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Newent - One of the most picturesque towns in the Forest of Dean
One of the oldest inhabited towns in the Forest of Dean, Newent has been settled since at least Roman times and appeared in the 1086 Domesday Book of William the Conqueror.
As well as having a long and rich history, Newent is one of the most picturesque towns in the region with over 100 listed buildings, which makes for a great base to explore the Forest of Dean.
Here are just a few reasons why Newent should form part of your itinerary.
Shop into history in the Market Square
Newent’s Market Square includes several historical buildings, including the Market House. Built in 1668, this replaced an earlier structure dating back to the 13th century.
Newent is a thriving market town with independent retailers including clothing at Country Corner, Raft, Gooch Sports & Leisure, and Bookster Tailoring; food and drink at local butchers Andy Creese, Wyedean Wholefoods and All Seasons Delicatessen.
On the main streets find arts and crafts at Patchwork Basket and Flowercraft florist then venture into the Shambles shopping village. This Victorian arcade also features pop-up shops, plus plenty of restaurants and cafes to grab a pick-me-up espresso, slice of cake or spot of lunch.
Newent also has a number of convenience stores and a Coop supermarket for where you can stock up on essentials.
Come face to face with birds of prey
Just outside the town is the International Centre for Birds of Prey. Run by an international charity, the ICBP is involved in projects worldwide to protect and save many of the most endangered species of bird of prey from disappearing.
The Centre is easily one of the top family friendly destinations in the region, and experiences include a half day bird of prey encounter where you come face to face with owls and falcons. Or, there are also special owl evenings.
Visit one of England’s oldest vineyards
One of England’s oldest vineyards, Three Choirs Vineyard combines luxury accommodation with a brasserie and vineyard.
Three Choirs produces 250,000 bottles a year of both white and red wine, and there are regular wine tasting events, take a look at the website for details of when these happen.
Soak up nature at Newent Lake and Park
Set in the former grounds of Newent Court, Newent Lake Park is a haven for wildlife all year round. The lake itself was completely restocked with fish in 1998.
There is a sign-posted 20-minute walk if you want to see both the park and lake in a leisurely fashion.
Newent Arboretum
An area of natural peace and tranquillity located on the southern outskirts of Newent, the Millennium Arboretum is one of the area’s newest attractions. Offering a tranquil environment to take a picnic, for children to play, or to enjoy walking the dog, the nine-acre site is a popular place to get away from it all. Lose yourself for hours among 5,000 trees and shrubs, which has become a haven for butterflies, wildlife and birds.
Eating and drinking in Newent
Newent’s rich architecture includes three listed public houses - The George Hotel, The Black Dog, and Bar and Kitchen at the Red Lion, which gets rave reviews for exceptional service and great prices.
If cheese, meats and tasty treats are your thing, the All Seasons Delicatessen’s cafe is for you, while The Buttery Tea Rooms is a great place to stop for coffee. Don’t forget the Kings Arms, a family-friendly pub that serves gluten-free battered cod on Fridays.
The Kilcot Inn is an award-winning country pub with a beautiful Rose Garden and unique African Pods for al fresco dining. Children are always welcome and enjoy burning off energy in its enclosed play area. Dogs are welcome in the bar area of the pub.
At nearby Longhope the Harts Barn Craft Centre has a cafe and cookery school which offers regular dining experiences such as its famous supper clubs. Hillside Brewery hosts brewery tours and a shop where you can buy its award-winning local ales, while the Glasshouse Inn at May Hill is an historic pub surrounded by beautiful countryside.
Where to stay in and near Newent
In the heart of Newent is The George Hotel, which combines accommodation with an adjoining Gastropub.
Planning a romantic getaway and looking for comfortable surroundings? Visit The Granary or The Shepherd's Hut at Briary Hill Llamas, where you can stay in luxury and enjoy a llama trekking experience.
A short drive from the centre are options to sleep in the heart of a vineyard or wake up overlooking vine-clad valleys at Three Choirs Vineyard, while the Kilcot Inn boasts four Four-Star rooms and one of the best breakfasts in the county.
Outdoor living can be found at Mrs Mills Yurts, part of May Hill Glamping’s indulgent and stylish campsite on the slopes of May Hill, the iconic National Trust landmark, or in nearby Huntley is Forest Gate Camping and Caravanning, with 25 pitches in the grounds of a former Victorian Rectory.
On the lower slopes of May Hill is Coldcroft Farm B&B, a must for horse lovers, which in addition to the equine school boasts a shire horse experience that is unique, personal, and tailored to each individual. The Glasshouse Inn also offers self-catering lodges set in picturesque surroundings on the slopes of May Hill.
Finally, for golfers, check out the Newent Golf Club and Lodges, which offer rooms adjoining the nine hole course.
What’s on in Newent
- The Onion Fayre every September is an annual street fair in celebration of the noble onion.
- Annual Remembrance Parade in November
- Annual Christmas lights and Christmas Tree Festival in November and December
- The weekly Newent Vitality Park Run.
Want to know more? Contact the Tourist Information Office, or head over to our accommodation page to book a stay in Newent.
Many of the images on this page are credited to Robin Lister CPAGB who retains the copyright.
