GB cave

Deep beneath the Mendip Hills lies one of Somerset's lesser-known underground chambers, a proper cave system that feels worlds away from the tourist crowds at nearby Cheddar Gorge. The limestone formations here are genuinely impressive - stalactites hang like ancient chandeliers while flowstone cascades down the walls in frozen waterfalls. You'll need a torch and decent footwear as the path can be slippery in places.

Cave enthusiasts and geology buffs will find plenty to marvel at, though families with very young children might struggle with the uneven terrain. The temperature stays constant year-round, making it a brilliant escape on hot summer days when you're staying at one of the holiday parks around Cheddar.

Allow at least an hour for a proper look, though you could easily spend longer if you're keen on underground formations. The cave sits just outside Cheddar itself, so it's perfectly placed for those based at Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa or the various campsites dotted around the area. Worth combining with a walk on the Mendips above - the contrast between the dark cave and the rolling hills is rather lovely.