Cheddar

Limestone cliffs tower 400 feet above your head as you wind through Britain's most dramatic gorge. This isn't just another pretty Somerset village - Cheddar sits at the heart of England's most spectacular geological wonderland, where ancient caves snake deep underground and sheer rock faces create a landscape that feels more Alpine than English.

The famous gorge dominates everything here. Gough's Cave draws the crowds with its cathedral-sized chambers and prehistoric remains, while Cox's Cave offers a gentler introduction to the underground world through The Crystal Quest. Above ground, the drama continues at viewpoints like Castle Rock and Top of the Gorge, where proper hikers are rewarded with views across the Somerset Levels.

Beyond the tourist trail, serious cavers know Cheddar for its technical challenges. East Twin Swallet and Goatchurch Cavern attract experienced potholers, though Pierre's Pot and Rod's Pot are strictly for the hardcore. The limestone here runs deep - there's always another passage to explore.

Rock climbers flock to landmarks like Lion Rock and Black Rock, where the pale limestone offers routes for every grade. It gets busy on sunny weekends, but midweek you'll often have the crags to yourself.

Getting here is straightforward - Cheddar sits on the A371 between Wells and Weston-super-Mare, about 30 minutes from either. The M5 puts you within striking distance of Bristol and Bath too.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense. You're right on the doorstep of the gorge for early morning walks before the coaches arrive, and the Mendip Hills stretch endlessly in every direction. Strawberryfield Park and Cheddar Woods Resort offer luxury bases, while traditional campsites like Petruth Paddocks suit those who prefer canvas to cabins.