Cheddar is a dream destination for walkers, offering everything from gentle village strolls to breathtaking clifftop hikes. Trails wind through ancient woodlands, across wildflower meadows and along the spectacular Cheddar Gorge. Whether you're seeking solitude or adventure, there's a route to suit every pace and experience level right from the YHA Cheddar's doorstep.
All our self-guided walks start and end at a YHA hostel and are graded so that you can explore the area at your own pace.
Axbridge and Reservoir
A lovely route along an old railway line to a picturesque town and back along quiet country lanes.
Easy route (pdf, 0.9mb)
4.6 miles, takes 1h 45m to 3h
Cheddar Gorge
A stunning route around Cheddar Gorge and back through the village.
Moderate route (pdf, 1.2mb)
4.7 miles, takes 2h 30m - 4h
Cheddar Gorge and Black Down
A great route taking in Cheddar Gorge, the Mendips and a lovely town and villages.
Challenging route (pdf, 0.8mb)
12.8 miles, takes 6h 15m to 10h
All our walking routes are tried and tested to help you explore this beautiful part of England. To assist with route selection and planning, you’ll also find a description of the hazards and facilities, accessibility information and points of interest on the maps.
Learn more about the Mendip Hills National Landscape.
Want to understand more about our maps or develop your walking skills? Take a look at the guides we have developed to help you prepare for your chosen walk.
WiFi
Self-catering kitchen
Free parking on premises
Thursday 18th September 2025 Distance: 5 miles (8km) Duration: 4 hours Led by: Mendip Adventure and Mendip Hills National Landscape Discovery and connection Starting at YHA Cheddar, this route will...
Explore one of Britain's most impressive natural wonders. At Cheddar Caves & Gorge, you'll journey through spectacular caverns, learn about prehistoric discoveries and enjoy jaw-dropping views from...
Explore the Mendips on two wheels! Cheddar is ideal for both road cyclists and leisure riders. Discover winding lanes, challenging hill climbs and traffic-free trails like the Strawberry Line. There’s...
Just a 15-minute drive from YHA Cheddar, Mendip Activity Centre is the go-to destination for unforgettable outdoor adventures. With activities ranging from archery, air rifle, axe throwing, abseiling...
Cheddar Gorge is one of the UK's top sport climbing destinations with dramatic limestone faces and over 300 graded routes. Beginners and experienced climbers alike can enjoy the challenge, and there...
A magical mix of show caves, family fun, and history, Wookey Hole offers an underground adventure with a twist. Just a short drive from Cheddar, it's packed with attractions from cave tours to...
Wells is full of charm, with a beautiful cathedral, cobbled streets, and historic architecture. Visit the Bishop’s Palace, browse the twice-weekly market, or simply soak up the atmosphere in England’s...
An RSPB reserve on the Somerset Levels, Ham Wall is a peaceful wetland teeming with birdlife. It's perfect for nature lovers with flat, accessible trails and seasonal highlights like starling...
Steeped in myth, music, and spirituality, Glastonbury is like nowhere else. Explore the ruins of the Abbey, climb the legendary Tor, and enjoy quirky shops, cafés, and a famously creative, alternative...
For a classic day at the seaside, head to Weston-super-Mare. Just 30 minutes from Cheddar, it’s got sandy beaches, a Grand Pier with amusements, and plenty of places for fish and chips by the sea...
The birthplace of Clarks shoes. This outlet shopping centre has bargains galore, and more shoe shops than you can shake a stick at! Visit the Clarks Village website
Get back to nature and stride out on foot to explore the beauty of this part of the country. Whether it be walking routes or off the beaten track, you’re sure to enjoy wandering around and taking in...
Get out and about on your bike and enjoy the landscape. Whether it's town or countryside you want to explore, you can ride as far as your legs will allow you. Cycle hire is available locally, please...
The SS Great Britain is dubbed the ship that changed the world! Discover the world's first great luxury liner, right here in Bristol. A treat for nautical lovers of all ages.
From its tragedies to triumphs to the extraordinary lives of ordinary people, Bristol has incredible stories to tell and you'll find plenty of them here. M Shed is a museum all about Bristol. Visit M...
With over 250 hands-on exhibits to explore, live shows and the UK's only 3D planetarium, We The Curious is one of the most exciting interactive science centres in the country. Visitors can also engage...