One of the wonders of the UK!
Updated: Feb 15
Things to do near Cheddar
Explore the gorge
Cheddar gorge is one of the most spectacular and special places in the UK. Passing through it you can see how unique the landscape is. There are many walks to be endured and enjoyed along the top, with most having thier own special views of the gorge below and the Somerset levels. In the town there is Jacob's ladder, which is a stairway to the top of the gorge. There is an admission fee for Jacob's ladder but it does give you a quicker and more direct route to the top. Alternatively there are plenty of other free routes that you can find signposted.
2. Take a stroll through the village
Surprisingly Cheddar is considered a large village rather than a town despit being of fair size and having plenty to do. The village is picturesque, especially with the unique backdrop of the towering gorge. There is a river that passes through the town adding to the beauty and even a facilitates a feature waterfall. Through the street you will find many shops that cater to tourists, selling local produce such as cheeses, fudge and cider etc. There are plenty of places to eat and riverside pubs to enjoy a beverage beside. There is a main car park (Cliff street car park) at the start of the village beside the river. You will also find dedicated parking for the caves and free car parking up through the gorge however due to Cheddar being so wonderful, these spots are usually snapped up by the abundance of tourists.
3. Visit The Caves
There are several caves with ticketed access in cheddar where you can visit the stunning pinnacles and learn about how our prehistoric ancestors lived in, and utilised them. There is also the museum of prehistory and Jacob's ladder which come with the purchase of a ticket. The caves make quite a unique day out, they are interesting and educational for all, as well as fun.
If you really want the full slice of Cheddar then I recommend visiting the caves and doing the other activities that come with admission.
4. Cheese tour
You can't go to Cheddar without trying the worlds greatest cheese straight from its home! The Cheddar gorge cheese company host a tour of thier dairy and maturing store. They include cheese tasting and you will learn the process of maturing cheese and the traditional methods of making it in the gorge. Cheddar gorge cheese company is primarily a shop, so if you wanted to bring some cheese home as a souvenir you're in the right place! They have a huge range of local cheeses and chutneys to pair.
5. Visit Glastonbury
You may have heard of Glastonbury due to hosting 'the worlds biggest music festival', but on a regular day it still offers plenty! The whole town is full of myth and wonder, it definitely offers something different to other towns. Walk up the Tor to get panoramic views of the Somerset levels, a great spot for a picnic. Traverse the unique shops the town has to offer, from healing crystals to fairy shops... you will find all sorts to ponder upon. The town itself is of good size and has a lot to look at and plenty of food options so you can spend quite some time there, definitely worth a visit.
6. Cheddar market & Car boot
Cheddar market is open from 6am-2pm every Sunday. It's located a mile out from the gorge on a farm with lakeside views. The market is very large and is extremely popular. Like any car boot/market they sell pretty much anything so take a morning to have a look around and see what bargains you can pick up!
Places to eat
La Rocca
La Rocca is an Authentic Italian restaurant. The food is top quality and there is usually a good atmosphere as it stays busy due to being arguably the best restaurant in Cheddar. It is situated in the town, on a small island in the river flowing through the gorge. The drinks menu provides a lot of option and includes wines from the Campagna regions of Italy. If you fancy a taste of Italy during your stay at cheddar and one that is conveniently close to the town then I highly recommend trying La Rocca.
2. The Railway Inn (Thatchers)
Being pretty much a local to this area I like to think I have a good insight to the eateries in the surrounding area. Well this one is my favourite! The Railway inn is owned by Thatchers cider and has a HUGE choice of ciders to drink (when in Somerset...), from the classics to some local gems.
The food can be on the pricey side but you really do get what you pay for, everything is good quality and delicious. The menus are forever changing with the seasons, which I like as you never know what you are going to get. The beer garden is a popular spot when the sun is out. They welcome dogs in the inside pub area, just not in the restaurant section. The restaurant lies along the Strawberry line in Sandford so is very popular with cyclists and walkers having a pit stop.
3. Cheddar strawberries
Cheddar strawberry's are notorious for being juicy and divine! Warrens farm and Seagers sell them alongside Wells rd, when the season is right. You can choose which ones you want, so pick the bigguns if you wish. All of them are hand picked from the strawberry farms in cheddar and are much fresher than what you will find in the supermarket.
Where to stay
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