High Beeches rests at the highest point of the Royal Forest of Dean [RFOD] which is one of England's few remaining ancient forests, covering over 20 000 acres of ancient woodland. Nestled between the River Wye on the South Wales border to the River Severn on the Eastern border, this Forest offers an inspirational landscape.
The
famous
UK playwriter Dennis
Potter referred to the RFOD as "this heart shaped land" providing
spectacular scenery with breathtaking views of the Wye Valley and
Severn River. RFOD was formerly a hunting ground for Norman Kings and
in 1938 was designated a National Forest Park, the first in England.
This designation recognised the areas natural beauty and potential for
outdoor leisure.
This photo was taken by our Canadian guests 2008 at Symonds Yat stretch of master River Wye, famous for its fishing. 10mins drive from High Beeches this Forest & Wye Valley landscape is superbly scenic. Canoe & kayak down the River Wye, or take the Kingfishers boat trip with commentary on the Wye Valley tour from outside the Saracens Head Inn which has stood for centuries in it’s spectacular position where the river flows into a steep wooded gorge, on the edge of the Royal Forest of Dean. Inn has fine food, local beer & wines.
Get back to High Beeches tho' for setting sun - finest in forest!Today the diverse Forest landscape provides the ideal place for a wide variety of outdoor pursuits. If lazy, dont move from High Beeches - enjoy being in the garden, on the terrace, or in front of a fine fire enjoying the book and video collection. Relax and romance!
Within minutes of High Beeches there is superb countryside and
designated walking trails. A chance to discover the flora and fauna of
the Royal Forest and ancient woodlands. This Forest and Wye Valley
landscape was much loved by the Dymock poets - Lascelles Abercrombie,
Rupert Brook, John Drinkwater, Wilfred Gibson, Edward Thomas and the
American poet Robert Frost. To them this area represented a rural idyll
in a changing world - today you can walk in the footsteps of these
poets along a two way-marked circular route known as Poets' Paths 1 and
2. Not far from High Beeches discover for yourself this landscape that
inspired artists.
Whatever
you seek - romance, relaxation and recuperation, or recreation which is
challenging or adventurous - you will not be disapponted. Whether its
canoeing, caving, golfing, falconry, ballooning, 4x4 driving, quad or
pony trekking, rock climbing, abseiling, angling, simply walking or on
a cruise along the Wye - there are activities and attractions spoiling
you for choice.
Visit the Tourist Information Centre when visiting High Beeches
High St, Coleford, Gloucestershire GL16 8HG
Tel: 01594 812388
for more detailed information please visit the Forest of Dean Tourist Board site at http://www.visitforestofdean.co.uk/
