Wells, Cheddar Cheese and Cheddar Gorge – Private Day Trip from Bath

Planning a day out from Bath that covers some of England’s most scenic and historic spots? This private tour offers a great way to explore Wells, Cheddar, and the breathtaking Cheddar Gorge without the hassle of public transport. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience, blending cultural highlights, stunning landscapes, and delicious local produce—all within about 8.5 hours.

One of the standout perks? The private transportation and personalized guide mean you get a flexible, intimate experience that’s tailored to your interests. Whether it’s wandering Wells Cathedral, sampling cheese in its birthplace, or taking in panoramic views from Cheddar Gorge, this tour packs a lot into a single day.

A key consideration? Since entrance fees aren’t included for Wells Cathedral and the cheese factory, you’ll want to budget a little extra. This tour is best suited for travelers who love a mix of culture, countryside, and culinary delights, and who prefer the comfort of a private guide over busy group excursions.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a knowledgeable local guide
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicle for easy travel
• Flexible itinerary that includes scenic walks, historic sites, and cheese tasting
• Valuable insights from a guide who knows the region’s hidden gems
• Ideal for small groups of up to six people for intimate, tailored visits
• Great for food and history lovers seeking authentic experiences away from crowds

An In-Depth Look at What Makes This Tour Special

This private day trip from Bath offers more than just a checklist of sights; it’s a chance to connect with England’s southwest through a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and local flavor. What earns this experience high marks—consistent across reviews—is the expert guidance of Daniel, who is praised for being both professional and personable. With a maximum of six travelers, it’s designed for those who want a more intimate, flexible outing without the rush of larger tours.

The Convenience of Private Transportation and Timing

Starting at 8:30 am, a driver will pick you up from your specified location in Bath, setting the tone for a seamless day. The private vehicle ensures you won’t need to navigate unfamiliar roads or deal with the logistical headaches of multiple stops on public transit. This means more time enjoying each location and less time stressing over schedules—an often overlooked but invaluable feature, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends.

The duration of the trip is around 8.5 hours, a solid length that balances seeing many sights with manageable travel times. Plus, the tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately and don’t worry about an unexpected rain shower.

The Charm of Wells

Our journey begins with a scenic drive through the tranquil English countryside to Wells, England’s smallest city. The highlight here is a private walking tour of the historic core, which includes the stunning Wells Cathedral, the oldest working clock in the world, and the picturesque Vicar’s Close, believed to be the oldest residential street in Europe.

Reviewers consistently praise the guide’s knowledge, noting how Daniel shared fascinating tidbits that brought the city’s architecture and history to life. One comment highlights how Wells Cathedral’s interior is spectacular, and another mentions how the guide made the visit more engaging by pointing out the cathedral’s unique features.

Exploring Wells Market Place

The tour’s pit stop at Wells Market Place gives you a taste of local life. If you visit on a Wednesday or Sunday, you can experience the bustling market stalls, which feature local produce, crafts, and perhaps some street performers. Reviewers note the Market Place’s familiarity as a filming location in the cult film Hot Fuzz, adding a fun pop-culture connection.

The Iconic Wells Cathedral and Vicar’s Close

While entrance fees are not included, visiting Wells Cathedral is a must-do. Its soaring arches and intricate stonework are impressive, and the interior’s tranquil ambiance invites you to soak it all in. Some reviewers mention the extraordinary craftsmanship and the historical significance of the clock, which is the second oldest working clock in the world.

Vicar’s Close, just a short walk away, provides a glimpse into medieval life. Its well-preserved cobbled streets and old residential buildings make it a photographer’s dream and a peaceful spot to reflect on the city’s long history.

The Culinary and Cultural Highlight: Cheddar

After around three hours in Wells, the tour heads south to Cheddar, famous for its cheese. Here, you’ll enjoy a lunch at a traditional English pub, which many reviewers describe as a cozy, filling experience. This break offers a chance to relax before exploring the town’s legendary gorge.

Sampling Authentic Cheddar Cheese

The heart of the cheese experience is a visit to the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company, the only small factory producing traditional Cheddar in the area. Reviewers rave about how engaging the guide is—many mention being lucky enough to see cheese being made right before their eyes—and how delicious the tastings are, especially the cave-matured variety.

The opportunity to buy cheese as souvenirs or to enjoy later is an added bonus. One reviewer shared how they sampled a cheese that had been matured in local caves—a unique tasting experience that truly connects you to the region.

The Breathtaking Cheddar Gorge

The final highlight is a drive through the spectacular Cheddar Gorge, England’s largest gorge. The views are universally described as stunning, with panoramic vistas that make the steep drive worth it. For the adventurous, there’s an optional walk to a favored viewpoint, which involves a steep 15-minute climb on uneven ground. Reviewers note that this can be muddy if it’s rained recently, so it’s best suited for those with a moderate level of fitness.

Many guests mention how the scenery here rivals the best in England, with some even describing the sight of the gorge as “breathtaking.” It’s a fitting conclusion to a day that’s as visually impressive as it is culturally enriching.

Return to Bath

After an hour exploring the gorge, your guide will drive you back to Bath, completing a full yet manageable day of discovery. The small group size and private setup make the return trip relaxed, allowing you to reflect on the sights or do a bit of planning for the rest of your trip.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The price for this tour is around $802 for up to six people, which breaks down to roughly $134 per person, considering the private transport and guide. This might seem steep, but when you factor in the exclusive nature, comfort, and the number of sights covered, many travelers find it offers good value.

Included in your experience:
– Private guide and transportation
– Hotel pickup and drop-off

Not included:
– Entrance fees for Wells Cathedral and the cheese factory
– Lunch and refreshments

Since entrance fees are not included, travelers should budget a little extra, but most reviews mention that the cost of the cheese and optional activities is reasonable and well worth it.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those who crave a personalized, flexible experience—perfect for small groups, families, or couples. It suits travelers who enjoy history, scenic landscapes, and authentic local food. If you prefer to skip the crowds and want insider knowledge from a guide who knows the region well, this is a fantastic choice.

It’s also a great option if you want a stress-free day with comfortable transport that covers a lot of ground, from medieval architecture to jaw-dropping natural scenery. If you’re on a tight schedule but still wish to see some of England’s less touristy gems, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Mostly yes, but the optional gorge walk involves a steep climb on uneven terrain, which may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues. The rest of the day is comfortably paced.

How much walking is involved?
There’s some walking in Wells’ historic centre and around the cathedral, but it’s generally manageable. The optional gorge walk is a bit more strenuous, depending on your choice.

Are entrance fees included?
No, visitors should budget for Wells Cathedral and the cheese factory separately, as these are not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. Since the tour operates in all weather, bring rain gear if needed.

Can I customize this tour?
As a private experience, it’s flexible. You can discuss specific interests or needs with your guide, making it a tailored day.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 132 days ahead, so early booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Final Thoughts

This private tour from Bath offers a thoughtfully curated taste of England’s stunning southwest, combining historic charm, natural beauty, and delicious local produce. It’s perfect for travelers who want a deep, authentic experience without the hassle of navigating alone. The guide’s knowledge, the scenic stops, and the intimate group size make it stand out from typical tours.

While it demands some additional spending for entrance fees and food, many find the overall value well worth it for the quality of the experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just in search of beautiful landscapes, this trip delivers on all fronts.

In the end, it’s a memorable way to see some of England’s most picturesque spots in one day, with the comfort of private transport and expert guidance—ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet enriching adventure.