Visiting Cheddar Gorge with Grace in April felt like stepping straight into one of Somerset’s most dramatic landscapes. Towering cliffs, winding roads, and a mix of adventure and history made this a day that felt both energising and humbling.
Cheddar Gorge immediately pulls your attention upward. The limestone cliffs rise sharply on both sides, creating a sense of scale that photos never quite capture. Walking through the gorge, with streams flowing nearby and wildflowers lining the paths, felt calm and powerful at the same time.
After checking into a nearby hotel, we wasted no time heading out. The walking routes wind their way through the gorge, revealing new angles and views at every turn. It felt like one of those places where slowing down actually lets you notice more.
Jacobs Ladder was the highlight of the day. The climb is steep, with roughly 274 stone steps carved into the cliffside, and it definitely gets the heart going. The reward at the top is worth every step, with wide views stretching across the gorge below.
Beyond the scenery, Cheddar Gorge carries a deep sense of history, from prehistoric caves to Roman connections. We even squeezed in a game of mini golf nearby, adding a light-hearted break to a day otherwise filled with walking and exploring.
Cheddar Gorge is more than just a scenic stop. It is a place where nature and history sit side by side, offering something whether you want adventure, quiet walks, or simply impressive views. It is easily one of Somerset’s standout locations.
A few highlights to focus on when visiting the gorge.
The sheer limestone cliffs are what stop you in your tracks. Driving or walking through the gorge feels wild and impressive, especially when the light hits the rock faces.
Trails climb high above the gorge and reward you with wide views across Somerset. They can be steep, but the sense of space at the top makes it worth it.
A cool contrast to the cliffs above. The caves feel dramatic and slightly mysterious, with chambers that show just how deep the landscape goes.
Cheddar is famous for its cheese, and tasting it where it comes from feels right. It is a simple stop that adds a local touch to the visit.
At the base of the gorge, the village is a good place to slow down. Small shops, cafés, and pubs make it easy to take a break after exploring.
Keep an eye out for goats on the cliffs and birds circling above. It adds to the feeling that this place is still very much alive.
As the light softens, the gorge takes on a different mood. It is a quiet, memorable way to finish a visit.
Cheddar Gorge is best explored on foot, with parking available nearby for easy access.