Log Cabins near Cheddar, Somerset

The Somerset village of Cheddar is best known among the culinary crowd for its eponymous cheese, but nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts know it for the spectacular Cheddar Gorge and the Cheddar Caves. Cheddar has a couple of places to camp—a well-equipped caravan park as well as a campsite with cabin accommodation—and its location at the foot of the Mendip Hills AONB affords additional camping options. While campers can enjoy the peace and quiet of this rural area, Cheddar is also conveniently close to the small cities of Bridgwater and Taunton, as well as the larger centres of Bath and Bristol.

You don’t have to use too much imagination to think of the most popular things to do in Cheddar.

Firstly, there’s saying “cheese” at the gorge, and then there’s gorging yourself on cheese! A ticket to visit the Cheddar Gorge tourist attraction includes entrance to a three-mile cliff-top walk around the top of the gorge; the Museum of Prehistory; and Gough’s Cave, where Cheddar Man, the oldest complete skeleton in Britain was discovered. The soaring Cheddar Gorge walls reach 400 feet in places, and the show caves are just a taste of what lies beneath the Mendips, making climbing and caving popular activities here.
In the village of Cheddar, at the lower end of the gorge, the Cheddar Gorge Company shares information about the cheese-making process for Britain’s best-loved cheese.
Walking, cycling, and horse riding are good ways to enjoy the landscape and terrain.
Another show cave and more family-friendly attractions can be found at nearby Wookey Hole.
Further afield, Wells, Glastonbury, Longleat Safari Park, and Bath are all within an hour’s drive and easily visited on days out during a camping holiday in Cheddar.

96% (312)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Somerset village of Cheddar is best known among the culinary crowd for its eponymous cheese, but nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts know it for the spectacular Cheddar Gorge and the Cheddar Caves. Cheddar has a couple of places to camp—a well-equipped caravan park as well as a campsite with cabin accommodation—and its location at the foot of the Mendip Hills AONB affords additional camping options. While campers can enjoy the peace and quiet of this rural area, Cheddar is also conveniently close to the small cities of Bridgwater and Taunton, as well as the larger centres of Bath and Bristol.

You don’t have to use too much imagination to think of the most popular things to do in Cheddar.

Firstly, there’s saying “cheese” at the gorge, and then there’s gorging yourself on cheese! A ticket to visit the Cheddar Gorge tourist attraction includes entrance to a three-mile cliff-top walk around the top of the gorge; the Museum of Prehistory; and Gough’s Cave, where Cheddar Man, the oldest complete skeleton in Britain was discovered. The soaring Cheddar Gorge walls reach 400 feet in places, and the show caves are just a taste of what lies beneath the Mendips, making climbing and caving popular activities here.
In the village of Cheddar, at the lower end of the gorge, the Cheddar Gorge Company shares information about the cheese-making process for Britain’s best-loved cheese.
Walking, cycling, and horse riding are good ways to enjoy the landscape and terrain.
Another show cave and more family-friendly attractions can be found at nearby Wookey Hole.
Further afield, Wells, Glastonbury, Longleat Safari Park, and Bath are all within an hour’s drive and easily visited on days out during a camping holiday in Cheddar.

96% (312)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Cotswolds Glamping

100%

(5)

121km from Cheddar · 4 units · Glamping · Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, South East England

Fun, laid-back, glamping that's ideal for groups, with silent discos and wood-fired hot tubs.

2. Celtic Woodland Holidays

99%

(136)

106km from Cheddar · 13 units · Tents, Glamping · Powys, Mid Wales

An idyllic, wooded, Wye Valley escape, offering glamping pods, a treehouse and traditional woodland camping on levelled pitches

3. The Greenhouse Spa Retreat

100%

(12)

139km from Cheddar · 4 units · Glamping · St Mellion, England

Garden glamping with an eco-friendly spa and sauna, all a 20-minute drive from Plymouth

4. Stowford Manor Farm Campsite

87%

(39)

35km from Cheddar · 51 units · Glamping · Trowbridge, England

We are a family run farm situated in the beautiful Frome valley. The farm has a range of interests from the traditional Jersey milking cows to a community of workshops used by local craftsmen. The cafe serves cream teas from Easter to the end of September and pizzas are sold in evenings during the summer months. Ours is a small family run camp site with the River Frome on one side, next to the medieval buildings of Stowford Farm. The river is suitable for fishing, boating, swimming and paddling. Historic Bradford-on-Avon is only a 5 minute drive and the City of Bath 15 minutes. For those who enjoy more rural pleasures, 200 metres from the campsite Farleigh Hungerford boasts the only river swimming club in the country, and you can become an instant member for a very small fee.

