Ebbor Gorge

Ebbor Gorge is a dramatic limestone ravine carved into the southern edge of the Mendip Hills, a National Nature Reserve where the gorge walls rise steeply through ancient woodland of ash, yew and field maple. This 6.4 km circuit drops into the gorge itself, following the narrow, rocky floor where the limestone closes in overhead, before climbing out to elevated viewpoints with views across the Somerset Levels. The 182 m of climbing is concentrated on the ascent from the gorge floor, and the terrain is rough and uneven in places with exposed rock and tree roots. The gorge has a sheltered, enclosed quality quite different from the open hilltop above, and the transition between the two gives the walk genuine variety.

This is a dog friendly walk that combines woodland intimacy with proper views. The gorge floor carries cool, damp scent from mossy limestone and decaying leaf litter, and the ancient woodland supports rich birdlife. Off-lead potential is limited as livestock graze the grassland above the gorge, so leads should be carried and used where sheep are present. The rocky, uneven terrain in the gorge demands reasonable agility from dogs, and the steep sections require sure-footedness. There is limited water access on the route. The combination of dramatic geology, ancient woodland and hilltop views gives this walk real character, and the gorge itself has an atmosphere that feels almost prehistoric. Parking is available at the small car park off the lane.