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Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company

Discover authentic artisan Cheddar cheese crafted in the heart of Cheddar Gorge with live dairy views and award-winning tastings.

4.5

Nestled in the heart of Cheddar Gorge, the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company is a renowned artisan cheesemaker crafting traditional Cheddar cheese since 2003. Visitors can explore the working dairy, sample award-winning cheeses, and browse a shop filled with locally made preserves and cheese-related gifts. The company offers a unique self-guided experience to watch cheesemaking live, making it a must-visit for cheese lovers and cultural heritage enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company

  • The Cliffs, Cheddar, BS27 3QA, GB
  • +441934742810
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Mixed
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10:30 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 10:30 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10:30 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10:30 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10:30 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 10:30 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the working dairy between 11:30 am and 3:00 pm to watch cheesemaking live and learn about the traditional process.
  • Sample a variety of award-winning Cheddar cheeses at the tasting counter before purchasing your favorites.
  • Plan your visit earlier in the day to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the self-guided experience.
  • Note that the venue is cashless; bring a card for all purchases and entry fees.
  • Check ahead for group booking availability, especially during renovation periods when tours may be suspended.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving to the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company from nearby towns typically takes 20 to 40 minutes. Ample parking is available nearby, though some spaces may require payment. The roads are well maintained but can be busy during peak tourist seasons.

  • Bus

    Local bus services connect Cheddar with surrounding towns such as Weston-super-Mare and Wells. Travel times range from 30 to 60 minutes depending on the route. Bus stops are within walking distance of the Cheese Company, but service frequency varies, so check schedules in advance.

  • Train and Taxi

    The nearest train station is in Weston-super-Mare, about 12 miles away. From there, taxis or local buses provide onward connections to Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company. Train travel time to Weston-super-Mare from major cities varies from 1 to 2 hours, and taxi rides take approximately 25 minutes.

Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

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Discover more about Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company

A Legacy of Artisan Cheese Craftsmanship

Since its founding in 2003, the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company has upheld the tradition of producing authentic Cheddar cheese right in the village of Cheddar. This family-owned, independent artisan cheesemaker prides itself on crafting all its cheese onsite, preserving the heritage and quality that define true Cheddar. The company has earned global recognition for its award-winning products, continuing a legacy deeply rooted in Somerset’s rich dairy farming culture.

Immersive Dairy Experience and Cheese Tasting

Visitors to the Cheese Company can witness cheesemaking firsthand in the working dairy, open daily from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm. This live demonstration offers a fascinating glimpse into the seven-hour process of traditional Cheddar production. The self-guided format allows guests to explore at their own pace, with knowledgeable staff available to answer questions. Adjacent to the dairy, the cheese shop features a tasting counter where a variety of cheeses can be sampled, complemented by locally made preserves, pickles, chutneys, and cheese-related gifts.

The Shop and Visitor Centre Atmosphere

The shop is open every day from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm (with slightly earlier closing times in winter months), welcoming visitors with a warm, friendly atmosphere. It stocks a broad selection of cheeses, including cave-aged, vintage, and oak-smoked varieties, all vegetarian-friendly. The visitor centre enriches the experience with an accompanying film detailing the cheesemaking process, enhancing appreciation for the craftsmanship behind each wheel.

Group Visits and Upcoming Developments

The Cheese Company offers group bookings with discounted rates, ideal for coach tours and private groups, although tours are currently suspended during building renovations expected to complete in spring 2026. These renovations aim to enhance the visitor experience with an improved dairy and visitor centre. Until then, visitors can still enjoy the shop and self-guided dairy viewing.

Location and Local Context

Situated at The Cliffs in Cheddar, Somerset, the Cheese Company is perfectly placed within the dramatic landscape of Cheddar Gorge. This setting combines natural beauty with cultural heritage, making it a popular stop for day-trippers exploring the Mendip Hills. The site offers an authentic taste of Somerset’s rural traditions and artisanal food culture.

Practical Visitor Information

Entry to the shop and tasting area is free, while the dairy viewing has a modest fee (£3.50 adults, £1.50 children). The venue is cashless, accepting card payments only. The company encourages visitors to arrive earlier in the day to avoid crowds and make the most of the experience. The Cheese Company is committed to sustainability by supporting local producers and maintaining traditional cheesemaking methods.

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