15 Short Walks Cheddar and the Mendips

Discover the dramatic limestone landscapes and hidden green valleys of Somerset with this collection of 15 short walks exploring Cheddar and the Mendips. From the towering cliffs of Cheddar Gorge and panoramic hilltop viewpoints to tranquil woodlands, reservoirs and flower-rich grasslands, these routes reveal the rich variety of the Mendip Hills, ideal for relaxed days out and family adventures.


Each walk is accompanied by a clear Ordnance Survey map and step-by-step route description, with numbered waypoints linking mapping and text to make navigation simple for walkers of all experience levels.
Practical information is included for every route across Cheddar and the Mendip Hills, covering parking, public transport, facilities and refreshment stops, so you can plan your outing with confidence.
Explore standout Mendip highlights including Crook Peak, Beacon Batch, Velvet Bottom, Ebbor Gorge, Cheddar Gorge, King’s Wood and the Cheddar Reservoir loop, with routes showcasing limestone gorges, wooded combes and far-reaching viewpoints.
Routes range from 3 to 10km (all under three hours) and are graded easy to moderate, featuring manageable distances and short climbs without technical terrain, making them ideal for beginners, families and leisurely countryside strolls.
A handy route summary table helps you select the perfect walk by distance, duration and difficulty, while local tips point out viewpoints, wildlife interest and welcoming cafés and pubs along the way.


Part of Cicerone’s trusted Short Walks series, this guidebook is the perfect companion for discovering Cheddar and the Mendip Hills on foot. Whether you are wandering through dramatic gorges, climbing gentle summits or enjoying peaceful woodland paths, this collection offers everything you need for memorable short walks in Somerset.

Seasons

Enjoy the Mendip Hills all year round. Be mindful that some routes can be slippery and muddy in the wetter months, but crisp winter mornings and balmy summer evenings gift glorious sunrise and sunset opportunities.

Centres

Cheddar, Axbridge, Westbury-sub-Mendip, Priddy, Rowberrow

Difficulty

You’re in the Mendip Hills, so expect a climb or two during most of these walks. Much of the landscape, by its very nature, is uneven and of mixed terrain. Many stiles require a climb and footpaths can be very wet during the winter months.

Must See

Explore the world-famous Cheddar Gorge and the historic Mendip Hills – renowned for dramatic inland cliffs and far-reaching views across to Glastonbury Tor and as far as Wales.