Route Overview

Starting Point: Waterfall Cafe & Ice Cream Car Park
Distance: 10km / 6 miles
Time: ~6 hours (inc stops)
Ascent: 437m
Grade: Intermediate (Find out more about our grading system here)
Terrain: short steep hills, gravel tracks, muddy footpaths, country lanes, steep steps, rocky ground

Join us for a spectacular hike exploring one of England’s most dramatic landscapes – Cheddar Gorge. Our walk begins with a climb up the north cliff along the West Mendip Way, where sweeping views quickly open up across the gorge and surrounding countryside. From here, we descend to Black Rock before following the peaceful path through Velvet Bottom, a nature reserve rich in wildlife and history.

The route then loops back for a climb onto the south cliff, where the panoramic views stretch across the Mendips towards Cheddar Reservoir – a truly breathtaking spot to pause and take it all in. Our descent brings us down the famous Jacob’s Ladder, returning us to our start point in the village below.

Getting There

By Car: There is a car park next to the Waterfall Cafe with limited spaces. If the car park is full there is another just down the road at the official Cheddar Gorge car park.

By Public Transport: Unfortunately, this walk is only accessible by car, but please utilise the liftshare WhatsApp group below - most people are happy to give lifts!

Liftshare: If you need or can offer a lift, please post in the Lift Share WhatsApp Group.

What to Bring

Hiking boots
Plenty of snacks and a packed lunch
At least 1 litre of water
Weather-appropriate clothing
Small first aid kit with personal medication
A day rucksack for your essentials

Who will be your guide?

Hi, I’m Alice! I’m a Qualified Mountain Leader and CEO of The Adventure Girls Club. I founded this club to create a welcoming space for women to reconnect with nature through adventure and outdoor skills. I love meeting the amazing women who join our events, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see participants leave feeling more connected to nature and to one another.

What to expect on a TAGC hike

A qualified hike leader to lead the way and keep you safe
A slow walking pace where no one gets left behind
A welcoming and friendly group of like-minded women
Plenty of facts about the nature and history of the walk
Lots of 'faff' stops to drink water, snack and de-layer and re-layer
A relaxing lunch/dinner break (if the weather allows!)
A link to share photos after the hike

Who can join?

Our events are for cis-women, trans-women and non-binary people who feel safer in women-only spaces.

Club Membership

Non-members are welcome at all our events. We also offer a club membership, which provides free or discounted access to events, a community WhatsApp group, and route cards and resources via our online platform. You can find out more about the club membership here.

Safety & Participation

Our hikes are designed to be enjoyable and relaxed – it’s about experiencing nature, not rushing! However, you are responsible for your own health and safety. If you're unsure about your fitness level, consult your doctor or reach out if you have any concerns.

I am a Qualified Mountain Leader and Level 3 Outdoor First Aid trained, so I’ll be available in case of emergencies.

Consent Form

All participants must complete a consent form before joining the hike. Forms must be submitted the night before the event. A reminder will be sent two days before.

Fill out the form here.

Toilets

There are toilets at the start of the walk, but apart from that, be prepared for a ‘wild wee’ if needed during the walk - just let someone in the group know and find a private spot.

Dogs

Well-behaved dogs are welcome! However, I can't guarantee that all styles are dog-friendly, so be prepared to carry your dog over a style if necessary. Dogs must be kept on leads around livestock or wildlife, and the guide has the right to enforce this. If bringing a dog, please post in our Dog Chat WhatsApp Group to let other dog owners know.

Refund Policy

Refunds are only available if the event is cancelled. If you can no longer attend, you may sell your ticket to someone else using the Tickets for Sale/Swap WhatsApp Group

If you are a Dedicated Member, please cancel your space if you can no longer make it.

Terms & Conditions

By signing up for this event, you agree to our Terms & Conditions. Please note this event is for over-18s only.