5. Buzzard Holt Hosting

100%

(7)

148km from Cheddar · 13 units · Glamping · Buckingham, England

Glamping with a mini outdoor spa on the edge of Stowe Park in Buckinghamshire

6. The T Barn

99%

(90)

80km from Cheddar · 17 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Cirencester, Gloucestershire, South West England

Bell tents and shepherd’s huts with hot tubs on a picturesque Cotswolds farm near Cirencester

7. Cowpots Camping

100%

(71)

140km from Cheddar · 22 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Ciffig, Wales

Camping with 'en-pitch' facilities on a working farm that produces the finest homemade ice-cream for miles

8. The Enchanted Wilderness

93%

(43)

134km from Cheddar · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Yelverton, England

Simple riverside camping pitches in the Tamar Valley on the edge of Dartmoor

9. Bredon-Vale Caravan and Camping

99%

(47)

110km from Cheddar · 3 units · Glamping · Evesham, England

Laid-back glamping near Evesham, overlooking Bredon Hill and the Malverns.

10. Mill House Equestrian Centre

100%

(1)

42km from Cheddar · 4 units · Glamping · England

Rural & peaceful riverside hotel rooms, set in a private field surrounded by nature in the Somerset Countryside! An idyllic countryside getaway just 10 minutes from j26 of the M5. Toast marshmallows under the stars on your own outdoor fire-pit Choose from our Riverside Retreat, Sunset Shepherds Hut, or our a beautiful new units; Lakeside Lodge & Waterside Cabin.

11. Farrs Meadow

96%

(141)

75km from Cheddar · 31 units · Tents, Glamping · Dorset, South West England

A charming Dorset campsite overlooking the Stour Valley and a short walk from both the river and the market town of Wimborne Minster

12. Penylan Cider Farm

96%

(24)

74km from Cheddar · 3 units · Motorhomes, Glamping · Pontrilas, Wales

Pitches and tiny home glamping on a cider farm in Herefordshire

13. Llandyfan Camping

100%

(15)

103km from Cheddar · 29 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England

Our beautiful home is a glamping and camping site with its own gorgeous fishing lake on the outskirts of the village of Llandyfan. You can find us to the west of the Brecon Beacons or Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. Llandyfan Campsite has been lovingly re-established in early 2024 by Andy and Jo. Since taking ownership, we have rolled up our sleeves and got stuck into restoring it to its former glory and will soon be back to being a fully operational slice of Welsh heaven. Our first focus has been the fishing lake which we opened in March. The campsite followed in May. We are currently working on electric hook ups and other improvements. We have chickens on site that roam free during the day. They are friendly and like to wander around the tents to say hello to our guests! We would like everyone who visits to have a great time and a relaxing break. Whilst here please be considerate towards others, to their property, and while using the facilities. If you have any concerns, please let us know. We have brought out a few rules from our T&Cs and we kindly ask that you have a read through before your stay. Litter: You must pick up your litter. Please either take it with you or recycle it appropriately in the bins onsite. There are bins around the campsite, please recycle where possible. Pitches to be left as you found them. Noise: Be respectful and consider your neighbours. Keep noise to a minimum after 10pm and before 8am in the morning. No loud music is to be played at any time. Children: Children must be supervised at all times around the campsite and can play within the pitch space allocated to you. At quiet times, it may be possible for children to use vacant pitches for play but this cannot be guaranteed. The amenity block and associated facilities are not to be used as a play area. Dogs: Must not to be left unattended. Are to be kept on leads at all times whilst on the campsite. (We are working on an enclosed dog walking area, however this is not yet available). no refunds on bookings if cancelled withing 10days of booking

14. Hideaway Hut, Camping cabin.

99%

(85)

51km from Cheddar · 4 units · Glamping · Gloucestershire, South West England

Magical, secluded glamping in the Wye Valley, yards from the Offas Dyke trail

15. Walnut Farm Glamping

97%

(39)

56km from Cheddar · 8 units · Glamping · Bridport, Dorset, South West England

Cosy en-suite yurts with acres of space, campfires, a hot tub and wild swimming on site.

16. Capel Cathy

100%

(4)

116km from Cheddar · 1 unit · Glamping · Brierley Hill, England

Capel Cathy is a unique and tranquil sanctuary up in the hills on the border of England and Wales. It is bespoke traditionally built timber framed cabin on wheels with stunning views, set in a beautiful, wild garden surrounded by coppice and wildlife. With a big veranda, outdoor bathroom equipped with large bath and woodturning stove to keep you cosy, you will easily deeply relax underneath the starry skies, waking up to the beautiful birdsong and sunrises - the views are magnificent.

17. Cottage Orne

100%

(11)

64km from Cheddar · 1 unit · Glamping · Dorchester, England

A cabin with views on a private country estate in Dorchester

18. Bechan Retreats

100%

(2)

144km from Cheddar · 4 units · Glamping · Powys, England

Luxury glamping lodges with hot tubs and sprawling views across Mid Wales' Elan Valley.

19. Cholderton Estate, near Stonehenge

90%

(20)

78km from Cheddar · 3 units · Glamping · Salisbury, England

Quirky accommodation on a 2,500-acre nature-filled estate, just 15 minutes from Stonehenge

20. Strawfields Cabins and Camping

100%

(26)

93km from Cheddar · 14 units · Tents, Glamping · Titching Park Lane, England

Camping and rustic glamping with campfires on an idyllic smallholding close to North Devon’s best-loved beaches

Camper favorites near Cheddar

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Llandyfan Camping

100%

(15)

103km from Cheddar · 29 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England

Our beautiful home is a glamping and camping site with its own gorgeous fishing lake on the outskirts of the village of Llandyfan. You can find us to the west of the Brecon Beacons or Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. Llandyfan Campsite has been lovingly re-established in early 2024 by Andy and Jo. Since taking ownership, we have rolled up our sleeves and got stuck into restoring it to its former glory and will soon be back to being a fully operational slice of Welsh heaven. Our first focus has been the fishing lake which we opened in March. The campsite followed in May. We are currently working on electric hook ups and other improvements. We have chickens on site that roam free during the day. They are friendly and like to wander around the tents to say hello to our guests! We would like everyone who visits to have a great time and a relaxing break. Whilst here please be considerate towards others, to their property, and while using the facilities. If you have any concerns, please let us know. We have brought out a few rules from our T&Cs and we kindly ask that you have a read through before your stay. Litter: You must pick up your litter. Please either take it with you or recycle it appropriately in the bins onsite. There are bins around the campsite, please recycle where possible. Pitches to be left as you found them. Noise: Be respectful and consider your neighbours. Keep noise to a minimum after 10pm and before 8am in the morning. No loud music is to be played at any time. Children: Children must be supervised at all times around the campsite and can play within the pitch space allocated to you. At quiet times, it may be possible for children to use vacant pitches for play but this cannot be guaranteed. The amenity block and associated facilities are not to be used as a play area. Dogs: Must not to be left unattended. Are to be kept on leads at all times whilst on the campsite. (We are working on an enclosed dog walking area, however this is not yet available). no refunds on bookings if cancelled withing 10days of booking

Hideaway Hut, Camping cabin.

99%

(85)

51km from Cheddar · 4 units · Glamping · Gloucestershire, South West England

Magical, secluded glamping in the Wye Valley, yards from the Offas Dyke trail

Walnut Farm Glamping

97%

(39)

56km from Cheddar · 8 units · Glamping · Bridport, Dorset, South West England

Cosy en-suite yurts with acres of space, campfires, a hot tub and wild swimming on site.

Capel Cathy

100%

(4)

116km from Cheddar · 1 unit · Glamping · Brierley Hill, England

Capel Cathy is a unique and tranquil sanctuary up in the hills on the border of England and Wales. It is bespoke traditionally built timber framed cabin on wheels with stunning views, set in a beautiful, wild garden surrounded by coppice and wildlife. With a big veranda, outdoor bathroom equipped with large bath and woodturning stove to keep you cosy, you will easily deeply relax underneath the starry skies, waking up to the beautiful birdsong and sunrises - the views are magnificent.

