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.
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/
