Celebrating National Cheese Day – A Nod to Cheddar’s Rich History

When you hear the word “Cheddar,” it’s hard not to think of the famously delicious cheese that shares its name with the picturesque village of Cheddar in Somerset.

Interestingly, the name “Cheddar” was originally spelled “Ceodor,” meaning “dark cavity”, a likely reference to the dramatic and awe inspiring Cheddar Gorge, which has captivated visitors for centuries.

To mark National Cheese Day, the CotswoldXL team is excited to share a selection of fascinating historical images featuring dwellings near the Cheddar Caves, nestled within the mighty gorge itself.

Dating back to the late 1800s, these humble homes may have once housed miners, farmers, or cheesemakers working near the caves, first discovered in 1837. These individuals played a vital role in the area’s rich agricultural and geological heritage.

The gorge has been a site of human settlement since Neolithic times, and it holds a significant place in British archaeological history. Most notably, it was here that the remains of “Cheddar Man,” Britain’s oldest complete human skeleton, were discovered in 1903.

Do You Have a Slice of Cheddar History?

We’d love to hear from you!

If you have any photographs, stories, or information related to Cheddar Gorge, the caves, or its historical residents, please get in touch!

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