The Local Area

Exploring

Discover the wonders of Somerset as you roam around the grand Cheddar Gorge and the local area. Your adventure begins here, with quaint towns like Glastonbury, Weston-Super Mare, Bath, and the Cotswolds just a short drive away​​. For a gentle intro, meander through the charming Cheddar Village, where every step unfolds quaint vistas and friendly trails, all within a cozy 2-mile stroll​​. Venture into the heart of England’s scenic marvels with the Cheddar Gorge Walk, where sips of local cider, bites of rich cheese, and the allure of ancient caves await​.

But there’s more than meets the eye; the Gorge’s deep caves offer a glimpse into our ancestral past with their magnificent stalactite formations​. And for a breath of fresh air, follow the National Trust walking route along the Gorge’s iconic cliffs, through secluded limestone valleys, ending in peaceful grassy spots perfect for a picnic​. As you delve into the diverse natural and historical tapestry around Cheddar Gorge, every moment is a step into the serene yet captivating essence of Somerset.

Days Out

Days Out Embark on enriching day trips from the majestic Cheddar Gorge to discover Somerset's diverse attractions. Venture to historic Glastonbury, renowned for its mystical Tor, or the elegant city of Bath, home to the iconic Roman Baths and Bath Abbey. The seaside charm of Weston-Super Mare and the quaint, picturesque scenes of the Mendips await to mesmerize you with their serene beauty. Don't miss a subterranean adventure in Wookey Hole, where world-famous caves tell tales from 45,000 years ago.

For a unique blend of history and local flavor, consider a guided day tour from Bath or Bristol. Your journey could encompass the historic cathedral of Wells, the ancient ruins of Nunney Castle, and the legendary Glastonbury Tor, capped off with a savory Cheddar cheese tasting right from its source. Each destination unveils a facet of the region's rich heritage, making your days out from Cheddar Gorge a delightful blend of discovery and indulgence.

Food and Drink

Delight in Cheddar's diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from traditional pubs to international eateries. Relish classic British fare at The Gardeners Arms or The White Hart, enjoy Italian flavors at La Rocca, or spice things up at Rasoi with Indian cuisine. For a finer dining experience, Franks Restaurant offers modern European dishes, perfect for celebrating special occasions​. Don't miss out on sampling the iconic Cheddar cheese, a specialty of Somerset, epitomizing the region's rich dairy heritage​.

Quench your thirst with locally crafted spirits from Cheddar Spirits Co., where the essence of Cheddar Gorge is captured in small batch gins, vodkas, and liqueurs​​. For a casual bite or a caffeine fix, Cheddar's cozy cafes and tea rooms are a delightful choice. Whether it's a hearty breakfast at Lion Rock Tea Rooms, a cup of Barista coffee at Edelweiss, or a traditional British fare at Tuckers Fish and Chip Shop, each establishment offers a unique taste of Cheddar's welcoming and flavorful food and drink landscape​​.

Wildlife

Cheddar, nestled in the Mendip Hills, is a wildlife lover's delight with its diverse ecosystems. The Cheddar Complex, comprising the Long Wood and Velvet Bottom reserves, offers a glimpse into the area's rich birdlife including peregrine falcons, buzzards, and kestrels, especially along the steep cliffs of Cheddar Gorge. During spring, the woodland floor is a carpet of wildflowers, providing a habitat for a variety of birds and insects. The notable feral goats of Cheddar Gorge add a unique charm to your wildlife exploration.

Efforts like the butterfly conservation project by Somerset Wildlife Trust highlight the community's commitment to preserving and enhancing local biodiversity. he surrounding Mendip Hills further extend the wildlife panorama with their species-rich wildflower meadows and ancient woodlands, making Cheddar a picturesque base for wildlife enthusiasts to explore the natural tapestry of Somerset.

Places to Visit

Glastonbury Tor (8.2 miles) – Full of history, Glastonbury Tor is one of the most spiritual sites in the country.
Sand Point (12 miles) – Perfect for picnics and a day out to discover the local wildlife.
Brean Down (13 miles) – Standing 97 metres high, Brean Down is one of Somerset’s most beautiful days out. Discover the Roman temple, Plamerston Fort or Somerset’s greatest natural pier with a 1.5 mile walk. Brean Down offers views over the Bristol channel toward South Wales and the Somerset Levels.
Clevedon Court (13 miles) – This 14th century manor house & 18th century terraced garden is a remarkable survival form the Medieval period.
Tyntesfield (13 miles) – Within close proximity to Bristol, this Victorian Gothic revival house has beautiful gardens, flower filled terraces and plenty of woodland.
Clarks Village (14 miles) – An outlet shopping village in Street with over 90 high street and designer retailers.
Montacute House (21 miles) – A masterpiece of Elizabethan architecture and design with towering walls of glass and surrounding gardens. Perfect day out of beauty and wonder.
Bristol (22 miles) – Clifton Suspension Bridge, Brunel’s SS Great Britain, Bristol Zoo Gardens, Bristol Cathedral, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Cabot Tower, Bristol harbour and aquarium.
Bath (24 miles) – The Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, Putteney Bridge, The Royal Crescent, Jane Austen Centre, Landsdown Racecourse, Assembly Rooms, Sir William Holburne’s art collection.
Longleat House & Safari Park (29 miles) – Longleat House is the ancestral home of the Marquess of Bath and is a stunning example of traditional Elizabethan architecture. Longleat Safari Park is home to over 500 animals and covers a total of 9,000 acres. Both and great days out within the local countryside.
Cribbs Causeway (32 miles) – The Mall is situated on the outskirts of Bristol and includes over 130 top name stores and a retail park.