Birthplace of British tourism

The Wye Valley is widely regarded as the birthplace of British tourism and as you visit the towns and villages that are dotted around the meandering River Wye, you can see why many saw it as a peaceful getaway during our industrialised past. If you’re looking for classic picture book English towns with higgledy-piggledy streets and chocolate box houses and cottages then the Wye Valley has them in abundance. We specialise in holiday lettings in this area because we love the natural beauty of the River Wye and we think you will too!

The Forest of Dean also has a long heritage as a working area, first as a Royal Forest with foresters responsible for maintenance and tenant farmers working the fields. The timber in the forest was one of the most valuable resources in the UK throughout much of the island’s history, being used to smelt iron, building mines as well as material for building ships and used for the growing towns and villages. Eventually, as the forest was in danger of being eradicated due to demand during the industrial age, a more balanced approach was adopted which balanced a need for timber with finding more leisurely uses and thus it became a destination for those who wanted to appreciate the magnificence of this beautiful forest.

These days many attractions have sprung up and offer great days out with opportunities for relaxing, challenging yourself or learning about the rich part the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean have played in the history of the UK.