Of the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley
We have a very rich heritage here in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley of which we are rightly proud. A former royal hunting forest, the Dean has a long past as a source of timber for ships and building, coal, charcoal, iron ore, ochre and limestone. Archaeological studies have dated the earliest use of coal to Roman times. But the area was inhabited well before that in Mesolithic times and there are even remains of megalithic monuments. One of the few surviving ancient woodlands in England, a large area was reserved for royal hunting before 1066, and remained as the second largest crown forest in England. The Speech House Hotel was built in 1682 to host the Court of Mine Law and "Court of the Speech" and you can still eat in the Verderers Court today.
The area has had a resurgence in recent years thanks to tourism, and we are lucky that because of this many important sites have been preserved for future generations. From the pick axe marks on the walls at Clearwell Caves to the underground mine tours at Hopewell Colliery, the monuments to fallen miners in towns and in the forest, to the museums which tell their story such as the Dean Heritage Centre, to the old railway lines and bridges now cycle paths and footbridges and the Dean Forest Railway still running steam trains through the forest today... the heritage is such an important part of what makes this area so special.
The Wye Valley is considered to be both the birthplace of British tourism and also the birthplace of the industrial revolution. With more castles than anywhere else in the UK, there is a strong history of conflict and defence, as well as religion and craftsmanship. From Tintern Abbey to Goodrich Castle, Monnow Bridge to Offa's Dyke, the Wye Valley has a wealth of heritage to see and explore to this day. With its beauty it is easy to forget why some of these fortifications were built, but the arrow slits, cannons and dungeons remind us of their history too.
Gloucestershire Libraries offer free, inclusive community spaces to read, learn, work and connect,… Gloucestershire Libraries offer free, inclusive community spaces to read, learn, work and connect, supporting wellbeing, creativity and digital skills.
Beautifully preserved and stretching out along a limestone cliff above the River Wye, Chepstow… Beautifully preserved and stretching out along a limestone cliff above the River Wye, Chepstow Castle’s beauty is matched only by its historical significance.
Fine formal gardens open every spring April-June only and for groups. Beautiful rhododendron and… Fine formal gardens open every spring April-June only and for groups. Beautiful rhododendron and azalea gardens, ponds, waterfalls, temples and ruins. Important Roman Temple…
Prices from:
£120.00
A former historic hunting lodge located in the centre of the Royal Forest of Dean. With 35 en-suite… A former historic hunting lodge located in the centre of the Royal Forest of Dean. With 35 en-suite bedrooms, a cosy bar, pretty garden with heated dining dens, two…
Mined since the 1800s, the colliery gives you a unique opportunity to learn about the ancient and… Mined since the 1800s, the colliery gives you a unique opportunity to learn about the ancient and fascinating tradition of freemining in the safe hands of an expert freeminer.
Wander enchanting twisting tree-root paths at Puzzlewood, the Forest of Dean set seen in Star Wars,… Wander enchanting twisting tree-root paths at Puzzlewood, the Forest of Dean set seen in Star Wars, Doctor Who & more. Tickets, opening times and handy tips.
Explore Raglan Castle – a striking fortress rising above Monmouthshire's rolling countryside.… Explore Raglan Castle – a striking fortress rising above Monmouthshire's rolling countryside. Discover its history, impressive towers, and dramatic ruins, just a short trip…
Visitors of all ages can discover books, ideas and new skills in a friendly, inclusive space that… Visitors of all ages can discover books, ideas and new skills in a friendly, inclusive space that supports learning, creativity and community connection.
When we talk about British architectural icons, they don’t come much more iconic than Tintern… When we talk about British architectural icons, they don’t come much more iconic than Tintern Abbey: a Gothic masterpiece and Romantic symbol of the sublime.
Journey through the medieval Forest of Dean from Lydney to Parkend on a steam train or heritage… Journey through the medieval Forest of Dean from Lydney to Parkend on a steam train or heritage diesel train service. Free parking, cafeteria, museum and gift shop at…
Discover the Wonder of Under! These atmospheric ancient mines at Clearwell Caves are an exciting… Discover the Wonder of Under! These atmospheric ancient mines at Clearwell Caves are an exciting underground world for the whole family to discover.
Monmouth Town Council is the voice of local government for Monmouth, Wales. Monmouth Town Council is the voice of local government for Monmouth, Wales.
Family friendly visitor attraction with indoor & outdoor play areas and woodland walks. Tickets… Family friendly visitor attraction with indoor & outdoor play areas and woodland walks. Tickets include unlimited train rides all day. Dog friendly & Cafe.
Coleford Library offers free access to information and shared spaces to work, learn and connect,… Coleford Library offers free access to information and shared spaces to work, learn and connect, helping people build skills and confidence.
We are the Museum of the Forest of Dean. Discover local history, explore the Gruffalo Trail and… We are the Museum of the Forest of Dean. Discover local history, explore the Gruffalo Trail and playground, and shop local in our Gift Shop.
Formerly the site of the New Fancy coal mine, the old spoil heap now provides spectacular views… Formerly the site of the New Fancy coal mine, the old spoil heap now provides spectacular views across the Forest. Great for birdwatching and for woodland walks. Easy access…
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Dates:
18th Sept 2026 - 26th Oct 2026
Next Event Date:
6th Oct 2026
Make your visit extra special with a tour of the Cathedral's beautiful, hidden library. Make your visit extra special with a tour of the Cathedral's beautiful, hidden library.
Dates:
29th Sept 2026 - 29th Sept 2026
Unwind with an evening of inspiring music, experiencing the magnificence of our new Cathedral organ. Unwind with an evening of inspiring music, experiencing the magnificence of our new Cathedral organ.
Dates:
24th Oct 2026 - 24th Oct 2026
Discover the fascinating connections between Edward Jenner, John Hunter and the mysterious ‘Long… Discover the fascinating connections between Edward Jenner, John Hunter and the mysterious ‘Long Man’.
Dates:
1st Aug 2026 - 30th Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
17th Oct 2026
Step back in time with Brother Thomas and learn what life was like as a monk in Tintern Abbey. Step back in time with Brother Thomas and learn what life was like as a monk in Tintern Abbey.
Event Dates:
8th Aug 2026 - 11th Oct 2026
Next Event Date:
10th Oct 2026
Come to Tintern Abbey to see majestic birds of prey in flight.
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Event Dates:
2nd Oct 2026 - 4th Oct 2026
Explore Monmouth through a number of events including storytelling, crafts…
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Event Dates:
9th Oct 2026 - 9th Oct 2026
BBC Radio 4 Any Questions?
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Event Dates:
5th Nov 2026 - 5th Nov 2026
Join us for an unforgettable evening with Mike Tindall & John Inverdale,…
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Event Dates:
7th Nov 2026 - 7th Nov 2026
The Forest of Dean's biggest community bonfire & fireworks night. Funfair,…
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Event Dates:
12th Nov 2026 - 12th Nov 2026
Join Paul Coldwell for a dazzling journey through 500 years of art, ideas…
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A free augmented reality (AR) app showing the town's history across 12 different sites. A free augmented reality (AR) app showing the town's history across 12 different sites.
Prices from:
£35.00
It's not your average day out. Are you ready to go beyond the tourist trail? It's not your average day out. Are you ready to go beyond the tourist trail?
Duration: 4 Days 3 Nights
Enjoy an arty weekend in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley with sculpture trails, galleries, creative… Enjoy an arty weekend in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley with sculpture trails, galleries, creative workshops, and inspiring places to visit.
Duration: 5 Days 4 Nights
A 5-day arty mid-week break exploring sculpture trails, galleries, Tintern Abbey, and creative… A 5-day arty mid-week break exploring sculpture trails, galleries, Tintern Abbey, and creative spots in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
Explore Ross-on-Wye's history through the life of one of its benefactors: Thomas Blake! Explore Ross-on-Wye's history through the life of one of its benefactors: Thomas Blake!
Duration: 1 Hour
Distance 2.2 Miles
Explore Ross-on-Wye with this easy riverside and town walk. Discover historic landmarks, the River… Explore Ross-on-Wye with this easy riverside and town walk. Discover historic landmarks, the River Wye, The Prospect gardens and independent shops along the way.
Explore the Coppett Hill Walk near Goodrich Castle. A 6.3-mile circular route with hilltop views,… Explore the Coppett Hill Walk near Goodrich Castle. A 6.3-mile circular route with hilltop views, woodland paths and riverside stretches in the Wye Valley.
Explore Newent’s medieval past with this self-guided walking trail. Discover historic timber-framed… Explore Newent’s medieval past with this self-guided walking trail. Discover historic timber-framed buildings, ancient streets and hidden stories in this charming…
Explore three historic days out in the Wye Valley and Monmouthshire, including Tintern Abbey, Chepstow Castle and Raglan Castle, perfect for a summer break
Visit Raglan Castle this summer for Welsh history, striking towers, countryside views, falconry days and living history events.
Read moreExplore Chepstow Castle this summer, with 900 years of history, River Wye views, family events and plenty to discover in the town nearby.
Read moreTintern Abbey is a must visit destination, find out why it should be on your bucket list this summer.
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