Cheddar Gorge Clifftop Walk
Cheddar, Somerset
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cheddar Gorge safe for dogs?
The clifftop walk is safe for dogs but keep them on leads near the unfenced gorge edge. The sheer drops are significant. Away from the edge, dogs can run freely on open grassland.
How steep is the initial climb?
The climb out of the gorge involves about 300 steps (Jacob's Ladder). It is steep but manageable for fit dogs. Once on the clifftop, the walk is mostly gentle.