Cottage Orne

100%

(11)

64km from Cheddar · 1 unit · Glamping · Dorchester, England

A cabin with views on a private country estate in Dorchester

Bechan Retreats

100%

(2)

144km from Cheddar · 4 units · Glamping · Powys, England

Luxury glamping lodges with hot tubs and sprawling views across Mid Wales' Elan Valley.

Cholderton Estate, near Stonehenge

90%

(20)

78km from Cheddar · 3 units · Glamping · Salisbury, England

Quirky accommodation on a 2,500-acre nature-filled estate, just 15 minutes from Stonehenge

Strawfields Cabins and Camping

100%

(26)

93km from Cheddar · 14 units · Tents, Glamping · Titching Park Lane, England

Camping and rustic glamping with campfires on an idyllic smallholding close to North Devon’s best-loved beaches

Stories from the community

Jasmine

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Llandyfan Camping

A lovely stay on a nice quiet campsite. Would visit again :)

A

Andy

October 2025

With kids

2 nights at Cholderton Estate, near Stonehenge

Really nice unit, cosy, but with all mod cons for a couple of nights. Get the hot tub option, you will regret it otherwise!

C

Crystal

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cholderton Estate, near Stonehenge

We had a really lovely stay in the Bustard Hut. It was peaceful, quaint, and beautifully designed. The interior was unique and thoughtfully put together, and the hut had great facilities considering its limited kitchen space. The little touches like the marshmallows, bread, and condiments were very much appreciated. The only downsides were that the hut wasn’t quite as private as it appeared in the pictures, as we could see and be seen by the neighbouring hut from the hot tub, which wasn’t quite what we imagined. Also, there weren’t any trolleys available on arrival, so there was a lot of back and forth with bags since you can’t park next to the hut. A few things that would be useful to have are some barbecue tools and maybe a fire mitt, as we had to use kitchen utensils to manage the fire. Overall, we had a lovely stay and really enjoyed the thoughtful touches throughout.

S

Simon

September 2025

With pets

5 nights at Cottage Orne

If you're looking for a peaceful & private retreat, this hidden gem is the perfect place to stay. We were warmly welcomed by Evie and daughter as soon as we arrived, even though it was a very wet & windy evening. Cottage Orne is cosy & comfortable with great views. Only natural sounds were to be heard including owls. After a day out walking with the dog in the beautiful surrounding countryside, it was lovely to be able to return & sit out on the decking, relax and warm yourself around the firepit. The fairy lights added a magical touch. The fenced cottage garden is ideal for those with dogs and having the freedom to access the extensive grounds was an unexpected treat. What a great place - Thanks Evie & family xx

J

Julian

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hideaway Hut, Camping cabin.

This was a super last-minute booking, despite knowing that it was going to be pretty wet all weekend. Despite the rain, this was a magical place and my son and I had a special time together. The rain maybe made it even more special. Anna is lovely and very helpful and their dog spent quite a lot of time with us because he realised we would continue to throw a stick for it until we went to sleep. Which was bliss!

L

Laura

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Llandyfan Camping

Cedar cabin was absolutely immaculate it was nice and cozy on a hill which gave it the best view! The lake is incredibly stunning and filled with fish! My son also went fishing there and sadly had his fishing rod pulled in by a fish but the next morning the host went and found it. The host was so kind and welcoming 5/5 stars would highly recommend!

C

Carl

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cottage Orne

We stayed at Cottage Orne for the August bank holiday weekend and so glad we booked it. Evie was amazing and always available if needed and our kids loved playing with the new puppies. The cottage itself was perfect for a long weekend away and catered for our family of 4 with no problems. If we are ever back in the area, I'm sure we will be back to stay.

T

Tim

August 2025

With kids

3 nights at Bredon-Vale Caravan and Camping

Quiet and civilised site which reminded me why I love camping. It's not a big site but is well organised with many thoughtful touches. I appreciated the grill set in the log cabin and was impressed by the plant-based washing up liquid (no need to carry your own). The log cabin is compact but had everything we needed. The owners are friendly and manage to be discreet yet somehow on call simultaneously. My one suggestion would be to consider getting a (good) coffee machine for the shop. But, really ... it was excellent, thank you.

