Looking north down river into the Gorge
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Ebbor Gorge

4.7
·752 reviews·Wookey Hole, United Kingdom

A stunning limestone gorge with ancient woodlands, offering challenging hikes and panoramic views over the Somerset Levels.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Looking north down river into the Gorge

Ebbor Gorge

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning limestone gorge with ancient woodlands, offering challenging hikes and panoramic views over the Somerset Levels.

4.7
(752 reviews)

"The view at the end of a shortish but tougher climb/walk was worth it."

Vertical photo
TIP

Pick the Right Trail

Two main trails: an easier route and a more challenging one with steep steps. Choose based on fitness! :athletic_shoe:

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be narrow, steep, and unstable, especially after rain. Good grip is essential. :hiking_boot:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Deerleap Viewpoint

Deerleap Viewpoint

Top of the gorge

Panoramic views across the Somerset Levels, Glastonbury Tor, and beyond. A rewarding sight after a climb.

The Gorge Ascent

The Gorge Ascent

Main gorge trail

A surprising and adventurous climb through a limestone gorge with unique geological formations.

Ancient Woodlands

Ancient Woodlands

Throughout the gorge

Explore ancient ash and oak woodlands, a serene and atmospheric setting for a walk.

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Planning Your Visit

Choose Your Path Wisely

Ebbor Gorge offers varied trails, from gentle strolls to challenging climbs. Consider your fitness level and the weather; muddy conditions can make steeper paths tricky. Dogs are welcome but must be on a lead.

Timing is Key for Tranquility

While Ebbor Gorge is less commercial than nearby Cheddar or Wookey, it can still get busy. Visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours ensures a more peaceful experience amidst its natural beauty.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Dry weather
Why
Easier footing on trails
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Summertime Palace training the babies to ring for food ✨️ #bishopspalacewells #rurallifestyle #castlecore #nationaltrust
@oliveforestt
377.4K likes • 2.6M views

Pick the Right Trail

Two main trails: an easier route and a more challenging one with steep steps. Choose based on fitness! :athletic_shoe:

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be narrow, steep, and unstable, especially after rain. Good grip is essential. :hiking_boot:

Ebbor Gorge was simply beautiful
gordonchristiansen
11 likes • 208 views
📍Ebbor Gorge, England #ebbor #ebborgorge #mendiphills #visitengland #greatbritain #roadtrip #hikingadventures #unitedkingdom #road #scenic
revdoc_
49 likes • 1.4K views

Dog-Friendly Adventure

Your furry friends will love it, but remember to keep them on a lead. :dog:

Parking & Payment

Parking is available at Ebbor Gorge car park and can be paid for via an app. :iphone:

Explored the Ebbor gorge near Wells in Somerset today … #ebborgorge #views #National trust
p0000m
25 likes • 202 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Pick the Right Trail

Two main trails: an easier route and a more challenging one with steep steps. Choose based on fitness! :athletic_shoe:

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be narrow, steep, and unstable, especially after rain. Good grip is essential. :hiking_boot:

Dog-Friendly Adventure

Your furry friends will love it, but remember to keep them on a lead. :dog:

Parking & Payment

Parking is available at Ebbor Gorge car park and can be paid for via an app. :iphone:

Combine with Wells

Make a day of it by visiting Wells Cathedral after your gorge exploration. :cathedral:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(752 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Ebbor Gorge for its beautiful scenery, rewarding views from the top, and peaceful atmosphere, especially compared to more commercial attractions. The challenging climb through the gorge is a highlight for many, offering a sense of adventure. However, some find the trail signage unclear, and the steepness of certain paths can be a challenge for less able individuals or young children.

"Didn't know what to expect but the view at the end of a shortish but tougher climb/walk was worth it.

My 9 and 6 year old were fine with it though with a little hand holding in places. It can be narrow, steep and footing unstable in places so it's definitely a walk for the more able.

My terrier was in her happy place but dogs must be on leads.

It was very dry when we did it, I'm not sure how it would be after more wet weather through the winter."

Naomi Bushrod

"Beautiful place for an afternoon walk, peaceful, not many people, with amazing views all over the valley from the top. We did a 4 mile walk with our little dog and it was great. Highly recommended!👌"

Juan Carlos Varela

"Beautiful place, but signs to start of walks not very clear. We did the walk back to front. But a beautiful place."

