Cheddar Gorge and Caves: Somerset’s Majestic Limestone Wonder
Explore the dramatic cliffs, ancient caves, and rich prehistoric heritage of Cheddar Gorge, Somerset’s iconic natural landmark.
Cheddar Gorge and Caves is a breathtaking natural landmark in Somerset, England, featuring dramatic limestone cliffs, extensive subterranean caves, and rich prehistoric heritage. Visitors can explore six main attractions including Gough’s Cave with its spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, the Museum of Prehistory, Cox’s Cave, Jacob’s Ladder, the Lookout Tower, and a scenic cliff-top walk. This dog-friendly destination offers immersive experiences, stunning views, and facilities for all ages.
A brief summary to Cheddar Gorge and Caves
- The Cliffs, Cheddar, BS27 3QF, GB
- +441934742343
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 5 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
- Arrive before 11am to secure parking and avoid peak crowds.
- Pick up an audio guide at Gough’s Cave to enhance your understanding of the cave’s history and geology.
- Wear sturdy footwear for the cliff-top walk and Jacob’s Ladder climb.
- Dogs are welcome throughout the gorge and caves; water bowls are provided for them.
- Visit Gough’s Café for refreshments and enjoy the outdoor patio with stunning views.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Bristol takes approximately 35 minutes via the A38 and B3135. On-site parking costs £6 per day or £4 after 3pm, with free parking for disabled visitors. Parking is limited and can fill quickly, so early arrival is recommended.
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Bus
Regular bus services connect Cheddar from nearby towns such as Wells and Bristol, with journey times ranging from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. Check local timetables for frequency and accessibility; some routes may have limited weekend service.
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Train and Taxi
The nearest train station is in Axbridge, about 6 miles away. From there, taxis are available with a 15-minute ride to Cheddar Gorge. This option is suitable for visitors preferring rail travel combined with a short taxi transfer.
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 Iconic Landscape
Cheddar Gorge is a spectacular limestone gorge carved by natural forces over millennia, situated in the Mendip Hills of Somerset. Its towering cliffs rise dramatically, creating one of Britain’s most impressive natural landmarks. The gorge’s rugged terrain and sheer rock faces offer a unique outdoor experience, attracting hikers, climbers, and nature lovers alike. The surrounding landscape is rich in biodiversity and provides panoramic views that captivate visitors year-round.Ancient Caves and Prehistoric Discoveries
Beneath the cliffs lie the famous Cheddar Caves, including Gough’s Cave and Cox’s Cave, which reveal a fascinating subterranean world of stalactites, stalagmites, and intricate rock formations. Gough’s Cave is renowned for its cathedral-like chambers and a captivating light installation that enhances its natural beauty. The caves hold significant archaeological importance, being the site where the 10,000-year-old Cheddar Man skeleton was discovered, offering insights into Stone Age life and DNA heritage. The Museum of Prehistory nearby showcases these findings and the region’s rich human history.Visitor Attractions and Experiences
Visitors gain access to six main attractions with a Day Ticket: Gough’s Cave (with an audio guide), Cox’s Cave featuring Dreamhunters, the Museum of Prehistory, Jacob’s Ladder, the Lookout Tower, and the Cliff-Top Walk. The Cliff-Top Walk is a scenic 3-mile trail offering breathtaking views of the gorge and surrounding countryside. The Lookout Tower provides a vantage point to appreciate the vastness of the landscape. For those seeking a challenge, Jacob’s Ladder is a steep climb up a series of steps carved into the rock.Facilities and Accessibility
Cheddar Gorge welcomes visitors of all ages and abilities, including dogs which are allowed throughout the gorge, caves, and outdoor areas. Facilities include Gough’s Café, offering light meals and refreshments with outdoor seating and dog-friendly water bowls. Accessibility features include ramps, level access to the museum, shop, and café, as well as parking for disabled visitors. The attraction also provides audio guides in multiple languages and braille, induction loops for hearing-impaired visitors, and baby changing facilities.Practical Information and Visitor Tips
The Gorge is open daily from 10am to 5pm (extended to 6pm on weekends and summer months), with winter closures on Mondays. Parking is available on-site for £6 per day or £4 after 3pm, with free parking for disabled visitors. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure parking and to be cautious of falling rocks. The site offers a safe and engaging environment for families, hikers, and history enthusiasts alike, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature, learn about prehistoric times, and experience the dramatic scenery.Natural Beauty and Conservation Efforts
Cheddar Gorge is not only a tourist attraction but also a protected natural area, managed to preserve its unique geological features and wildlife habitat. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining the integrity of the cliffs and caves, ensuring that visitors can enjoy this natural wonder sustainably. The site encourages responsible tourism practices, including respecting wildlife, staying on designated paths, and minimizing environmental impact.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
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly