Cheddar Caves and Gorge

Somerset, Devon, England South West

Recommendation added: 23/01/2006 14:06
By: sweety (YSUK rating +131)

sweety has been thanked 6 times for this contribution

"Cheddar Caves and Gorge is situated in Somerset, I can promise you that this is an experience you will never have had before. When you are walking through the caves it can seem a little damp and dark so young children may feel a little uneasy. I was fascinated by the amazing natural structure of the caves.

Cheddar Caves and Gorge have been a major tourist attraction for over 200 years, with plenty to do above and below ground. Outstanding Natural Beauty, where you'll find many rare species. The Cathedral-like Caves and Britain's biggest Gorge are million-year-old Ice Age river beds. Your ancestors have lived here for 40,000 years, and world-famous Cheddar Man is Britain's oldest complete skeleton.

You can purchase one ticket called the Explorer Ticket and it will enable you to visit all the sites listed below.
Gough's Cave

The Cheddar Man Museum
Here you can meet Cheddar Man - Britain's oldest complete skeleton. Also there is now a exhibition which explain why people used to eat each other resulting in Cannibalism. Also many other interesting if sometimes shocking facts about the Stone Age, so be prepared.
Cox's Cave
The Crystal Quest

Jacob's Ladder
Well I can certainly remember doing this particular activity. How could you forget climbing a hillside flight of 274 steps. Without a doubt this was very hard work with plenty of stopping in between. I glad to say I wasn't the only person to either. When you finally reach the top you are at the Lookout Tower and the cliff top Gorge Walk. This is Britain's Biggest Gorge to the from bottom to top. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and carry a drink with you, you are going to need it. It is well worth it though the scenery is spectacular and one not to be missed.

Pavey's Lookout Tower

The Cliff top Gorge Walk
I actually walked this and it is a 3-mile circular route where you can explore
the 300-acre managed grassland estate, returning through
National Trust land across the Gorge. There are picnic areas too so you can eat while admiring the amazing views. Especially as these are Britain's highest inland cliffs. Although you really have to be in quiet good physical shape to walk the 3 miles.
The Open-top Gorge Tour

The price may have varied slightly:
Adults - £10.90
Children (5-15yrs) - £7.90
Children under 5yrs - Free
Family Discount Ticket 2 Adults and 2 Children - £29.70

After all these activities you can relax and have a bite to eat and a drink at the Explorers Café-Bar. You can enjoy the views from the windows of the café of the gorge in all its glory. The food is very nice and staff are extremely friendly.

Also At Cheddar Gorge they hold special Events throughout the year so check before going to see what you can see while there.

The Caves are open every day except Christmas Eve & Day
July to August 10:00 am - 5.30 pm
last entry to each attraction 5.00 pm
September to June 10:30 am - 5.00 pm
last entry to each attraction 4.30 pm

For more information please see below:
Cheddar Caves & Gorge, Cheddar, Somerset, BS27 3QF Tel: (0)1934 742343
email: caves@visitcheddar.co.uk
Website: www.cheddarcaves.co.uk"