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• Journey through dramatic gorges, rolling hills and tranquil lakes in the Mendip Hills AONB
• Visit historic towns and villages like Cheddar, Wells and Glastonbury
• Continue to the North Somerset coast for beaches and coastal walks
• A flexible 75-mile route linking 12 scenic stops across countryside, coast and culture
The Mendips and North Somerset Road Trip
This road trip through the Mendips and North Somerset has beautiful views, interesting history, and a hint of nostalgia for the beach. You'll start in the limestone peaks of the Mendip Hills, which are an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. From there, you'll wind your way through a landscape shaped by time, where caves, gorges, and valleys tell stories that go back millions of years.
Visit Cheddar Gorge, one of England's most beautiful natural sites, and explore its old caves before walking through the village that gave its name to Britain's most famous cheese. From there, go to Wells, which is England's smallest city. The beautiful façade of Wells Cathedral rises above the cobblestone streets and market squares. Glastonbury is only a short drive away. Its mysterious Tor, abbey ruins, and bohemian vibe add a touch of legend and spirituality.
The view of the North Somerset shoreline opens up as the road goes down towards the coast. Take a walk along the beach at Weston-super-Mare, eat fish and chips on the pier, or go to Brean Down and Sand Point for quiet walks along the headland with great views of the Bristol Channel.
Bristol and Bath are two cultural gems that are perfect for ending your trip. They are both close to the wild Mendips. Bath's Georgian streets and Roman baths are peaceful and elegant, while Bristol's harbourside is full of creative energy.
This flexible route is perfect for a few days of exploring because it's only 75 miles (120 km) long and has a lot of character, variety, and quiet, unhurried moments that make road trips special.
Exploring The Mendips and North Somerset:
Caves, Lakes, Hills and Beaches
Cheddar Gorge has steep cliffs, caves, and beautiful views.
Cheddar Village is known for its cheese, craft shops, and cosy tearooms.
Wells is the smallest city in England and has a beautiful Gothic cathedral.
Glastonbury is full of myths and music and is home to the Tor and the ruins of an old abbey.
Mendip Hills AONB has scenic drives, walking paths, and views of open countryside.
Weston-super-Mare: a classic seaside town with golden beaches and a grand Victorian pier.
Brean Down and Sand Point: Quiet walks along the coast with views of the sky.
Axbridge is a small mediaeval town with local inns and historic buildings.
Priddy is a classic Mendip village near old caves and nature trails.
Bristol: A lively, creative city with a history on the harbour and street art.
Bath: An elegant Georgian city with Roman history and a spa culture.
Somerset Levels: Easy drives through wetlands and wide-open spaces.
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Must-see highlights included in this Mendips and North Somerset travel guide
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![Cheddar Gorge]()
Cheddar Gorge
Cheddar Gorge, one of the UK's most spectacular natural landmarks, offers dramatic cliffs, stunning caves, and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit stop on your road trip through the Mendips.
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![Glastonbury Tor]()
Glastonbury Tor
Glastonbury Tor, a striking hill topped with the ruins of St. Michael's Tower, offers panoramic views of the surrounding Somerset Levels and is steeped in legend and history, making it an essential stop on your Mendips and North Somerset road trip.
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![Wells Cathedral]()
Wells Cathedral
Wells Cathedral, with its stunning Gothic architecture and intricate facades, is a must-visit on your Mendips and North Somerset road trip. Its breathtaking interior, featuring the famous scissor arches, and the peaceful grounds surrounding it make this historic cathedral an iconic highlight of the region.
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![Weston-super-Mare]()
Weston-super-Mare
Weston-super-Mare, a charming seaside resort on the North Somerset coast, is known for its long sandy beaches, traditional seaside attractions, and family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you enjoy strolling along the pier, visiting the Grand Pier, or taking a scenic walk along the cliffs, Weston-super-Mare offers a classic coastal experience, making it a must-see stop on your road trip through North Somerset.
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![Mendip Hills]()
Mendip Hills
The Mendip Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offer a spectacular landscape of rolling hills, limestone cliffs, and tranquil valleys. Perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures, the hills provide sweeping views of the Somerset Levels and the surrounding countryside, making it a highlight of any road trip through the region.
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![North Somerset Coast Headlands]()
North Somerset Coast Headlands
The headlands along the North Somerset coast offer breathtaking views of the Bristol Channel and rugged coastal landscapes. These dramatic cliffs provide perfect spots for brisk walks with panoramic vistas. The headlands are ideal for nature lovers and hikers looking to explore the natural beauty of the Somerset coastline, offering a peaceful escape with fresh sea air and tranquil surroundings.
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A Beautiful Trip Through the Mendips Hills and the North Somerset Coast
Drive through the magnificent Mendip Hills and down the stunning North Somerset coast. You'll see a lot of gorgeous landscape, history, and culture along the way. The Mendip Hills, which are an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is where your exploring should start. The hills are magnificent, the views are stunning, and the rocks are fascinating. Visit well-known places like Cheddar Gorge, which has limestone cliffs and historic caves that draw both thrill-seekers and history buffs.
Cheddar is a beautiful place with great cheese and beautiful views. Then go to Wells, a mediaeval city with the beautiful Wells Cathedral and a very English feel. Finally, head to Glastonbury. Glastonbury is a wonderful place with its famous Glastonbury Tor and long history of spiritual activity. It's a terrific place to go.
Take a trip to the North Somerset coast if you want to get away from it all. There are old-fashioned beach towns there, like Weston-super-Mare. You may see amazing views by walking along the sandy beaches or going to the rocky headlands along the coast.
To finish your tour, go to cultural centres close by, like Bath and Bristol. Bristol has a lively arts scene, a rich maritime heritage, and some of the most modern attractions in the world. Bath, on the other hand, is a peaceful place to escape from everything. It features Roman baths, Georgian architecture, and a classy look.
This drive across the Mendips and North Somerset features beautiful scenery, charming villages, and cultural experiences that will stay with everyone who goes.
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Every great road trip begins with an idea — a place that pulls you in, a view you can’t stop thinking about, or simply the urge to get out on the open road. You can dip into fresh inspiration, find experiences to excite you, look for the kind of vehicle that suits your style of travelling, and get practical road trip planning tips to make planning simple rather than stressful. However you like to explore, you’ll find everything you need to start turning your trip into something memorable.
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