There’s something instantly likeable about Monmouth — maybe it’s the riverside setting, maybe the cobbled streets, or maybe just the relaxed, welcoming vibe that makes every visitor feel like a local.

Your 40th birthday isn’t just another excuse for cake — it’s a milestone. And if you’re going to celebrate, do it properly

If your idea of happiness involves great food, good company and gorgeous countryside, the Wye Valley is the place to be. It’s a region that takes pride in its produce — and loves a good meal.

Autumn in the Wye Valley is pure magic—golden trees, misty mornings, and that irresistible scent of wood smoke in the air. If summer was for busy adventures, autumn is for slowing down: walking through crunchy leaves, sharing cider by the fire, and spending long evenings with the people who matter most.

If you’re looking for the ultimate New Year’s celebration spot, Highcloud Farm & Barn near Monmouth is your last chance to book something truly spectacular. This is the kind of getaway that ticks every box – whether you want laughter-filled parties, peaceful country walks, or simply space for everyone to be together.

If you’ve ever returned from a holiday more tired than when you left, you’re not alone. Resorts and hotels often mean queues, noise, and a struggle to find your own corner of peace. That’s why the Wye Valley, Forest of Dean and Herefordshire are such refreshing alternatives. Here, holidays slow down. There are no crowded pools or loud lobbies — just rivers, forests and countryside that feel timeless.

For many families and groups of friends, Christmas Day itself can be a logistical challenge. Different households, travel difficulties, and packed calendars often mean that not everyone can be in the same place at the same time. That’s why more people are choosing to celebrate before the big day — creating their own traditions and enjoying each other’s company without the pressure of 25 December. This December, Symonds Yat Lodge offers the perfect setting for such gatherings. Nestled by the River Wye, surrounded by frosted woodland, the lodge provides space, comfort, and atmosphere for groups of up to 50 guests. With festive décor throughout, roaring fires, and room for everyone to relax, it’s an invitation to press pause on the season’s chaos and reconnect with the people who matter most. A Place Made for Gatherings

When December arrives, the Wye Valley becomes a picture-postcard setting: frosted woodland, the River Wye winding quietly through the landscape, and the soft glow of festive lights. It’s an inspiring backdrop for business — and Symonds Yat Lodge is the ideal venue for your corporate gathering this season.

Reuniting the generations isn’t always easy—but it’s always worth it. The Wye Valley offers the perfect mix of space, scenery, and things to do that make a multi-generational holiday feel more like a celebration.

If you’re planning a big group getaway, you’ll want activities that bring people together, spark laughter, and leave you with brilliant stories to share. Here are eight ideas to make your weekend unforgettable.