Cheddar Gorge - Just Popping Out

Cheddar Gorge

A clifftop walk above one of the UK’s most famous gorges

Somerset / Day Walk

Nestled in the Mendips, Cheddar Gorge is one of the most outstanding natural features of the South West. Below the ground, you can explore the depths of Wookey Hole (and spot the “witch”), but this walk takes you along the heights of the cliffs on the side of the gorge, looking out across the Somerset levels to Glastonbury Tor, and down on the climbers below.

Summary

Time needed

About 1hr (for one side of the loop only

Distance

2 miles (full loop is about 4 miles)

Difficulty

Rough underfoot, with some steep climbs

Cost

Free apart from parking

Parking

Paid parking lower down in the gorge, free on map

Type of Walk

Loop.

Highlights

Walk through the gorge, with cliffs towering over you
Enjoy the far-reaching views across the Somerset levels; spot Glastonbury Tor, Brent Knoll, and Cheddar Resevoir
Spot birds of prey, and the goats!
Finish in Cheddar to enjoy the picturesque town, or to sample some cheddar in Cheddar!

The view from the bottom of Cheddar Gorge

Walking in Cheddar Gorge

There are a couple of loop options available. If you have a little more time, you can take a path up on the left hand side on the way back, which also saves you having to walk up the road. I would also suggest this if you have young children, as the road runs out of pavements/sidepaths about halfway up the gorge. However, if you’re short of time and are comfortable with being on the road, you can use this instead!

Starting at the free car park near the top of the gorge, take the foot path up to the East (left side if you’re looking down the Gorge). This keeps the route free, as you’ll have to pay to go up the staircase at the base of the Gorge, but not if you’re coming down that side!

A steep but relatively short climb takes you up, just make sure to wear shoes that you’re comfortable getting muddy if you’re going in the autumn/winter/spring/British summer…

From here, it’s a straightforward walk down the hill as it slowly turns into the cliffside of Cheddar Gorge, with the circular Cheddar Resevoir straight ahead. Whilst the Gorge is the stunning main event, there are other sights to spot; on a good day, Glastonbury Tor will be visible to your left.

To make your way down, walk towards the small tower. You can climb it for a final peek of the view across the levels, and then make your way down the staircase to the right, and be thankful you’re not climbing up it!