Bedminster.
Independent Design Collective
20.3 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and crafts from Bristol’s vibrant local artists at Independent Design Collective in Southville.
Rhubarb Jumble
20.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique home treasures in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Southville neighborhood.
Home Grown Pop Up Gift Shop at Windmill Hill City Farm
20.9 km
Discover unique handmade gifts by Bristol artists at the vibrant Home Grown Pop Up Gift Shop within Windmill Hill City Farm.
Fig1
21.1 km
Discover Scandinavian-inspired homewares and unique gifts at this independent Bristol gem, where clean lines meet creative curation in the heart of Wapping Wharf.
Movement Boutique
21.1 km
Discover curated designer fashion, jewellery, and homewares in the stylish heart of Clifton, Bristol’s charming historic district.
About Face
21.1 km
Discover curated gifts and artisanal treasures in Clifton's charming village heart, where unique finds meet personal service in a cozy Bristol gem.
Indira Rose Vintage
21.1 km
Discover mid-century magic across three floors in Clifton's chic village—timeless antiques and vintage furniture await in Bristol's premier trove.
The Pod Company
21.1 km
Discover cutting-edge wellness with The Pod Company’s innovative ice baths and sauna pods in the heart of Clifton, Bristol.
Grace & Mabel Ltd
21.1 km
Discover handpicked elegance at Grace & Mabel Ltd, the Clifton Village boutique where three sisters craft a world of timeless fashion, quality, and personal style since 2007.
Something Elsie
21.1 km
Discover vibrant 80s and 90s vintage fashion, dazzling jewellery, and quirky gifts in Bristol’s colorful Something Elsie shop at Cargo 2.
Mint Velvet Bristol
21.2 km
Discover relaxed glamour and personalized style at Mint Velvet Bristol, a chic ladies' boutique in Clifton's fashionable Regent Street.
Orendo
21.2 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion at Orendo, a chic clothes shop in Bristol that embodies the city's vibrant style and trends.
Zhyper
21.2 km
Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
Village
21.2 km
A compact, design-led gift shop in Clifton Village offering locally made homewares, stationery and small-batch finds with a quietly curated, neighbourhood feel.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Royal Oak
16.4 km
A beloved Nailsea pub blending traditional charm with lively sports and hearty fare in a welcoming community setting.
The Cottage Inn, Bristol
20.5 km
Historic harbourside pub offering modern British classics, craft ales, and scenic waterfront vibes in the heart of Bristol.
The Last Word Clifton Village Bristol
21.1 km
Quirky Clifton cocktail haven spanning three cozy floors, perfect for masterful mixes and intimate evenings in Bristol's upscale village.
The Coronation Tap
21.1 km
Bristol's legendary ciderhouse near Clifton Suspension Bridge, famed for potent Exhibition scrumpy, live tunes, and timeless tavern vibes in cozy Clifton.
22 Clifton
21.1 km
A vaulted Clifton wine cellar mixing Georgian bones with a modern wine-bar programme, tastings and sharing plates in an intimate setting.
The Quadrant
21.2 km
Cosy Clifton wine bar with a curated drinks list, small plates and buzzy window seats in the heart of the village.
Bag of Nails
21.2 km
A quirky Bristol pub where hand-drawn art, local ales, and friendly cats create an unforgettable and cozy atmosphere.
The Dirty Bird
21.2 km
A vibrant neon-lit cocktail lounge in Clifton Village, Bristol, mixing classic and creative drinks with a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Slug & Lettuce - Harbourside Bristol
21.3 km
Bristol harbourside cocktail haven with 2-for-1 drinks, bottomless brunches, and waterfront terrace vibes for unforgettable nights out.
Loose Cannon Cocktail Bar - Bristol
21.3 km
Quirky harbourside haven blending pop culture cocktails, local art, and Bristol's playful vibe in a waterfront independent gem.
Steinbeck and Shaw
21.4 km
Bristol's graffiti-glazed cocktail haven where masterclasses, happy hours, and late-night vibes collide in historic style.
The Architect
21.4 km
Art deco café-bar on Bristol's Floating Harbour: coffees by day, cocktails by night, with terrace views of ferries and quayside life.
Shakespeare Tavern
21.4 km
Waterside Bristol pub pouring cask ales, pub classics, and community cheer in a dog-friendly haven with garden vibes.
The Eldon House
21.4 km
Historic Victorian pub in Clifton, Bristol, known for craft beers, live music, and a cozy, vibrant atmosphere.
Barrelhouse
21.5 km
Clifton's hybrid pub where Detroit pizzas, rooftop views, live tunes, and dive-bar cocktails create unrestrained fun in a historic setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
PRYZM
21.4 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Thekla
21.4 km
A converted cargo ship transformed into Bristol’s compact, industrial live-music venue and late-night club, famed for close-up shows and throbbing club nights.
OMG
21.6 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Basement 45
21.6 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
21.6 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
Antix
21.6 km
Bristol's enduring late-night haven on Park Street: cocktails till 1am, DJ beats till 6am, dancing into dawn with house, R&B, and reggaeton vibes.
La Rocca
21.7 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
The Pearl NightClub
21.7 km
Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
Silk Nightclub
21.7 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
21.7 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
Bristol Lola Lo
21.7 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
Lizard Lounge
21.7 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
Popworld - Bristol
21.8 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
Forró Bristol
21.8 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
The Loco Klub
21.9 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly