Description
On the edge of the Somerset Levels, Cheddar’s elevation soars 500 feet to the top of Cheddar Gorge. Home to the country’s highest inland cliffs, Cheddar boasts one of Great Britain's most impressive landmarks alongside world-famous produce.
Cheddar
Things to do in Cheddar, Somerset - Visitors to the village of Cheddar and Cheddar Gorge have been astounded by Cheddar’s magnificent limestone Gorge for centuries. Cheddar Gorge can be viewed from the public road running through the ravine or by footpaths along the top of the cliffs where you can drink in spectacular 360° views of the Mendip Hills.
Formed over one million years ago during the last ice age, Cheddar Gorge and Cheddar Caves are available to explore and are home to prehistoric findings including Britain’s oldest complete skeleton, the Cheddar Man. Unsurprisingly, Somerset’s impressive gorge boasts three impressive titles: a Site of Special Scientific Interest, a Special Area of Conservation, and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
However, it’s not just the iconic landscape that puts Cheddar on the map: Cheddar cheese is world famous and the traditional method of cheese making can still be seen at the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company. Before you leave, stop at the gift shop to pick up authentic Cheddar cheese - matured in Cheddar’s Gough's Cave itself.
Head down to the Lower Gorge and village for gentle riverside walks, quaint tearooms, and a variety of restaurants and cafés. Cheddar village boasts ancient architecture including the remains of a saxon palace, old market cross and Minster Church as well as charming gift shops, toy museum and crazy golf course.
Nearby Cheddar reservoir is a fantastic place to spot wildlife or take a gentle bike ride. If you’re looking for a longer cycle route, take The Strawberry Line’s 10-mile path from Cheddar to Yatton. The former railway line opened in 1869 and was essential for transporting famous Cheddar strawberries, as well as passengers - making it the ideal way to take in stunning Somerset landscapes.
Road Directions
How to get to Cheddar
By car: Cheddar is 20 minutes from the M5, between Weston-super-Mare and Burham-on-Sea. Exit the motorway at Junction 21 and follow signs for Cheddar.
By train and bus: Rail services run to Bath, Bristol, Weston-super-Mare and Bridgwater. You’ll find bus connections to Cheddar from each station.
By air: Bristol Airport is 10 miles from Cheddar and bus services operate between the airport and the village.
Contact
Cheddar
Cheddar
Somerset
BS27
United Kingdom