Once you book with us you will be given access to a link giving you access to our take on the local area, things to do, places to visit and eat, and walking routes we have done.
But just to give you a flavour of what this hidden beautiful area has to offer…..
Walking
A wide range of walking routes from the doorstep as well as further afield, click for more about walks in the Forest of Dean area
- Water sports- bring your own SUP, Canoe or kayak and launch from the next village, Lydbrook for a small fee. Otherwise, there are plenty of places hire what you need. There are also wild swimming locations nearby.
- Cycling- The Old Shop is only 13-minute drive away from The Forest of Dean cycle centre. There are a range of cycling opportunities in the area including a range of downhill trails for the thrill seekers as well as more gentle cycle paths through the forest.
- History- If castles are your thing Goodrich Castle is very close by and being close to the Welsh border there are plenty of others to explore. Hereford and Gloucester cathedral are both within a 30-minute drive. There is a rich history to find out about in The Forest of Dean including free mining.
- Creative activities- Past guests have forged an axe head just over 30 minutes drive away. Several previous guests have enjoyed a hands-on cookery session at a local cookery school. If you’d love to give pottery a go there is a pottery only a short walk across a field from the Old Shop. There are a wide range of galleries and craft venues in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley for you to explore.
- Nature- Deer, wild boar, beavers, pine martins, Peregrine falcons and the list continues! Explore on your own or take an organised session with local experts. Enjoy the Forest of Dean at all times of year or the expansive views of the Wye Valley with seasonal delights of bluebells, wild garlic and wild daffodils.
- Foodie opportunities – there is a wealth of places to eat using local produce from fine dining to pubs and cafes. The local town Coleford has a traditional butcher, greengrocer and a delicatessen if you want to cook your own meals. We can give you our own recommendations as well as those places previous guests have enjoyed.
- Why not follow us on Instagram (the_old_shop_bicknor and whereangellstread)?