Read this article for the ultimate guide to Cheddar Gorge & Caves, and see what you can do and see during your visit to the wonderful Somerset.
Somerset has hundreds of stunning must-see locations, whether you live there or are just passing through. One of these is the beautiful areas of Cheddar Gorge & Caves, just a 30-minute drive from Brent Knoll – but where do you start? Here, we will go through the ultimate guide to Cheddar Gorge & Caves, so you know where to go, what to do, and when you should experience what it has to offer.
If you would like to experience other parts of Somerset, why not read our guides on fabulous locations such as Brent Knoll, Glastonbury Tor, or the Museum of Somerset? There are also historic houses and museums to visit, like Dunster Castle. Montacute House, or Barrington Court? Stop by attractions or explore the great outdoors to find unlimited things to do in this picturesque county.
Where is Cheddar Gorge, and What is it Known for?
Cheddar Gorge, located just a 45-minute drive south from Bristol, is a popular tourist location in Somerset for all to enjoy. This site features a collection of caves, walks, and amenities, and has also been a popular filming location over the years, with scenes from Jack the Giant Slayer and 28 Years Later taking place there.
The gorge itself is a beautiful limestone gorge in the Mendip hills near Cheddar. The Cheddar show caves are home to Britain’s oldest complete human skeleton, known as the Cheddar Man, who was found in 1903 and is estimated to be around 9,000 years old.
Beautiful cliffs and semi-natural habitats bring visitors to the location year-round. With all kinds of plant life to explore and history to dive into, this popular location has remained a top spot in Somerset.
Visitor Information
Below are the important pieces of information you need to know, from location to entrance fees:
- Location – Cheddar Gorge, Cheddar, Somerset. BS27 3QF
- Opening Times – 10.00am – 5.00pm in mid-May to September; 10.30am-4.30pm from mid-September-April. Closed on Christmas and Boxing Day
- Entrance Fee – free entry to main part of the gorge and walks; Cheddar Caves and Gorge Explorer prices are £9.50 for adults, £6.50 for children, and under 5s are free
- Email Address – caves@cheddarcaves.co.uk
- Telephone Number – 01934 742343
Best Time to Visit?
The best time to visit Cheddar Gorge & Caves is definitely in the summer. However, everyone will have the same idea, so it can get very busy with the warm weather and school holidays. Early autumn and late spring is also pleasant if you want to try and avoid the busiest periods.
You can also visit in the winter, but there may be closures due to weather conditions. Outdoor locations such as Jacob’s Ladder and the Cliff-Top Walk may be off-limits in bad weather conditions, but there will still be plenty to experience.
Whenever you choose to visit, please remember to wear appropriate clothing – particularly some good walking shoes or boots! There is lots to see and explore, and you might end up getting a bit dirty, so bear this in mind before getting in the car.
The Ultimate Guide to Cheddar Gorge & Caves
If you are planning on a visit, you might be interested in the ultimate guide to Cheddar Gorge & Caves before heading off. There is plenty to see and explore in this picturesque location, so let’s see what it has to offer, and what you should be aware of before you leave the house.
Gough’s Cave
For stalagmite and stalactite formations, Gough’s Cave is the number one destination at Cheddar Gorge. Here, you can also visit the site of Cheddar Man’s remains, and see fresh cheddar cheese maturing in the chambers.
Enjoy the audio guide available in six languages as you explore the caves, and select a special version for children accompanying you to get the most out of it.
Cox’s Cave
Explore Cox’s Cave alongside a tour and the virtual guide ‘Yeo’. Here, you will be immersed in the history and formation of the caves through the help of projections and animations on the cave walls. State-of-the-art sound and lighting create an unbelievable experience, and tells you about the importance of the environment and protecting our natural resources.
As the oldest of the two show caves, Cox’s Cave was discovered accidentally in 1837 when a crowbar was dropped into a hole at the top of the cliff, leading to its discovery.
Jacob’s Ladder and the Lookout Tower
If you have some energy to waste, the 274 steps it takes to scale the gorge will be enough to tucker you out – but don’t worry, there are plenty of resting spots along the way. From the top, you can enjoy the stunning views of the Mendips and Somerset Levels.
For those who want to go the extra distance, climb the additional 48 steps of the Lookout Tower for an even more breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
Cliff-Top Walk
From the top of Jacob’s Ladder, there is a beautiful 3-mile long Cliff Top Walk for everyone to enjoy and let out more energy. This is well worth the effort, even if you don’t have time (or energy for the full walk – even starting it grants scenic views.
Within 10–15 minutes, you will get a breathtaking view of the whole gorge. Sit and enjoy it for a while, especially on a sunny day. This walk is the perfect way to finish off a day at the gorge, or keep the adventure going and visit one of the amenities!
Amenities to Visit
If you want to take a break from the active exploring and walks, there are a selection of amenities to enjoy at Cheddar Gorge & Caves, too. From cafés to watching cheese get made, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
Below are the amenities we encourage you to stop by:
- Gough’s Café – located near the entrance of Gough’s Cave, this café is the perfect spot to sit back and relax while you enjoy hot or cold drinks (including alcoholic beverages) and dig into snacks, light lunches, and cakes.
- Museum of Prehistory – explore the Museum of Prehistory and learn about the artefacts uncovered in the area that tell us about how people lived thousands of years ago.
- Beyond the View – learn the history, stories, and wildlife associated with Cheddar Gorge through the 270-degree screen.
- Escape Rooms – suitable for anyone 12 or older, you can put your brain to the test and try your hand at the two escape rooms: Caved In, and The Vault.
- Rocksport – suitable for anyone 8 or older, Rocksport is perfect for everyone who wants to imagine climbing the rock face, free-falling, or caving.
- Live Cheddar Making – if you want a quick break from the Gorge and Caves, stop by the Cheddar Cheese Visitor Centre in the village of Cheddar to watch real cheddar being made, and even partake in some delicious, free cheese-tasting!
Answering Your Questions
Are Dogs Allowed?
Yes! Cheddar Gorge welcomes dogs to all attractions. There are also water bowls provided on the café patio, shop entrances, and cave entrances to ensure your furry friend stays hydrated.
Is Cheddar Gorge Family-Friendly?
Yes, Cheddar Gorge & Caves are family friendly, and perfect for a day out for any family. There are play areas for under twos, baby changing facilities, and buggy parking for those who need it. We are also a breast-feeding friendly space, and offer high chairs, and free water refills.
Are There Group Discounts?
Yes, there are group rates and discounts to enjoy. There is also coach parking and drop-off points for group touts to make things easier for you. Exclusive discount options are available for Rocksport adventure activities such as free-fall, rock climbing, and adventure caving.
Spend the Night at Apple Tree Hotel
After a day of exploring Cheddar Gorge & Caves, why not make the short journey to Apple Tree Hotel for the night? Located less than an hour away, you can relax or dine with us as a way to unwind. With a variety of meeting rooms and bedrooms available, including four-poster, single, double, twin, and family options, there will be something for everyone.
For more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us, or read more about the Apple Tree Hotel in our news section.
We hope the ultimate guide to Cheddar Gorge & Caves has been helpful, and you now feel comfortable to start planning your next adventure at this historic location.