Cheddar Gorge and Caves: England’s Majestic Limestone Wonder
Explore England’s largest gorge with stunning cliffs, ancient caves, thrilling climbs, and rich prehistoric heritage in scenic Somerset.
Cheddar Gorge and Caves, located at The Cliffs in Cheddar, Somerset, is England’s largest gorge, stretching nearly 3 miles and plunging almost 400 feet deep. Famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs, extensive subterranean caves, and rich prehistoric heritage, it offers a mix of natural beauty, adventure activities, and cultural history. Visitors can explore caves like Gough’s and Cox’s, enjoy cliff-top walks, rock climbing, and family-friendly attractions including a museum and café.
A brief summary to Cheddar Gorge and Caves
- The Cliffs, Cheddar, BS27 3QF, GB
- +441934742343
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Purchase a Day Ticket to access all major attractions including Gough’s Cave, Cox’s Cave, the Museum of Prehistory, and adventure activities.
- Wear sturdy footwear for walking the cliff-top trails and climbing Jacob’s Ladder, which is steep but offers spectacular views.
- Visit Gough’s Café to enjoy refreshments and local treats after exploring the gorge and caves.
- Check opening times before visiting, as some facilities may have seasonal hours or closures.
- Bring a camera for iconic photo opportunities at the cliffs, caves, and panoramic viewpoints.
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 Wells, expect a journey of approximately 40 to 60 minutes via A38 and A371. Parking is available near the visitor centre and caves, but spaces can fill quickly during peak times. Parking fees apply, typically around £5-£10 per day.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Cheddar village to nearby towns such as Wells and Bristol, with travel times ranging from 1 to 1.5 hours. Services run several times daily but may be limited on weekends and holidays. Tickets cost approximately £5-£8 one way.
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Train and Taxi
The nearest train station is in Weston-super-Mare, about 20 km away. From there, taxis or local buses can reach Cheddar in 30 to 40 minutes. Taxi fares typically range from £30 to £40.
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Walking
For nearby visitors, walking routes from Cheddar village to the gorge entrance take about 20 to 30 minutes on paved and uneven terrain. Suitable footwear is recommended, and some paths may be steep.
Cheddar Gorge and Caves 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 and Caves
Geological Marvel and Natural Grandeur
Cheddar Gorge is a spectacular natural formation carved over a million years ago during the last Ice Age. Melting glaciers created rivers that gradually eroded the limestone, forming steep cliffs rising nearly 400 feet and a gorge stretching about 3 miles. This dramatic landscape is England’s largest gorge and one of its most iconic natural sights, with weathered crags, pinnacles, and panoramic views across the Somerset Levels. The Cheddar Yeo River now flows underground, contributing to the formation of the extensive cave system beneath the gorge.Fascinating Subterranean Caves and Prehistoric Heritage
Beneath the cliffs lie remarkable caves including Gough’s Cave and Cox’s Cave, which have been important archaeological sites revealing evidence of early human habitation. Gough’s Cave offers an immersive audio tour and features impressive stalactites and stalagmites, while Cox’s Cave presents Yeo’s Journey, a themed experience through its chambers. The Museum of Prehistory on site showcases artifacts and stories from the area’s ancient past, connecting visitors with the region’s rich cultural heritage.Adventure and Outdoor Activities for All Ages
Cheddar Gorge is not just for sightseeing; it offers a range of adventurous activities. Visitors can climb the famous Jacob’s Ladder, a steep 274-step climb to breathtaking viewpoints, or enjoy rock climbing and caving experiences through Rocksport. For thrill-seekers, the Black Cat Freefall provides an exhilarating leap of faith. The cliff-top walk offers a gentler way to soak in the scenery, with trails suitable for various fitness levels and opportunities to spot local wildlife including the famous feral goats.Visitor Facilities and Family-Friendly Attractions
The site is well-equipped with amenities including Gough’s Café, serving light lunches, snacks, cream teas, and drinks. There are accessible toilets, parking options including spaces for blue badge holders, and facilities for families and groups. The area welcomes dogs and offers educational visits, guided tours, and special events. The visitor centre stocks maps, walking guides, and souvenirs, enhancing the experience for those eager to explore further.Conservation and Community Engagement
Cheddar Gorge is cared for by a combination of National Trust efforts and local community projects that focus on preserving its natural beauty and wildlife habitat. Rangers, volunteers, and even grazing animals like sheep and goats help maintain the landscape. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment and support conservation initiatives that protect this unique geological and cultural treasure for future generations.Seasonal Access and Practical Information
The main attractions at Cheddar Gorge and Caves are generally open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with some variations seasonally. Admission to the gorge itself is free, but access to caves and activities requires tickets. The site is accessible year-round, though weather conditions can affect some outdoor activities. Visitors should prepare for steep terrain on some walks and bring suitable footwear. The location offers a strong mobile signal and is suitable for a wide range of visitors including families, solo travelers, and adventure enthusiasts.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Birnbeck Pier, Weston-super-Mare
18.0 km
Explore Birnbeck Pier, the unique Victorian pier linking mainland to island, rich with history, wartime secrets, and seaside charm.
