Cheddar Gorge: Somerset’s Majestic Limestone Ravine and Prehistoric Marvel
Explore England’s largest limestone gorge with dramatic cliffs, ancient caves, and rich prehistoric heritage in the heart of Somerset.
Cheddar Gorge, located in Somerset, England, is England’s largest limestone gorge, carved over a million years ago. Famous for its dramatic cliffs, subterranean caves like Gough’s Cave, and rich prehistoric history including the discovery of Cheddar Man, it offers spectacular views, walking trails, and immersive cave experiences. The site combines natural beauty, geology, and archaeology, making it a top destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventurous visitors.
A brief summary to Cheddar Gorge
- Cheddar, GB
- Duration: 1 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Purchase the Cheddar Gorge & Caves Day Ticket online in advance to access all main attractions including Gough’s Cave and Jacob’s Ladder.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes for trails and the 274-step climb up Jacob’s Ladder to enjoy panoramic views safely.
- Visit early in the day or outside peak summer months to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience.
- Dogs are welcome in the caves and around the gorge but should not be left unattended in vehicles.
- Use the Visitor Information Centre for maps, local insights, and to learn about the gorge’s wildlife and history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Picnic Areas
Getting There
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Train and Bus Combination
Take a train to Weston-super-Mare, approximately 30 minutes by car from Cheddar Gorge. From there, catch the 126 bus to Cheddar village, followed by a 20-30 minute walk to the gorge entrance. Total travel time is around 2 hours. Bus services run regularly but check schedules in advance. Tickets cost about £5-£10.
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Car Travel
Driving from Bristol or nearby cities takes about 45 minutes to reach Cheddar Gorge. Parking is available at the site for a fee of around £6 per day. Arrive early to secure parking, especially in summer. Note that some parking areas are at risk of falling rocks, so use designated lots.
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Walking and Hiking
For active visitors, several walking trails lead into and around the gorge from Cheddar village. The terrain varies from easy paths to steep climbs like Jacob’s Ladder. Walking times range from 1 to 3 hours depending on the route. Suitable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
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 Grandeur Carved by Time
Cheddar Gorge is a breathtaking natural landmark stretching nearly three miles long and plunging almost 400 feet deep, making it England’s largest gorge. Formed during the last Ice Age over a million years ago, meltwater from glaciers carved through the limestone, creating steep cliffs and dramatic pinnacles that define the gorge’s rugged silhouette. The Cheddar Yeo River once flowed through the gorge before disappearing underground, sculpting the famous caves beneath.Ancient Caves and Prehistoric Discoveries
Beneath the towering cliffs lie extraordinary caves such as Gough’s Cave, renowned for its spectacular stalactite and stalagmite formations that have developed over half a million years. These caves hold immense archaeological significance as the site where the 10,000-year-old skeleton of Cheddar Man was discovered, offering a window into early human life in Britain. Visitors can explore these illuminated caverns with audio guides that reveal stories of prehistoric inhabitants and the caves’ geological evolution.Immersive Visitor Experiences and Attractions
Cheddar Gorge & Caves offers a comprehensive visitor experience with a day ticket granting access to multiple attractions including Gough’s Cave, Cox’s Cave, the Museum of Pre-History, and Jacob’s Ladder—a steep climb of 274 steps leading to panoramic views from the clifftop lookout tower. The Museum of Pre-History displays fascinating artefacts unearthed in the area, enriching understanding of the gorge’s cultural heritage. Multimedia exhibits and light installations enhance the cave tours, blending education with entertainment.Scenic Walks and Natural Wildlife
The gorge is crisscrossed by numerous walking trails suitable for different fitness levels, including the famous clifftop walk offering sweeping vistas of the Mendip Hills and Somerset Levels. The surrounding landscape is home to unique wildlife such as feral goats, adding to the natural charm. The Visitor Information Centre provides maps, guides, and insights into local history and wildlife, helping visitors plan hikes or gentle strolls through the gorge’s varied terrain.Accessibility and Visitor Facilities
Cheddar Gorge is open year-round with facilities including accessible toilets, parking for blue badge holders, and wheelchair-accessible areas in the museum and shops. Assistance dogs are welcome, and audio guides are available in multiple languages including braille versions for visually impaired visitors. On-site amenities include cafes, gift shops, and picnic areas, making it a comfortable destination for families and groups.Preservation and Cultural Significance
Designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and part of the Mendip Hills National Landscape, Cheddar Gorge is protected for its unique geology, wildlife habitat, and cultural heritage. Conservation efforts ensure the natural environment and archaeological sites are preserved for future generations. The gorge’s combination of natural wonder and human history continues to captivate visitors and scholars alike.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
- Scenic
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
- Sunrise Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly