Cheddar Complex, Protected scientific area in Somerset, England.
Cheddar Complex is a protected scientific site in Somerset that stretches across limestone formations with grasslands, woodlands, and caves. The area includes Britain's largest gorge set within the Mendip Hills.
The site shows evidence of human presence from ancient times, with cave systems revealing long periods of early occupation. These geological formations have been shaped by millions of years of natural processes.
This place is home to plant species found nowhere else in the world, giving the limestone slopes their own living identity. The Cheddar Pink and Cheddar Bedstraw grow only in these grasslands and have become tied to the local landscape.
The site is managed by local wildlife organizations and offers pathways to explore the geological formations. Sturdy footwear is recommended, especially when visiting cave systems or walking across limestone slopes.
The area preserves traces of lead mining operations that spanned from pre-Roman periods into the nineteenth century. These old mining remains are still visible in the modern landscape and reveal how intensively the site was once worked.
GPS coordinates: 51.28080,-2.76844
Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:00
Gough's Cave
245 m
Church of St John the Baptist, Axbridge
3.4 km
Cheddar Reservoir
2.3 km
King John's Hunting Lodge
3.5 km
GB Cave
2.7 km
Cheddar Wood
2.4 km
Callow Rock quarry
2.9 km
Batts Combe Quarry
1.3 km
Draycott Sleights
2.7 km
Market Cross
832 m
Church of St Andrew, Cheddar
952 m
Kingdown and Middledown
1.6 km
Town Hall
3.4 km
Steps And Railings Forming An Approach To South Porch, Church Of St John The Baptist
3.5 km
War Memorial at the Church of St Andrew, Cheddar
1 km
The Kings Head
815 m
The Lamb Inn, Incorporating An Entrance To The Corner House The Stores
3.5 km
The Oak Hotel And Restaurant
3.4 km
National Trust
3.5 km
Cheddar War Memorial
1 km
Lloyds Bank House
3.5 km
St Judes
3.6 km
St Michael's Cheshire Home (Formerly St Michael's Free Home For Consumptives)
2.6 km
2 And 4, High Street
3.5 km
Pethers Cottage The Grey House
3.4 km
Raymond Court
3.5 km
9, High Street
3.5 km
The Old Angel
3.5 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
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