The Lookout Lectern
21.5 km
Historic vantage point with sweeping views of Brunel's iconic bridge and Bristol's storied past.
The Matthew of Bristol
21.7 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
21.9 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
21.9 km
Explore Britain’s oldest war memorial, honoring 18th-century soldiers on scenic Clifton Down in historic Bristol.
Statue of Cary Grant
21.9 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
21.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and cultural richness of Millennium Square, Bristol's premier urban park and social hub.
Victoria Square
21.9 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Victoria Square in Clifton, Bristol – a perfect blend of natural serenity and local culture.
Prince Street Bridge
21.9 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
22.0 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
22.0 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
22.0 km
A striking pedestrian bridge honoring an enslaved man's memory and Bristol's complex past with the slave trade.
Bristol Ferry
22.0 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
22.0 km
A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
Bristol Aquarium
22.0 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 Cheese Company
0.5 km
Discover authentic, award-winning Cheddar cheese crafted in the heart of Cheddar Gorge by a family-owned artisan dairy.
Cheddar Gorge
0.6 km
Explore England’s largest limestone gorge with stunning cliffs, ancient caves, and rich prehistoric heritage in the heart of Somerset.
North Somerset Bird Of Prey Centre
11.0 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
11.5 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 Market
11.6 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.
Wells Cathedral
11.6 km
Discover Wells Cathedral, England’s pioneering Gothic masterpiece with its iconic West Front, stunning scissor arches, and rich medieval heritage.
The Bishop's Palace & Gardens
11.8 km
Explore 800 years of medieval history, stunning gardens, and tranquil moats at The Bishop's Palace & Gardens in the heart of Wells.
Glastonbury
15.3 km
Glastonbury: Where ancient legends, spiritual mystique, and vibrant festival culture converge in the heart of Somerset.
Weston-super-Mare
15.3 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 Abbey
15.5 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Glastonbury Abbey, where history, myth, and spirituality converge in England’s richest medieval monastery.
St Margaret's Chapel
15.6 km
A serene medieval chapel and almshouses in Glastonbury, offering a peaceful retreat steeped in pilgrimage history and artistic spirit.
Chalice Well
15.9 km
Discover the ancient, iron-rich red spring of Chalice Well in Glastonbury—a timeless sanctuary of healing, legend, and spiritual harmony.
White Spring
15.9 km
A mystical Victorian water temple at Glastonbury Tor, honoring sacred calcite-rich waters with shrines, healing pools, and timeless spiritual energy.
Glastonbury Tor
16.0 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
17.8 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
20.7 km
Experience vibrant Middle Eastern and Mediterranean mezze dishes in a lively Southville setting, perfect for sharing and savoring bold flavours.
COR Restaurant
20.9 km
Vibrant Mediterranean small plates served in a stylish, intimate setting at Bedminster’s acclaimed COR Restaurant.
The Chef's Table
21.0 km
An intimate fine dining experience in Bristol’s historic docks, serving innovative modern British cuisine with expert wine pairings.
The Pump House
21.1 km
Historic waterfront gastropub in Bristol’s Hotwells, blending heritage architecture with fine British dining and scenic harbour views.
Giggling Squid - Clifton
21.7 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
21.7 km
Mediterranean tapas and seafood with stunning harbour views in a cozy, waterside Bristol setting.
New MoOn On The Quay
21.7 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
21.7 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.
New Moon Tapas
21.7 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
21.7 km
Elegant British brasserie in Clifton, Bristol, blending local heritage with refined dining and vibrant afternoon teas.
Root
21.7 km
A pioneering vegetable-focused restaurant in Bristol’s waterfront Cargo, blending seasonal flavors with a unique shipping container setting.
Coppa Club, Clifton
21.7 km
Stylish Italian dining and vibrant social hub in Clifton Village, Bristol, perfect for all-day meals and lively evenings.
Gambas
21.7 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
21.7 km
Contemporary fusion dining in stylish shipping containers with harbour views at Bristol’s vibrant Wapping Wharf.
Tare Restaurant
21.8 km
Experience vibrant modern European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting overlooking Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bristol General Store
20.7 km
Independent boutique celebrating local creativity and curated global design in Bedminster.
Independent Design Collective
20.9 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and crafts from Bristol’s vibrant local artists at Independent Design Collective in Southville.
Rhubarb Jumble
21.0 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
21.5 km
Discover unique handmade gifts by Bristol artists at the vibrant Home Grown Pop Up Gift Shop within Windmill Hill City Farm.
Fig1
21.7 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
21.7 km
Discover curated designer fashion, jewellery, and homewares in the stylish heart of Clifton, Bristol’s charming historic district.
About Face
21.7 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
21.7 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
21.7 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
21.7 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
21.8 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
21.8 km
Discover relaxed glamour and personalized style at Mint Velvet Bristol, a chic ladies' boutique in Clifton's fashionable Regent Street.
Orendo
21.8 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion at Orendo, a chic clothes shop in Bristol that embodies the city's vibrant style and trends.
Zhyper
21.8 km
Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
Village
21.8 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
16.9 km
A beloved Nailsea pub blending traditional charm with lively sports and hearty fare in a welcoming community setting.
The Cottage Inn, Bristol
21.1 km
Historic harbourside pub offering modern British classics, craft ales, and scenic waterfront vibes in the heart of Bristol.
The Coronation Tap
21.7 km
Bristol's legendary ciderhouse near Clifton Suspension Bridge, famed for potent Exhibition scrumpy, live tunes, and timeless tavern vibes in cozy Clifton.
The Last Word Clifton Village Bristol
21.7 km
Quirky Clifton cocktail haven spanning three cozy floors, perfect for masterful mixes and intimate evenings in Bristol's upscale village.
22 Clifton
21.7 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
21.8 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
21.8 km
A quirky Bristol pub where hand-drawn art, local ales, and friendly cats create an unforgettable and cozy atmosphere.
The Dirty Bird
21.8 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
21.9 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
21.9 km
Quirky harbourside haven blending pop culture cocktails, local art, and Bristol's playful vibe in a waterfront independent gem.
Steinbeck and Shaw
22.0 km
Bristol's graffiti-glazed cocktail haven where masterclasses, happy hours, and late-night vibes collide in historic style.
The Architect
22.0 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
22.0 km
Waterside Bristol pub pouring cask ales, pub classics, and community cheer in a dog-friendly haven with garden vibes.
The Eldon House
22.0 km
Historic Victorian pub in Clifton, Bristol, known for craft beers, live music, and a cozy, vibrant atmosphere.
Barrelhouse
22.1 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
22.0 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Thekla
22.1 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
22.2 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Basement 45
22.2 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
22.3 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
Antix
22.3 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
22.3 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
The Pearl NightClub
22.3 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
22.3 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
22.3 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
Bristol Lola Lo
22.3 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
Lizard Lounge
22.3 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
Popworld - Bristol
22.4 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
22.4 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
The Loco Klub
22.5 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
- Scenic
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
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
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly