The Royal Forest of Dean

One of England’s few remaining ancient forests, the Forest of Dean covers over 27,000 acres of woodland. Steeped in history, abundant in local food, rich in culture and bursting with spectacular scenery, the Royal Forest of Dean offers you the chance to discover a part of England unlike any other.

The Royal Forest of Dean consists of four quite different landscape areas:

The Ancient Royal Forest lies at the very heart of the district with the market towns of Coleford and Cinderford offering insight into the industrial heritage and history of this fascinating area.

The Wye Valley is an area of outstanding natural beauty, offering endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as canoeing and fishing on what is perhaps Britain’s most unspoilt major river, including the breathtaking Symonds Yat. For historic splendor visit Chepstow Castle, Monmouth and the magnificent Tintern Abbey.

The Vel of Leadon is a quintessential unspoilt English area featuring rolling farmland, vineyards and black and white timbered buildings centred around the picturesque town of Newent.

The Severn Valley,through which flows the country’s longest river, is famous for its tidal bore, Blaison Plums and Perry Pears. Visit the delightful Westbury Court Gardens owned by the National Trust, the only formal Dutch water garden in the UK.