The marvellous Mendips, from Cheddar Gorge to Weston-Super-Mare

England is renowned for its scenic beauty, which can be seen in all corners of this 'green and pleasant land.' However, if you're travelling through rural Somerset, you'll see why the South West is a top contender for England's most beautiful county - from the stunning rock formations of Cheddar Gorge to the remarkable views from the Mendip Hills.



The Mendips, as the hills are commonly known, have long been favourites of outdoor enthusiasts, from ramblers keen to enjoy the breathtaking views to mountain climbers taking on the challenge of the limestone rocks. The diversity of the region also makes it popular with everyone from cave divers to natural history enthusiasts, and it's this wide-ranging appeal that has helped the Mendip Hills become officially recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).



Even with all the efforts of conservationists to preserve this beauty, you won't find it a challenge to get around and find tourist-friendly routes on your visit to the protected area - just as long as you remember to act responsibly and do your part to help conserve the landscape for future generations. If you're braving the hills on foot, you shouldn't find it too much of a challenge even to reach the highest point in the region, at Black Down, where you can get up close to local wildlife and see as far as Wales, if the weather is on your side.

You don't have to risk the rain and exhaustion to enjoy the Mendips firsthand though, when you take Bristol car hire to see the sights on a day trip out of the area's biggest city. The Mendips have a long association with roads that stretches right back to Roman times, but travellers will be relieved to know that the road infrastructure has been improved somewhat since then. The M5 motorway and A38 pass through the western edge of the hills, making them easy to reach from wherever you are in the UK.



If you are staying in Bristol, or other nearby conurbations such as Weston-Super-Mare, you should also take the opportunity to explore urban Somerset, which can be an eye-opening experience too. Bristol in particular has earned a reputation as one of Britain's premier tourist destinations, with lots of attractions for all the family to enjoy and events taking place all year round, whether you're a local or making the trip over for the weekend.