Not just a Forest. (Royal Forest of Dean)

Member Name: Bryn Pearson

Product:	Royal Forest of Dean
Date:	14/05/01 (319 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: lots to do, not too touristy.

Disadvantages: none

Once the Forest of Dean was a great forest stretching between the Severn River and Wales. Over the years, man has encroached and now its not a single piece of woodland, but many woods punctuated by towns, villages, roads and farmalnd.

The Forest of Dean includes many featuers that make it an excellent place to visit. The forested areas are wonderful, full of well marked paths that are easily walked. Expect to see deer, birds and wild mamals, as well as lots of sheep.

The River Wye runs through the Forest of Dean and down to meet the Severn at Chepstow (where there is an excellent castle that's a must for visitors). The river can be swum in, and is popular for canoing. Symonds Yat features a large rock popular with rock climbers.

The Boat Inn at Redbrook is well worth dropping in to - they do great fod, the garden is full of waterfalls and they are yards from the Wye. A beautiful spot, and a good palce to walk from.

Clearwell has caves, which are a good place to visit.

There is a small steam museum at Coleford - very popular with children. There is also the evernm steam railway, if you want the full experience.

Tintern Abbey is one of the forests greatest gems. This large building still has significant sections in tact, and is situated in the picturesque Tinternet villlage, beside the Wye. If you go to the forest, Tintern is an absolute must - there's lots to do and see, some great pubs and its a beautiful area.

In Summer there are lots of really good places to camp. There is B&B and some hotels as well. Its not a terribly expnesive place to stay and has been overlooked by tourists - a great loss to those looking for UK holidays.

From The Forest of Dean area you can go down to the Severn, to Chepstow and to Monmouth. At Chepstow there is horse racing. I would also recomend crossing the Severn bridges - an experience in itself.

Summary: