Camping in Cheddar

Camping around Cheddar means limestone hills, wide Somerset Levels views and easy access to one of the South West's best-known landmarks. The Mendip Hills rise steeply behind the village, so pitches on higher ground can be exposed to wind, while sites down towards the Levels are flatter and more sheltered, though the ground can be soft after heavy rain given the low-lying, historically marshy land nearby. Several campsites and touring parks sit within walking distance of Cheddar Gorge, making it possible to leave the car behind for a day of caving, walking and cheese-tasting.

Wild camping is not legally permitted in England, including in Somerset and the Mendip Hills, without the landowner's permission, so stick to registered campsites, certified sites or farms offering pitches with the owner's agreement. This is different from Scotland, where wild camping is generally allowed under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code; England has no equivalent right, and the National Trust and other landowners around the gorge do not permit informal camping on their land.

Late spring through early autumn is the most comfortable window, with drier ground and long evenings for exploring the clifftop walk, though this is also when the gorge and village are busiest with day visitors. Autumn brings cooler, quieter camping with good colour on the lower slopes, while winter camping is possible on well-drained sites but exposed to Mendip winds and short daylight hours. For those who prefer a roof, glamping options in the area range from bell tents and shepherd's huts to fixed-site pods, offering a comfortable alternative within reach of the gorge without needing to bring full camping kit.