Wye Valley & Forest of Dean
Our location and the local area
Surrounded by ancient woodland, rolling valleys and a wealth of things to see and do — you’ll never be short of inspiration.
The perfect rural location
Cowshed Cottage and The Dairy are situation on our 180 acre farm in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, on the edge of the Wye Valley and close to the border with Wales. We are less than a mile from the picturesque village of Newland and 1.5 miles from the town of Coleford. There are many footpaths from your door that can lead you directly into woodland, villages and towns with stunning views and an abundance of wildlife all around.
The Forest of Dean is one of England’s few remaining ancient forests, covering over 110 square kilometres of woodland between the rivers Wye and Severn, in the west of Gloucestershire and on the borders of Wales and Herefordshire. It has 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. With miles of footpaths, quaint villages, attractions and activities it’s a perfect holiday destination. Coleford offers a wide range of independent shops including a deli, a fish and chip shop, several cafes and restaurants and a cinema.
The stunning Wye Valley is a landscape of dramatic limestone cliffs, hills, woodland and epic views. The picturesque village of Redbrook is just two miles away with walks along the River Wye and two pubs. The market town of Monmouth is just four miles away and offers theatre, shopping and plenty of dining experiences. There are castles and ruins aplenty too including Tintern Abbey and the castles of Goodrich, Chepstow and Raglan.
Nature and wildlife is abundant here, complemented by a wealth of local fare and a true ‘Forest’ welcome, which awaits all visitors. 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. There’s so much to do and see that we couldn’t possibly fit it all in here, so we’ve selected a few of the area’s best attractions – tailored to the majority of our guests who are couples and families. We’ve also provided links to the official tourist information websites for the area which provide a comprehensive breakdown of everything on offer around our fabulous location.
Restaurants and cafes
Food and drink
This area is a food-lover’s paradise, with a wealth of local produce, restaurants, pubs and cafes.
Local Dining
The Ostrich Inn, Newland
Our local pub, this is less than a mile away. Renowned for its excellent food it is one of the best restaurants in the area and caters for a wide variety of tastes, including vegetarians, and has a range of real ales with up to eight on tap. Small but pretty pub garden. Booking advisable.
Address: The Ostrich Inn, Newland, GL16 8NP
Website: https://www.theostrichinn.com/
Getting there: A walk of less than a mile down a country lane brings you to the village. The walk is downhill on the way to the pub and uphill (200 feet) on the way back. Alternatively it is a 3-minute drive with on-street parking in front of the pub.
nearby convenience
Coleford and Monmouth
Our two local towns have a varied selection of shops, restaurants, pubs, bakeries, delis and supermarkets including Waitrose, Marks & Spencer, Tesco, Co-op and Lidl. Don’t forget to pop into the Forest Deli in Coleford which is well stocked with local produce.
Wye Valley
The Old Station, Tintern
Once on the long-gone Wye Valley Railway, this restored station includes a car park and tearoom. Named by ‘Country Luxury’ magazine as one of the UK’s top 25 tearooms — well worth a visit.
LOCAL ATTRACTIONS
Things to see and do
There’s so much to see and do that we couldn’t possibly fit it all in — so here’s a selection of some of the area’s best attractions to get you started.
history & Heritage
The Cathedral of the Forest, Newland
All Saints Church at Newland, traditionally and affectionately known as the ‘Cathedral of the Forest’, dates back to the early 1200s and was built before the village of Newland came into existence. See the medieval floor tiles, 17th century tombs, monuments and effigies and the original ‘Miners Brass’, a symbol of the Royal Forest of Dean, along with intricate tapestries and beautiful stained glass.
Address: All Saints Church, Almshouses Rd, Newland, GL16 8NL (on street parking only)
Website: https://www.allsaintsnewland.com/
Underground
Clearwell Caves
Nine large caverns open to visitors, descending 100ft underground. A superb natural cave system mined for iron ore and ochre pigment for over 4,500 years.
Address: The Rocks, Clearwell.
MAGICAL forest
Puzzlewood
A magical attraction for all ages in the heart of the Forest of Dean — perfect for days out with the kids. Please note dogs and pushchairs are not permitted.
viewpoint & Cafe
Symonds Yat Rock
Discover an ancient hill fort, spot birds of prey and enjoy a snack at the log cabin café. Waymarked trails link to the River Wye and circular forest walks. RSPB volunteers on hand April to September for Peregrine Falcon spotting.
Lakeside & walking
Cannop Ponds
A popular fishing lake and home to mandarin ducks, with a large flat grassy area for family games and barbecues. Good access to cycle-ways and a shady car park.
Picnic & Sculpture
Beechenhurst Lodge
Views over the Cannop Valley and starting point for the Sculpture Trail walk. Café, shop, toilets, barbecues, children’s play equipment, parking and cycle-way access.
History & Heritage
Lydney Harbour
Recently restored to preserve its historical importance, Lydney Harbour Docks was a key player in the industrial development of the Forest of Dean.
Address: Lydney Harbour Docks, Harbour Industrial Estate, Lydney, Gloucestershire.
Cycling
Pedalabikeaway
Situated in the centre of the Forest of Dean, adjacent to the 12-mile family cycle trail. Pedalabikeaway offer a range of cycle hire across a network of safe, traffic-free trails — perfect for all abilities.
History & Culture
Hereford Cathedral
Home of the Mappa Mundi and seat of the Bishop of Hereford. Three acts of worship take place daily, and the cathedral is a living centre of Christian mission and heritage open to all visitors.
Castle
Raglan Castle
Undoubtedly the finest late medieval fortress-palace in Britain — begun in the 1430s by Sir William ap Thomas. A lavish and spectacular piece of Welsh history.
Address: Raglan, Monmouthshire NP15 2BT.
Getting around
There are walking paths from the door and we provide maps in the cottage. You can walk along rural footpaths to Newland (less than a mile) and Coleford (1 mile). Rural buses are available.
Local taxi services (advisable to book in advance):
CDS Taxis – 01594 834834
Martin Hill Taxi – 07551 300 100
Forest Cabs – 01594 832802
We Hope You Can Visit Us Soon!
Ready to book?
Check your dates and reserve your stay – we’d love to welcome you.