Where is the B3135-Cheddar Gorge?
England, europe
23 km
138 m
hard
Year-round
Cruising the B3135 through Cheddar Gorge? Yes, please! This gem is tucked away on the southern edge of the Mendip Hills in Somerset, and trust me, it's a drive you won't forget.
We're talking Cheddar Gorge, the UK's largest gorge, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Think dramatic limestone cliffs, carved by glaciers during the Ice Age. They create England's deepest natural canyon! Seriously, these cliffs rise almost 400 feet, towering 138m above the winding road below.
The B3135, also known as Cliff Road, is about 14 miles (23km) long with a wild 22 bends! It connects the village of Cheddar to Ashwick. Give yourself around 30-40 minutes if you're driving straight through, but you'll probably want to stop for photos.
This road is a real rollercoaster! The first section is the most intense, twisting and turning right through the gorge with rock faces on either side. Think agility, not speed! After about four miles, the gorge opens up, and you'll enter a middle section with trees and sweeping bends. The final stretch is all about long straights and gentle gradients – perfect for soaking in the views.
Keep an eye out for buses, tourists, tractors, and maybe even a sheep or two! The road can get packed, and it’s also pretty steep, with a maximum gradient of 16%. Also, be aware that after heavy rains or flooding, it can be closed.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! The B3135 offers some of Britain's most stunning scenery. It was even named the best driving road in the UK in 2018. Plus, you can explore the gorge itself.
Road Details
- Country
- England
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 23 km
- Max Elevation
- 138 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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