In the heart of Gloucestershire, nestled between the Forest of Dean and the Wye Valley, resides the picturesque Tudor Farmhouse Hotel. This rural retreat is a former working farm dating back to the 13th century, lovingly converted into twenty bedrooms and suites with well-thought-out décor comprising exposed stonework and ancient beams.

The Food & Drinks

If you’re in search of inventive, seasonal dishes sourced from local suppliers, Tudor Farmhouse hits the spot. With 2 AA Rosette awards for culinary excellence since 2004, and a solid selection of meat and vegetarian dishes paired with excellent wine selections, it’s safe to say you’re on to a winner.

It’s clear that new Head Chef Gavin Roberts is passionate about British produce from the menu and locally sourced ingredients (within 20 miles of the farmhouse). Having worked in several Michelin-starred establishments, he’ll undoubtedly be making his own mark at The Tudor Farmhouse. The service throughout the whole experience was warm, welcoming, and homely.

Standout Dishes

• Rosary Goats Cheese Mousse, Beetroot Relish, Poached Beetroot, Rye Cracker – Phenomenal flavours and textures
• Salted Roast Cod, White Beans, Broad Beans, Poached Potatoes, Fish Cream, Nectarine – Perfectly cooked cod, a comforting cream with a sweet finish
• Sticky Toffee Pudding, Brandy Snap, Malt Ice Cream – The best dish of all, mouthwatering, gooey and not too heavy… it’s one of those desserts you shouldn’t have to live without tasting.

The Activities

The lush green surroundings of the hotel allow for a perfect stay of nature-based activities from day to dusk, including woodland walks that lead to Tintern Abbey and the Devil’s Pulpit (a viewpoint and beauty spot). Beginning at the 12th-century monastery, cross over the footbridge and enjoy a 3-mile walk to the Devil’s Pulpit viewpoint, which overlooks the village of Tintern and is signposted along the Offa’s Dyke Trail, before retracing your steps back down to Tintern. Symonds Yat Rock is an excellent viewpoint from an ancient fort overlooking the River Wye, where peregrine falcons nest in the limestone cliffs.

The hotel is the perfect location to let nature boost your mind and body with river swimming, picnics, forest bathing, wildflower walks, paddle boarding, and e-biking safaris!

The Cost

Book a Hatchling double room from £247 per night, which includes dinner and breakfast for two. We stayed in the Roost all the way at the top, and it was one of the most stunning rooms I’ve stayed in. Every single thing has been thought out, from the beautiful furnishings all the way through to the heated bathroom flooring.

There are excellent options available depending on the type of stay you’re after… here are a few that we love:

The Summer Escape

This 3-night break brings together a choice of outdoor summer activities such as wild swimming and stand-up paddle boarding, as well as the chance to go on an expert-led wildlife safari, with a boutique hotel stay with gourmet meals using local produce and bedrooms featuring roll-top baths, comfy beds with duck feather pillows, and 300-count linen sheets.

Price: Available from 1st June, this three-night ‘Summer Escape’ package starts at £325 per person, based on two people sharing a ‘Hatchling’ room on a B&B basis and includes a picnic lunch, a three-course dinner, as well as a choice of a SUP lesson or evening wildlife safari. Both activities can be arranged for a £60 supplement per person. Dog-friendly rooms with direct outside access are available.

Summer Stargazing Safaris – 20 August

There are two stargazing safaris scheduled for early and late summer when star storyteller Jim Bell will offer a unique outdoor group experience, exploring the universe through the beautifully dark night skies of the Forest of Dean from the hilltop vantage point of the hotel’s grounds.

Of course, with the magic of the night sky comes the risk of cloud cover spoiling the view – happily, Jim also brings with him his own portable planetarium, so guests will see the stars whatever the weather! The experience lasts approximately two hours and starts at 9 pm on 20 August. The Summer Stargazing Safaris cost £40 per person and £20 for children under 12.

Tudor Farmhouse is a place to reflect, recharge, and relax with smiling, skilled staff and chic, detail-oriented design.

A: High St, Clearwell, Coleford GL16 8JS
T: 01594 833046
W: Tudor Farmhouse

Written by Kaya Cheshire for Luxuria Lifestyle London and International