Rod's Pot

Twenty feet below ground, this narrow limestone cave opens up just enough for a proper exploration without needing any specialist kit. Rod's Pot sits in the Mendip Hills near Cheddar, part of the same cave system that created the famous gorge but far less touristy. You'll need a torch and sturdy shoes - the entrance is a tight squeeze through rocks, but once inside it's manageable for anyone reasonably fit.

Families with adventurous teenagers will love this. It's proper caving without the claustrophobia of some Mendip holes, though toddlers definitely won't cope with the scramble in. The cave runs roughly 100 metres back into the hillside, with some lovely flowstone formations if you know where to look.

Access is free but finding it takes a bit of local knowledge - ask at Cheddar village or check with the local caving groups for directions. Allow an hour for a thorough poke around, though keen cavers often spend longer photographing the formations.

Staying at one of the nearby sites like Cheddar Woods Resort makes this an easy addition to a Somerset break. It's walking distance from several of the Mendip campsites, and combines well with the main Cheddar attractions if you want to mix proper adventure with the standard tourist trail.