Spending a Summer’s Day in Cheddar
Walking in circles
It goes without saying that there are some incredible walks in this part of our county, but for those of you who don’t like hills, why not promenade a circuit of Cheddar Reservoir? You can either park in neighbouring Axbridge, or there is a car park on site on Middle Moor Lane and the great thing about this route is that you’ll be on the flat the whole way. When the weather is fine you can expect to see locals enjoying water sports plus there’s always plenty of birdlife to admire along the way too.
Time for tea
After you’ve been for your stroll you’ll be deserving of some refreshment so it’s time to head to The Cheese Cottage Tea Room; a family run café in the heart of the village. Homemade cakes include crowd pleasers such as Victoria sponge and Lemon drizzle although will you be able to resist the Classic Cream Tea served on vintage Spode crockery? Open seven days a week throughout the summer months, The Cheese Cottage Tea Room is also a great spot for stocking up on local produce including of course cheese and cider. Cheesecottage.co.uk
Meet the Flintstones
As home to one of Britain’s finest natural phenomena, Cheddar Gorge & Caves is a day out for all ages. Formed millions of years ago by glacial meltwater, the gorge that you are experiencing today is a prime example of a textbook river gorge. On the hills around you, be sure to keep an eye out for the local goats who nimbly and miraculously cling to the cliff face with sheer abandon! Head into the Cheddar Gorge & Caves themselves and throughout July and August you can head back in time, meet our Stone Age ancestors and learn about life as a caveman/cavewoman 10,000 years ago. cheddargorge.co.uk
The Island Beds
The River Yeo meanders through the village, and when water levels are low, children will delight in seeing the ‘Sword in the Stone’ situated in the middle of the trickling waters. Records from the 17th century show a watermill and miller’s house were situated upstream. Owned by the Marquess of Bath, the mill was leased by local milling families for grinding grain. The mill was demolished in the early 1930’s and you’ll now find a picnic area and garden in its place. Keep an eye out for the willow sheep created by local sculptress Sophie Courtier, which grace the island today.
Abundant Flora & Fauna
Cheddar is well favoured by both humans and wildlife alike. Regular sightings of kingfisher, otter and dippers are seen along the River Yeo as it courses through the village. With such clean waters the eagle-eyed amongst you will also be able to spot brown trout as these predatory fish hide in front of the rocks and tuck just beneath the overhanging vegetation. And remember, if you choose to hike up Jacob’s Ladder keep an eye out for Somerset’s famous Cheddar Pink flower too.
