Cowshed Cottage is based in the beautiful Royal Forest of Dean & overlooking the Wye Valley

Welcome to one of England's few remaining ancient forests, covering over 110 square kilometres of woodland. The Forest of Dean lies between the rivers Wye and Severn, in the western part of Gloucestershire, and on the borders of Wales and Herefordshire.

The Forest is one of the most distinctive areas of Britain having a seductive charm and character that is uniquely its own. Designated as a National Forest Park in 1938, this ’Queen of Forests’ boasts a spectacular range of natural beauty combined with an aura of magic and mystery that has been the inspiration for many great artists and writers including Dennis Potter, JRR Tolkien and JK Rowling.

The seasons bring an ever-changing landscape, from the vivid blues and yellows of wild bluebells and daffodils in spring, to the blaze of gold and russet colours during autumn. Nature and wildlife is abundant, complemented by a wealth of local fare and a true ‘Forest’ welcome, which awaits all visitors.

Local Attractions

	Clearwell Caves Nine large caverns open to visitors, descending 100ft underground. Superb natural cave system mined for iron ore and ochre pigment for over 4,500 years. The Rocks, Clearwell, Coleford, Gloucestershire. Tel: 01594 832535
	Cannop Ponds - a popular fishing lake and home to mandarin ducks. Large flat grassy area for family games and BBQs. Good access to cycleways. Good shady car park. Speech House Road, Broadwell, Coleford, Gloucestershire Tel: 01594 833057
	Beechenhurst Lodge Picnic site with views over the Cannop Valley. Starting point for the Sculpture Trail walk. Cafe, shop, information boards, toilets (inc. disabled), barbecues, play equipment for children. Parking. Access to cycleway. Speech House Road, Broadwell, Coleford, Gloucestershire Tel: 01594 827357
	Puzzle Wood. Test your sense of direction to the limits in our indoor wooden maze; secret doors, hidden passageways and dead ends. Meet the farm animals; then have a snack in our tea room while the chilldren enjoy the Children's Adventure trail. Puzzle Wood, Coleford, Gloucestershire Tel: 01594 833187
	Lydney Harbour has recently been restored to preserve its historical importance as a key player in the industrial development of the Forest of Dean. Lydney Harbour Docks, Harbour Industrial Estate, Lydney, Gloucestershire.
	Perrygrove Railway is the steam train for all ages - and all weathers! A charming railway where friendly staff welcome you. Fun for children in 20 acres and an indoor village with secret passages, each with paths to walk through ancient woods.Lots of picnic tables outside and under cover. Perrygrove Road, Coleford, Gloucestershire Tel: 01594 834991
	Raglan castle is undoubtedly the finest late medieval fortress-palace in Britain. A lavish proclamation of the success of an entrepreneurial Welsh family, it was begun, probably on the site of a small Norman castle, during the 1430's by Sir William ap Thomas. Raglan, Monmouthshire NP15 2BT.
	Hereford Cathedral's main role is as a centre of Christian mission and the seat of the Bishop. Each day, three acts of worship take place which ensure that the life of prayer which gives energy to Christian mission is carried on.
	Situated in the centre of the Forest of Dean, adjacent to the way-marked Cycle Trail of 12 miles, Pedalabikeaway provide a range of modest cycles for the less adventurous cyclist to experience a casual cycling encounter on safe traffic free hard stoned forest tracks or on the special Cycle Trail. Visit: www.pedalabikeaway.co.uk
	The Old Station for Tintern was on the now long gone Wye Valley Railway. It is situated well out of the village at the northern end. There is also a car park (50p) at the site. 'Country Luxury' magazine named Tintern Old Station as one of the UK's top 25 tearooms.
	Set in five acres of tranquil, landscaped gardens in the beautiful Wye Valley, The Crown at Whitebrook is a haven from the stresses of modern day life. The restaurant is at the heart of the establishment and is one of less than a handful in the whole of Wales to boast a coveted Michelin Star, perfect for food lovers.

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