Rachael

What People Like

Rewarding views
Peaceful atmosphere
Adventurous climb

What People Dislike

Unclear signage
Steep/difficult paths

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ebbor Gorge is located near Wells in Somerset. It's a short 10-minute drive from Wells. The main car park is Ebbor Gorge car park (BA5 1EL). Some visitors suggest using apps like 'Old Trails' to find the way, though signs can be tricky. Instagram+2

While there isn't direct public transport to the gorge itself, you can reach Wells by bus or train and then consider a taxi or a longer walk to the gorge. TikTok

The trails can be narrow and steep. Some visitors recommend using navigation apps or checking trail maps beforehand, as signage can be unclear. Reddit

Yes, Ebbor Gorge is conveniently located near Wookey Hole and Cheddar Gorge, making it a great addition to a day trip exploring the Mendip Hills. Instagram

Yes, there is a car park at Ebbor Gorge. Payment is typically made via an app. InstagramReddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ebbor Gorge is a nature preserve and generally free to enter. Parking may have a fee, payable by app. Instagram

As a natural reserve, Ebbor Gorge is typically open from dawn till dusk. It's best to check local information for any specific seasonal changes. Instagram

There is no entrance fee for Ebbor Gorge itself, but parking charges may apply. Instagram

Guided tours are not commonly advertised for Ebbor Gorge, as it's more of a self-guided natural attraction. However, local walking groups might offer excursions. Instagram

The best way to experience Ebbor Gorge is by hiking its trails, enjoying the views from Deerleap Viewpoint, and exploring the ancient woodlands. Instagram+1

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Ebbor Gorge offers a beautiful limestone gorge with ancient woodlands, caves, and stunning viewpoints like Deerleap. It's ideal for hiking and nature walks. Instagram+1

Some trails are suitable for children with supervision, but the more difficult routes with steep, unstable steps are not recommended for young children. Reddit

Yes, dogs are welcome at Ebbor Gorge, but they must be kept on a lead at all times. Reddit

Expect a mix of woodland paths, steep ascents, and potentially muddy or unstable sections, especially on the more challenging routes. InstagramReddit

Facilities are limited at Ebbor Gorge, as it's a natural reserve. It's advisable to use restrooms in nearby Wells before your visit. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Deerleap Viewpoint offers spectacular panoramic shots. The winding paths through the ancient woodlands also provide beautiful, atmospheric photography opportunities. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The dramatic gorge, ancient trees, and expansive views from the top make it a fantastic location for landscape photographers. Instagram+1

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful light for photography, especially with the mist often present in the gorge. Instagram

While there are caves, access and visibility for photography can be limited. The main draw for photos is the gorge and its viewpoints. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a standard zoom can be useful for woodland shots. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions. :camerawithflash:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ebbor Gorge can be a fun adventure for families, but choose your route wisely. The easier trails are generally manageable for children, offering a chance to explore nature. However, the more challenging routes with steep, high steps are not recommended for younger children or those with limited mobility, as they can be difficult and potentially unsafe. Reddit Ensure children are supervised closely, especially on narrower or more uneven sections. Bringing snacks and water is a good idea, as facilities are minimal. Instagram

Many families enjoy the circular walk and the rewarding views from the top. It's a great way to get kids outdoors and active. Combining a visit with a trip to Wells, which has more amenities, can make for a more comfortable day out. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For hikers, Ebbor Gorge offers a rewarding experience with its varied terrain and beautiful scenery. The challenging gorge ascent provides a good workout and a sense of adventure, leading to the spectacular Deerleap Viewpoint. Instagram+1 Be prepared for potentially muddy and slippery conditions, especially after rain, and wear appropriate footwear. InstagramReddit

Nature lovers will appreciate the ancient woodlands with their diverse tree species and the peaceful atmosphere, which is often less crowded than more famous nearby gorges. Instagram The geological features of the gorge are also of interest. Remember to keep dogs on a lead and be mindful of the trail conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Trails of Ebbor Gorge

Ebbor Gorge presents a network of trails catering to different abilities. The main gorge trail is a popular choice, offering a surprising and adventurous climb through the limestone gorge. This route features steep sections and stone steps, which can be challenging for some, particularly those of shorter stature or with mobility issues. Reddit Visitors have noted that the signs for the start of walks can be unclear, leading some to complete the loop in reverse. Reddit

For a more accessible experience, an easier route is available, though it might not offer the same dramatic gorge experience. It's crucial to assess the weather conditions before your visit, as the trails can become muddy and unstable, making footing precarious. InstagramReddit Wearing sturdy, grippy footwear is highly recommended to ensure safety and comfort throughout your hike. Reddit

Dogs are welcome on the trails but must be kept on a lead. The car park at Ebbor Gorge offers payment via an app, so be prepared for that. InstagramReddit Many visitors combine their Ebbor Gorge hike with a visit to the nearby city of Wells, making for a well-rounded day out. TikTok

The Geological and Historical Significance

Ebbor Gorge is a significant geological site, carved by ancient watercourses through the Mendip Hills' limestone. The gorge itself is a dramatic feature, with steep sides and unique rock formations. It's part of a larger area of important woodlands on the southern escarpment of the Mendip Hills, characterized by ash and oak trees, with other native species like whitebeam and wych elm also present. Instagram

Beyond its natural beauty, Ebbor Gorge holds archaeological importance, with evidence of Neolithic and Bronze Age human activity. This adds a layer of historical intrigue to the natural landscape, suggesting the area has been valued for millennia. The presence of these ancient remains underscores the enduring appeal of this natural wonder. Instagram

While the primary draw for most visitors is the hiking and the stunning views, the underlying geological and historical context enriches the experience. It's a place where natural processes and human history have intertwined over vast periods, creating a landscape that is both beautiful and deeply resonant.

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