Cheddar

Cheddar Village and Gorge

Cheddar is located on the southern edge of the Mendip Hills.

Cheddar Gorge is the largest gorge in the United Kingdom, at 400 feet deep and 3 miles long, and includes several show caves. The gorge has been a centre of human settlement since Neolithic times. It provides a unique geological and biological environment that has been recognised by the designation of several Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Visitors can explore Gough’s Cave, take in the view from Jacob’s Ladder or take a walk around the top of the gorge. There are also opportunities to try rock climbing, abseiling and caving.

The village gave its name to Cheddar cheese and has been a centre for strawberry growing. The crop was formerly transported on the Cheddar Valley railway line, which closed in the late 1960s and is now a cycle path. Cheddar is also the gateway to longer walks and cycle rides on the Mendip Hills.