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Cheddar Gorge is Britain's largest gorge, a mile-long limestone canyon cutting through the Mendip Hills. This clifftop walk offers dramatic views down into the gorge from above, through open grassland rich in wildflowers and butterflies.

The Route

Start from the Cheddar Gorge car park and climb the steep steps at the southern end of the gorge. Once on the clifftop, the path follows the rim of the gorge with spectacular views down the 140-metre cliffs to the road below. Continue south across open Mendip grassland before looping back along the western rim. The return offers different perspectives of the gorge and views across the Somerset Levels to Glastonbury Tor.

Dog-Friendly Details

Dogs can be off-lead on the clifftop grassland but must be on leads near the gorge edge, as there are unfenced sheer drops. The terrain is grassy and comfortable underfoot. Wild goats graze the gorge sides - keep dogs under control if you spot them. Carry water as there is none on the clifftop.

Practical Information

Pay-and-display car park in Cheddar village. The initial climb is steep with about 300 steps (Jacob's Ladder). Several dog-friendly pubs in the village for afterwards. The walk can be windy on the exposed clifftop.

2e:T53c,

Cheddar Gorge is the largest gorge in Britain, a dramatic limestone canyon carved by meltwater at the end of the last ice age. The cliffs rise 137 metres on either side of the road, creating one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in southern England.

The Route

Start from Cheddar village and walk up through the gorge along the road (there is a pavement). At the top of the gorge, turn right onto the cliff-top path and follow the West Mendip Way along the rim. The views down into the gorge and across the Somerset Levels are extraordinary. Descend via Jacob's Ladder (274 steps) or the gentler path through Black Rock nature reserve back to the village.

Dog-Friendly Details

Dogs can be off-lead on the cliff-top paths but must be on leads through the gorge itself (road walking). Keep dogs well back from unfenced cliff edges. The cliff-top grassland is easy walking for dogs. No water on the route so carry your own. The descent via Jacob's Ladder requires sure-footed dogs.

Practical Information

Car parks in Cheddar village (charges apply). Several cafes and pubs in the village, many dog-friendly. The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company welcomes dogs in the shop. The gorge caves and adventure activities require tickets but the cliff-top walk is free. Toilets in the village.

2f:T584,

Dog Walks in Somerset

Towns in Somerset

Cheddar

Minehead

All Walks in Somerset