R

Rebecca

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bredon-Vale Caravan and Camping

We had such a lovely stay here, beautiful scenery and sunsets. The log pod was very comfy, and it’s so nice having a bbq and fire. Toilets /shower block very clean and welcoming. Will be back again, thank you 😊

R

Rachel

August 2025

1 night at Stowford Manor Farm Campsite

This is a lovely place to stay. The railway carriage was very comfortable and very well laid out, packing a lot of functionality into a cozy space. The grounds are beautiful and quiet. It’s just a short drive to several must see places like Bath and Avebury henge.

R

Ruth

August 2025

With pets

2 nights at Bredon-Vale Caravan and Camping

The log pod was excellent - great bed and the fridge was nice and cold. BBQ was provided and the little field was perfect for our 7 year old to run around in. We were perfectly placed for kayaking at Aztec Adventures and a trip to Warwick castle. We also walked the 10 mins to Norton Grange which had a lovely play area and beer garden and huge choice on their menu - 20% off for BVCC guests too was a lovely bonus. A really lovely hidden gem of a site - we’ll be back!

K

Kate

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Capel Cathy

Wonderful bespoke cabin with lots of charm. It’s handmade and beautiful, and really clean and comfy! We loved our stay. The bath was a huge treat. The water from the spring was delicious. We found amazing walks in the area- long and fabulous views and woodland. We loved Daphne’s in Prestiegne- delicious supper. Highly recommend - the children (10 and 7) loved the bedroom in rafters. A real gem!

Relax in Wild Luxury in our Quirkiest Cabin, with a Hot Tub on standby...

A

Alexandra

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cotswolds Glamping

This place is fantastic. Beautiful location. Super, well designed glamping accommodation. Sam couldn't have been more helpful and friendly. Felt very well taken care of. We were upgraded to the Hayloft which was like being in Little House on the Prairie! Awesome.

N

Nuria

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Llandyfan Camping

Beautiful camping, it's quiet and peaceful. Facilities are good and the cabin where we stayed was great!

S

Simon

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Cotswolds Glamping

We had a fantastic weekend stay at the Glamping site. We stayed in The Hayloft which was a truly unique experience and one we absolutely loved! The views across the countryside were awesome and the hot tub to end the night in made it truly special aswell. The host made us both feel very welcome. Would highly recommend!

J

Jasmine

July 2025

2 nights at Buzzard Holt Hosting

I stayed in Otter’s Holt which was a cute Shepard’s Hut in the country side. Really cosy, had a fridge, mini oven, utensils, outdoor toilets and showers and also booked a slot at the communal spa. Would definitely recommend, great value for money and in a good location close to the local town as well as countryside!

L

Lydia

July 2025

1 night at Mill House Equestrian Centre

I’m on holiday in the UK and this was absolutely the highlight of my trip so far. The cabin was wonderful and right by the stream on a beautiful property. I booked at the last minute and Georgia was able to accommodate to my needs. I’d highly recommend staying here!

K

Katrina

July 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Celtic Woodland Holidays

It was a fabulous secluded spot which was what we were looking for. The accommodation had basic facilities but were perfectly adequate. There was a great main area with toilets, showers, TV and pool table. Lots of great walks around. Fabulous spot for a weekend get away

Clarice

July 2025

2 nights at The T Barn

Gorgeous location, beautiful huts, short but lovely stay!

Maria

June 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Capel Cathy

Fantastic stay. We loved the Capel. So well made and cosy. It was so quiet, felt like being in a desert island. Magical weekend

Star Hosts in Cheddar

Sleep Wild

100%

(20)

137km from Cheddar · 2 units · Glamping · Banbury, Oxfordshire, South East England

Curvy cabins with hot tubs on an expansive farm in the Oxfordshire countryside

Westland Farm

100%

(140)

81km from Cheddar · 21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Barnstaple, Devon, South West England

Camping and glamping on a working farm, with yurts, huts with hot tubs, and simple, spacious, sociable camping pitches

Haddon Copse Farm

99%

(49)

52km from Cheddar · 10 units · Tents, Glamping · Dorset, South West England

Simple camping and glamping in an unspoilt location with glorious views of the Dorset Downs

Bridgewood Camping - Woodland camps

97%

(33)

50km from Cheddar · 5 units · Tents, Glamping · Sherborne, England

Nearly wild woodland camping in Dorset

Twitey's Camping & Glamping meadows

100%

(94)

129km from Cheddar · 43 units · Tents, Glamping · Wellesbourne, England

A family-friendly site with secluded, individual pitches hidden among the long grass and campfires permitted

