Top 5 Caves around Cheddar
Best caves around Cheddar are found in a region renowned for its spectacular gorge and impressive cave systems. This area features significant geological formations, including large caverns and underground rivers. The caves also hold historical importance, with evidence of prehistoric human occupation and the traditional maturation of Cheddar cheese. The landscape offers a combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Best caves around Cheddar
- The most popular caves include Ebbor Gorge, a gorge and cave system. The path through the gorge offers varied terrain, becoming steeper and rockier as it progresses.
- Another must-see spot is Charterhouse SSSI, a natural monument with caves. This area features caves in limestone rock and historical Roman lead and silver mines.
- Visitors also love Goatchurch Cavern, a natural monument and cave. This cavern is set into limestone rock and is considered beginner-friendly, featuring hand railings from its early 20th-century development.
- Cheddar is known for show caves, natural caverns, and limestone formations. The region offers a variety of underground environments to explore, from developed show caves to more natural, challenging caverns.
- The caves around Cheddar are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 170 upvotes and more than 100 photos shared.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Ebbor Gorge
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Cheddar Gorge Climb
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View of Cheddar Gorge
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The gorge is also home to sprawling cave systems and a series of show caves. It's here that the remains of Britain's oldest complete skeleton were found, dating back 9,000 years and appropriately named, 'the Cheddar Man'.
There is also a herd of feral goats in the gorge, which can often be seen halfway up the cliffs or on the top of the eastern cliff, munching plants. Footpaths cover both clifftops and it's easy to explore the area in depth. The village of Cheddar lies at the southern end and has plenty of cafes, restaurants and attractions.
Parking can be a challenge in high season and on bank holidays, not because there's not much, but because it's such a popular place. Drive up the gorge to find more parking outside of the village.
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Goatchurch Cavern
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Goatchurch is a popular cave for beginners and school trips thanks to its general ease and its two entrances. Access is free, however, caving can be dangerous and you shouldn't attempt it without a capable guide if you're new to caving. This cave is considered relatively straightforward but still has technical areas, tight squeezes and shouldn't be undertaken lightly.
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Charterhouse SSSI
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Tips from the Community
As you roll out of Cheddar village on the B3135, pedalling past the bustling shops and famous cave entrances, the climb begins gently. Soon, leaving the village infrastructure behind, you'll enter the awe-inspiring jaws of the gorge itself. Here, feel the road tilt upwards noticeably, averaging around 4-5% for several kilometres. While not brutally steep overall, you'll encounter sections, particularly around the hairpins in the lower-middle part of the gorge, where the gradient kicks up more firmly, possibly reaching 7-10% momentarily. Absorb the truly spectacular experience of climbing between the towering, ancient limestone cliffs that dwarf you on either side. Be aware you'll likely be sharing this world-famous road with tourist traffic also soaking in the views. As you climb higher, feel the immense walls gradually recede and the gradient ease off, signalling your approach to the top of this iconic Somerset climb.
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A great drive through the Gorge, then park in one of the layby's and hike up either side of the Gorge to the top (pretty steep), where you get great views of Cheddar and the surrounding areas. Cheddar itself has a slightly Alpine Village feel to it.
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Great location, beautiful views and beautiful nature!
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Stunning views across the plains of Somerset. can see for absolutely miles on a clear day. Don't be fooled in to thinking it's an easy route I have made. It really isn't. Proper footwear and even poles are recommended. Bring waterproofs as back up shelter, as there are not many places out of the gorge to shelter. Download the route to device also, there is no phone coverage the further in to the gorge you go.
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It says easy everywhere but make no mistake. A reasonable condition is necessary and certainly good shoes, especially in wet weather.
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At almost 400ft (122m) deep and 3 miles long, this is England’s largest gorge, and with its weathered crags and pinnacles, one of our most spectacular natural sites. It plays host to a varied community of specialized plants and wildlife. It has been named the "Finest Example of a Limestone Gorge in Britain” by the British Geological Survey. It is one of the special qualities of the Mendip Hills Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Cheddar Gorge is Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for wildlife and geology, a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) with 5 sites of national archaeological importance designated within the Gorge
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main attractions within the Cheddar cave systems?
