The Forest of Dean is one of the favourite destinations for staycations and daylight trips. Dubbed the “Queen of Forests,” the forest is an ancient and fascinating area, which lies between Wye Valley, the Vale of Leadon and the Severn Vale. It is home to ancient and modern woodlands as well as rare and beautiful wildlife, more so to famous landmarks. Forest of Dean’s famous and historical landmarks are just a few strolls away from Danby Lodge. Let’s take a virtual tour of these brilliant family attractions and amazing places.
Woodchester Mansion
Would you believe that this unique and grand Grade 1 listed Victorian Gothic house is an unfinished masterpiece? Tucked away in the beautiful Cotswold valley, the construction began around 1857 but was halted in mid-1860s. This gothic house lacks floors and ceilings and walls were not plastered and windows were unglazed. Despite its construction “secrets” being exposed (something you will not see in other country houses), its stone carvings, which were inspired by the flora and fauna in the Cotswold valley, are remarkably outstanding.
Great Witcombe Roman Villa
The ruins of the large and luxurious villa, which is located in the serene place near the Cotswold Way, will take you back to Roman times. The villa was built about AD 250 and stood the test of time until the 5th century. What remains of the once large country estate include the bathhouse complex, the shrine of a water spirit and mosaic pavements.
Clifton Observatory
Clifton Observatory first opened in 1766, is a well-known landmark and an important element of the Bristol landscape. The observatory has had a long, winding and rich history through the years but nothing has ever changed with the breathtaking and incomparable views of Bristol, Avon Gorge, and the Clifton Suspension Bridge.
It is now home to the 360 café and the atmospheric and mythical Giant’s Cave. What’s more? It can also host your special occasions.
Worcester Cathedral
For fourteen centuries, Worcester Cathedral has served as a center of Christian worship and devotion. The current structure, consecrated to Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary, was built in 1084.
Worcester Cathedral, which stands magnificently over the River Severn, is a wonderful sight to behold. It is also dubbed as the most interesting of all England’s cathedrals, especially architecturally.
Glastonbury Abbey
The fusion of myth and history is what Glastonbury Abbey ruins are all about. This hidden gem in Glastonbury, Somerset was once a thriving monastery and is one of the most important historic abbeys in the UK. It has been associated with Joseph of Arimathea, and as the burial place of King Arthur.
The stunning ruins are a popular tourist attraction with their ornate stonework and towering architecture while inside displays provide a glimpse into the lives of the monks who once lived there.
Wilton Windmill
An iconic landmark in the pretty Vale of Pewsey, the five-storey Wilton Windmill was constructed in 1821 and was in use until the 1930s. It was restored to working order by the Wiltshire Historic Buildings Trust in 1972 and has been classified as a Grade II Listed Building of Special Architectural and Historic Interest. It is the only working windmill in Wessex and still produces wholemeal, stone-ground flour since 1976.
During the spring and summer, the windmill is open for tours on a regular basis. Guests can enjoy the picnic area, which has amazing views of the Downs, as well as the building, which can be seen from the outside. Dogs are also welcome!
Forest vacations are becoming a more popular alternative to the traditional British staycation. Nothing beats getting back to nature with a getaway surrounded by woodlands, whether it’s a romantic couple of days away with your partner or a family activities holiday in the centre of the woods. Plan a forest vacation today in the Forest of Dean. Rest assured you will never get lost with its famous landmarks.
Sources:
https://forestofdeanlodges.co.uk/forest-of-dean-attractions/
https://www.visitdeanwye.co.uk/explore/history-and-heritage