Dog-friendly getaways

Romantic Off-Grid Cabin

85km from Cheddar · 1 unit · Glamping · England

Disconnect in comfort. Reconnect with nature What makes it special: - Stunning sunrise views from the bed - Total peace – no traffic, no noise, just nature - Dog-friendly space surrounded by hills and trees - 10 mins to Cheltenham** and Cotswold Way trails - 5 mins to Dunkertons Organic Cider (farm shop + live music!) Inside the cabin: - King-size bed, wood-burning stove and warm wood interiors - Ensuite hot shower with fluffy towels - Kitchen with gas hob, compact fridge, stove-top coffee maker & cafetière - Light-filled dining bar with long view of the fields Outside space: - Firepit for BBQs and night skies - Relaxing outside for slow outdoor meals on the picnic bench - Surrounded by open sky, clean air and birdsong Local gems: - Dunkertons Cider taproom + boulangerie (5 mins) - Cotswold Way walks from the cabin door - Pub lunches and market towns nearby - Cheltenham (10 mins by car) – indie shops, galleries, food spots What guests say: > “The views were amazing, the sunrises unreal. Just peaceful.” > “We lay in bed, watched the hills change colour, and did absolutely nothing. Bliss.” Come and reset. Breathe deeply. Watch the sunrise. We’d love to welcome you.

Cosy Couple's Log Cabins + Hot Tubs

100%

(5)

78km from Cheddar · 3 units · Glamping · Hereford, Herefordshire, West Midlands

A stylishly simple and secluded cabin for two in the Wye Valley

North End Farm

94%

(8)

59km from Cheddar · 3 units · Glamping · Bridport, England

North End Farm is situated in the spectacular Dorset countryside, yet only a couple of miles from the Jurassic Coast, beaches, pubs, restaurants. Wonderful walks are available on and beyond the farm. The Pavilion is a great place to rest and strike out from. The beach is 1.5 miles away. It is on a network of footpaths in the middle of it's own organic farmland. Bridport and Lyme Regis offer plenty of art and culture and are reknown for food, River Cottage and the Jurassic Coast. There is nothing better than being warm and cosy around the wood burner looking out at the great views. The Pavilion is good for couples, solo adventurers, art lovers, foodies and furry friends (pets)..

Tamarisk Holiday Cabins

90%

(5)

140km from Cheddar · 3 units · Glamping · Bude, England

Holiday cabins with hot tubs on the North Cornish Coast

Naturesbase

100%

(14)

142km from Cheddar · 14 units · Tents, Glamping · Lampeter, Ceredigion, Mid Wales

Nature versus nurture? There’s no need to debate it at Naturesbase, a gorgeous natural environment nurtured to perfection by caring hosts

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Cabins near Cheddar guide

Where to go

Cheddar Gorge & Cheddar Caves

Unless you’re visiting Cheddar for its cheese, you’re likely coming to check out the Cheddar Gorge or the Cheddar Caves, the star attractions just outside town. The caves are a family-friendly subterranean network of caverns full of prehistoric rock formations, while the limestone Cheddar Gorge is a magnet for walkers, climbers, cavers, and sightseers—some hiking routes are steep but provide great views through the gorge and across the Somerset landscape. It’s no surprise that camping is a popular way to stay nearby.

Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Cheddar is right on the edge of the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), a range of limestone hills in Somerset’s northeast. Hidden within the hills are deep gorges, rocky outcrops, and the pretty lakes of the Chew Valley. Cheddar is a good camping base for checking out the AONB, or there are camping, glamping, and caravan sites dotted around the Mendip Hills, although wild camping isn’t allowed.

Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Southwest of Cheddar lies England’s first AONB, Quantock Hills, a relatively small area of heath, woodlands, parklands, and agricultural land. Campers staying in Cheddar can easily visit the Quantock Hills on a day trip for hiking, cycling, and wildlife-viewing adventures. There are also many campsites at the base of the hills that allow visitors to access the AONB on foot or by bike.

When to go

Summer is the best time to visit Cheddar, when the weather is generally warm and pleasant and the days long—ideal for tent or caravan camping and outdoor adventures. Campers visiting outside of summer should be prepared with cold-weather and waterproof gear, or stay in cabins rather than unheated tents or caravans.