The Cheddar area is renowned for its spectacular cave systems, primarily Gough's Cave and Cox's Cave. Gough's Cave is famous for its vast chambers, stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations, the discovery site of 'Cheddar Man', and the unique practice of maturing Cheddar cheese within its consistent 11°C environment. Cox's Cave offers an immersive multimedia experience called 'Yeo's Journey', illustrating the formation of the caves, and is known for its colorful mineral formations.
Are there family-friendly caves to visit around Cheddar?
Yes, several options cater to families. Wookey Hole Caves are a popular family attraction, offering extensive show caves and other activities. Cox's Cave in Cheddar also provides an engaging multimedia experience, 'Yeo's Journey', which is visually stimulating and educational for all ages.
What historical or archaeological significance do the Cheddar caves hold?
The caves around Cheddar are rich in history. Gough's Cave is particularly significant as the discovery site of 'Cheddar Man', Britain's oldest complete human skeleton, dating back approximately 10,000 years. Archaeological evidence also indicates that Upper Paleolithic Magdalenian peoples occupied Gough's Cave around 14,700 years ago. The area of Charterhouse SSSI also features historical Roman lead and silver mines alongside its caves.
Can I experience caving as a beginner in the Cheddar area?
Yes, Goatchurch Cavern is a popular and beginner-friendly option. It's set into limestone rock and even features hand railings from its early 20th-century development. While considered relatively straightforward, caving can be dangerous, so it's recommended to go with a capable guide if you are new to the activity.
What kind of geological features can I expect to see in the caves?
The caves around Cheddar showcase impressive geological formations. Gough's Cave features vast chambers with spectacular stalagmite and stalactite formations, including 'St Paul's Cathedral' and 'Solomon's Temple'. Cox's Cave is known for its intricate formations and sections with colorful stalagmites, displaying hues from black to green, orange, and white due to mineral traces. The Cheddar Yeo, Britain's largest underground river system, also flows beneath Gough's Cave.
What is the best time to visit the caves around Cheddar?
The caves maintain a consistent temperature year-round, making them suitable for visiting in any season. However, to avoid larger crowds, consider visiting during off-peak times, such as weekdays outside of school holidays. The surrounding Cheddar Gorge area is particularly beautiful in spring and autumn.
Are there walking or hiking routes near the caves?
Absolutely. The Cheddar area offers numerous walking and hiking opportunities. You can find various routes, including those around Cheddar Gorge itself. For more detailed options, explore the Hiking around Cheddar guide, which includes routes like the 'Cheddar Gorge loop from Cheddar' and the 'Cheddar Gorge and West Mendip Way Loop'.
What other outdoor activities are available near the Cheddar caves?
Beyond caving and hiking, the region is excellent for cycling. You can find options for both gravel biking and mountain biking. Check out the Gravel biking around Cheddar guide and the MTB Trails around Cheddar guide for routes like the 'Shute Shelve Tunnel – Strawberry Line Tunnel loop' or trails around Rowberrow Warren.
What should I wear when visiting the caves?
Caves maintain a cool, consistent temperature, typically around 11°C (52°F), regardless of the weather outside. It's advisable to wear layers of clothing, even in summer, and comfortable, sturdy footwear with good grip, as surfaces can be damp and uneven.
How long does it typically take to explore the show caves in Cheddar?
Exploring the main show caves, Gough's Cave and Cox's Cave, usually takes between 1 to 2 hours for each, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at each point of interest. This duration often includes listening to audio guides or experiencing multimedia shows. If you plan to visit both, allow at least half a day.
Where can I find parking for the Cheddar Gorge caves?
Parking is available within Cheddar Gorge itself, with several car parks managed by the Cheddar Gorge & Caves attraction. These are typically paid parking facilities. It's recommended to check the official Cheddar Gorge & Caves website for current parking information and prices before your visit.
What is the difference between Gough's Cave and Cox's Cave?
Gough's Cave is the larger of the two, known for its immense natural chambers, impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations, and its historical significance as the site of 'Cheddar Man' and cheese maturation. Cox's Cave, while smaller, offers a more interactive experience with its 'Yeo's Journey' multimedia show, focusing on the geological formation of the caves through light and sound, and is noted for its vibrant, colorful mineral deposits.
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