
Jacob's Ladder and Lookout Cheddar
Ascend Jacob's Ladder for iconic views of Cheddar Gorge, a challenging climb rewarded with stunning Somerset panoramas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Jacob's Ladder and Lookout Cheddar
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend Jacob's Ladder for iconic views of Cheddar Gorge, a challenging climb rewarded with stunning Somerset panoramas.
"Worth it for the views at the top. There are plenty of rest stops on the way up."

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Comfortable shoes are a must for the steep climb up Jacob's Ladder and the gorge paths .
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially on warmer days, as the climb can be demanding .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jacob's Ladder Ascent
Cheddar Gorge
Climb 274 steps for breathtaking panoramic views of the gorge and surrounding countryside.

Lookout Tower Views
Top of Jacob's Ladder
An additional 48 steps lead to the tower, offering even more expansive vistas of Somerset.

Cheddar Gorge Cliff-Top Walk
Above the gorge
Explore scenic paths with sheer drops, offering unique perspectives of the dramatic landscape.
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Planning Your Visit
Conquer Jacob's Ladder
Best Value with General Admission
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Comfortable shoes are a must for the steep climb up Jacob's Ladder and the gorge paths.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially on warmer days, as the climb can be demanding.
📸 Capture the Views
Plenty of photo opportunities, but be careful near the sheer drops.
🚶♀️ Pace Yourself
There are rest stops on the way up Jacob's Ladder.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Comfortable shoes are a must for the steep climb up Jacob's Ladder and the gorge paths.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially on warmer days, as the climb can be demanding.
📸 Capture the Views
Plenty of photo opportunities, but be careful near the sheer drops.
🚶♀️ Pace Yourself
There are rest stops on the way up Jacob's Ladder.
💰 Check Admission Packages
General admission often includes multiple attractions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views from Jacob's Ladder and the Lookout Tower, calling the climb well worth the effort for the stunning panoramas of Cheddar Gorge and Somerset. The inclusion of caves and cliff walks with general admission adds significant value. Some find the pathways challenging and steep, particularly for younger children or those with mobility issues, and advise caution.
"We walked up the ladder and around the gorge, the gorge walk wasn’t difficult but has some steep climbs to consider and I felt it later on.
Plenty of places you can stop and take photos (carefully, sheer drops) ."
mickygism
"In the area, ticked off my bucket list.Cheddar Gorge Throughly enjoyed the hike, disappointed, only did one side as the weather turned.It was really nice weather when we started warm sunny cool breeze. Gorgeous views. Amazing height looking down at the road snaking thru the gorge. Butterflies. There is a change if u use Jacobs ladder. We started at the Black Rock steep ascend and steps.panting Worth it for the views. The village is nice too. Loads of shop and places to eat and drink spoilt for choice,"
Repsol Peter
"The tower has opening hours but the steps are always open. Worth the time and effort for the views at the top. There are plenty of rest stops on the way up."
Bridget Hamlett-Orme
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jacob's Ladder is located within Cheddar Gorge. You can drive to Cheddar village and follow signs for the gorge. Parking is available in the village, with some options closer to the gorge entrance. Public transport options include buses that stop in Cheddar village.
Yes, there are several car parks in Cheddar village. Some are closer to the gorge entrance, while others are a short walk away. Be prepared for potential charges.
Cycling is a great way to explore the area. The roads leading to Cheddar Gorge are scenic, but can be steep. Secure bike parking may be limited, so plan accordingly.
Jacob's Ladder is accessed from within Cheddar Gorge. You'll typically purchase an admission ticket that grants access to the ladder and other attractions.
Yes, local bus services operate to Cheddar village, making it accessible without a car. Check local bus timetables for routes and schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Jacob's Ladder is usually included with general admission to Cheddar Gorge. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official Cheddar Gorge website for current ticket information and package deals.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance for Cheddar Gorge is recommended, especially during peak season, to guarantee entry and potentially save time queuing.
Typically, general admission includes access to Jacob's Ladder, the Lookout Tower, the cliff-top walk, and the caves (like Gough's Cave and Cox's Cave), as well as the Museum of Prehistoric History.
Yes, Cheddar Gorge often offers various ticket options, including single attraction tickets or combined passes that cover multiple sites. It's worth comparing these to find the best value for your visit.
The Lookout Tower has specific opening hours, but the steps of Jacob's Ladder are generally accessible at all times. However, it's advisable to check the official Cheddar Gorge website for any seasonal or operational changes.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Jacob's Ladder has 274 steps and can be challenging, especially for those not accustomed to steep climbs. Being short can make it feel even more demanding. There are rest stops available.
The views from the top of Jacob's Ladder and the Lookout Tower are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of Cheddar Gorge and the surrounding Somerset countryside.
There are facilities at the top, including the Lookout Tower, which offers refreshments and seating areas to enjoy the views.
While generally well-maintained, some visitors have noted that pathways can be steep and uneven in places, requiring careful footing.
Absolutely! The views are incredibly photogenic. However, exercise caution when taking photos near the sheer drops.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Cheddar village has numerous shops and places to eat and drink, offering a variety of options from cafes to pubs. You can also find refreshments at the top of the gorge.
Indeed! Cheddar cheese ice cream is a local specialty and a popular treat to try while visiting Cheddar Gorge.
While designated picnic areas might be limited, you can often find spots to sit and enjoy a packed lunch, especially along the cliff-top paths, provided you are mindful of the environment.
Cheddar village offers a range of dining experiences, including traditional pub fare, cafes, bakeries, and restaurants serving local produce.
Yes, visitors are generally welcome to bring their own food and drinks into Cheddar Gorge. This can be a cost-effective option, especially for families.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots are from the various levels of Jacob's Ladder itself, capturing the winding steps and the dramatic gorge walls. The Lookout Tower offers the most expansive panoramic shots.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful dramatic shadows and soft lighting across the gorge. Midday sun can be harsh but still offers clear views.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and popular tourist attractions due to safety and privacy concerns. It's essential to check local regulations before flying a drone.
For wide-angle shots of the gorge, use a wider aperture (smaller f-number) to capture more depth. For detailed shots of the steps or landscape, a mid-range aperture (f/8-f/11) is often ideal. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance sky and reduce glare.
While specific photography tours for Jacob's Ladder might be rare, local photography groups or guides may offer workshops in the wider Somerset region that could include Cheddar Gorge.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Active Adventurers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Climb: Jacob's Ladder and Beyond
Pacing is key for this climb. Fortunately, there are numerous rest stops strategically placed along the ascent, allowing you to catch your breath and admire the scenery without feeling rushed. The pathways can be steep and uneven in places, so wearing sturdy, comfortable footwear is essential for safety and enjoyment. The experience is not just about the destination but the journey, with opportunities to pause and appreciate the dramatic geological formations of the gorge.
Cheddar Gorge: More Than Just a Ladder
Beyond the ticketed attractions, the village of Cheddar itself is a charming place to explore. It's filled with souvenir shops, local craft stores, and numerous eateries offering everything from traditional pub fare to the unique Cheddar cheese ice cream. This makes Cheddar Gorge a destination that can easily fill a full day, catering to a variety of interests, from adventure and natural beauty to history and local culture.






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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit