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Royal Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, England
Clearwell Caves
Royal Forest of Dean
The Royal Forest of Dean is one of England’s few remaining ancient forests. Once a hunting ground for Norman Kings the area is now enjoyed for its natural beauty.
Over 27,000 acres of ancient woodland remain, stretching from the Wye Valley on the border of South Wales, known for its outstanding natural beauty, to the River Severn on the Eastern border. This is internationally known for the “Severn Bore”, a natural phenomenon. To the north of the Royal Forest of Dean is the Vale of Leadon, with its black and white timbered buildings, market gardens, vineyards and rolling farmland hills.
The beauty of the landscape has inspired many famous authors. J. K. Rowling, author of the very successful “Harry Potter” books lived in the Forest of Dean District for part of her childhood. It may be the memories of the Forest’s magical beauty J. K. Rowling is recalling in some of Harry’s adventures, like when Harry has to venture into the dense forest.
Dymock and the Vale of Leadon is well known in literary circles, made famous by a group of young poets who had a close association with the area before the First World War. The six poets – Lascelles Abercrombie, Rupert Brook, John Drinkwater, Wilfred Gibson, Edward Thomas and the American poet Robert Frost are today known as the “Dymock Poets”.
The history of the area is just as exciting to discover as the landscape it has helped shape. Formerly a royal hunting ground, and later an important industrial centre with the mining of iron ore and coal. Traces of the area’s industrial past are still evident and there is a wealth of historic attractions where you can discover more about the history and culture of the area. Traditional crafts such as iron sculptures still survive, with craft outlets in the District providing the perfect place to shop for that special gift.
The Royal Forest of Dean is ideal for a long holiday or short break. A wide range of accommodation is available from hotels, guest houses, bed and breakfasts to self catering cottages and caravan and camping.
More information?
Contact:
Tourist Information Centre
High Street
Coleford
Glos
GL16 8HG
Web: www.visitforestofdean.co.uk
Email: tourism@fdean.gov.uk
Tel: +44 (0)1594 812388
Fax: +44 (0)1594 812390
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