Staying in Cheddar
Cheddar, with its famous caves and gorge is very conveniently located for many of Somerset’s best attractions. Located in the Mendips, a designated area of outstanding natural beauty, staying in Cheddar is a great choice for walkers, nature lovers, and anyone who appreciates wonderful scenery. It is also the ideal place for anyone looking for an activity break, the cave and gorge are popular with climbers and potholers.
The gorge and caves were formed over millions of years by the effect of water on the limestone hills seeping through fixtures and cracks, eventually widening into tunnels and caverns. Stalagmites grow from the floor of the Cheddar caves and stalactites descend from the roof. Cheddar Gorge is the largest gorge in Britain, more than a mile deep in places. A walk around the upper rim offers some of Somerset’s most spectacular views. Alternatively, you might want to take a ride on the open-top bus that runs through the gorge in the summer months. The area is noted for its varied flora and fauna and birds of prey including, falcons, kestrels, and buzzards.
In the town of Cheddar, you can visit the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company where you can sample many varieties of cheddar cheese and learn how it is made. Cheddar cheese, which has been made here for over 800 years, is still stored in the caves which provide the perfect temperature and humidity for the maturing of the cheese. Also in the town is the Cheddar Sweet Kitchen where you can view the making of traditional favorites.
Staying in Cheddar has never been easier with dozens of hotels, guest houses, and B&B;’s to choose from. In addition, for anyone planning a longer stay, there is a plentiful self-catering accommodation in the surrounding area. There are also several camping and caravan parks nearby.
Cheddar is surrounded by stunning countryside and many pretty villages. Nearby, Axbridge, a small market town, has many beautiful old buildings, a number of which date back to medieval times. The City of Wells and the town of Glastonbury are only a short drive away and are both of great historical interest, each with its own unique character.
The seaside resorts of Weston-Super-Mare and Burnham-on-Sea are also within easy reach. Staying in Cheddar offers endless possibilities to the visitor.
