enjoy the view

NOTES

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Cheddar Gorge

Burrington Combe and Cheddar

Notes and points of interest

Beacon Batch is a high point above Rowberrow Warren and a former Beacon site, close to a radio tower. The view from here is worth the walk.

Black Rock is an impressive cliff, close to and above Cheddar Gorge, but slightly removed from the main gorge. Surrounded by woodland it is a good place for bird watching.

Burrington Combe is not as dramatic as Cheddar Gorge, but is just the same kind of geological feature. The cliffs overlooking the car park are popular with rock climbers. The Rock of Ages has a fame of its own.

Cheddar is one of South West England's most popular tourist sites and becomes very busy during the Summer months. Apart from the Gorge, it boasts two famous show caves, the challenging (for some) steps of Jacobs Ladder and a range of pubs, restaurants and shops. And you could always buy some cheese!

Cheddar Gorge offers one of Britain's most striking views to be seen from a car. The road runs through the centre of the Gorge between 200ft high cliffs. It is a home for buzzards and many other birds, and is grazed by a large flock of Soay sheep (with impressive horns). Whilst the road is busy, the risk for walkers is tempered by the fact that motorists are forced to drive slowly along this steep and winding road.

Rowberrow Warren is a wide heathland area commanding a view across the Mendips and (nothwards) towards Bristol airport. It is intersected by several streams, some of which disappear into sink holes.

Rock of Ages is a large fissure in the cliff opposite the car park at Burrington Combe. The Rev Augustus Toplady once sheltered here during a storm and was inspired to write the traditional hymn "Rock of Ages cleft for me".