Cheddar Loop vi Middledown Nature Reserve

Starting near the picturesque village of Cheddar in Somerset, England, the Cheddar Loop via Middledown Nature Reserve offers a delightful 10 km (6.2 miles) loop trail with an elevation gain of approximately 300 meters (984 feet). This medium-difficulty hike is perfect for those looking to explore the natural beauty and historical richness of the area.

Getting There

To reach the trailhead, you can drive to Cheddar, which is well-connected by road. If you're using public transport, the nearest major train station is in Weston-super-Mare. From there, you can take a bus to Cheddar. The trailhead is conveniently located near the Cheddar Gorge and Caves, a well-known landmark.

Trail Overview

The trail begins near the Cheddar Gorge, one of the most iconic natural landmarks in England. As you start your hike, you'll be greeted by stunning limestone cliffs that rise dramatically from the ground. The initial part of the trail is relatively gentle, allowing you to ease into the hike.

Middledown Nature Reserve

Around the 3 km (1.9 miles) mark, you'll enter the Middledown Nature Reserve. This area is a haven for wildlife, including various bird species, butterflies, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for the rare Cheddar Pink flower, which is native to this region. The reserve is also home to ancient woodlands, offering a serene and shaded section of the trail.

Elevation Gain

As you progress, the trail begins to ascend more steeply. The climb is gradual but steady, gaining approximately 300 meters (984 feet) in elevation. This section can be challenging, so make sure to pace yourself and take breaks as needed. The effort is well worth it, as the higher you go, the more breathtaking the views become.

Panoramic Views

At around the 6 km (3.7 miles) mark, you'll reach one of the highest points of the trail. Here, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Somerset countryside. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Bristol Channel. This is an excellent spot to take a break, have a snack, and soak in the scenery.

Historical Significance

The Cheddar region is steeped in history. As you hike, you'll come across remnants of ancient settlements and old stone walls that date back to medieval times. The area is also famous for the Cheddar Man, Britain's oldest complete human skeleton, discovered in Gough's Cave in Cheddar Gorge.

Descending Back

The descent begins around the 8 km (5 miles) mark. This section of the trail is less strenuous but requires careful footing, especially if the ground is wet. The path winds through open fields and meadows, offering a different but equally beautiful perspective of the landscape.

Final Stretch

As you approach the end of the loop, you'll re-enter the Cheddar Gorge area. The final stretch is relatively flat and easy, allowing you to cool down as you make your way back to the starting point.

Navigation

For navigation, it's highly recommended to use HiiKER, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates to ensure you stay on track.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and historical intrigue, making it a must-do for any hiking enthusiast visiting Somerset.