Explore the Market Towns of the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley
Ross-on-Wye – Independent Shopping with Riverside Charm
Ross-on-Wye has long been one of the most popular towns in Herefordshire, and it's easy to see why.
Its attractive streets are lined with independent boutiques, bookshops, gift shops and galleries, making it the perfect place for anyone who enjoys browsing rather than rushing. You'll also discover plenty of cafés serving homemade cakes, cosy pubs and restaurants showcasing local produce.
Take a gentle stroll down to the River Wye and you'll find peaceful riverside walks, rowing boats during the warmer months and beautiful views that seem designed for lingering over an ice cream or coffee.
The town has a relaxed atmosphere that encourages you to slow down—a welcome change from busy city shopping centres.
For families, couples and groups alike, Ross-on-Wye offers that rare combination of great shopping and stunning scenery.
Stay at: Symonds Yat - Holly Tree House or Wye Rapids House or Brookside
Monmouth – History Meets the River
Just across the Welsh border lies Monmouth, one of the area's most elegant market towns.
The River Wye and River Monnow meet here, creating beautiful waterside walks that wind past bridges, parks and historic buildings. The town itself has a wonderful mix of independent retailers, traditional markets and excellent places to eat.
History lovers will enjoy spotting the famous Monnow Bridge, one of the few remaining fortified medieval river bridges in Britain, while shoppers can browse everything from artisan food shops to fashion boutiques.
It's the sort of place where one quick coffee stop somehow turns into an afternoon exploring hidden streets and riverside paths.
Stay at: Monnow Valley Studio or The Manor on the Monnow
Coleford – The Forest's Historic Heart
Coleford sits at the very centre of the Forest of Dean and has always been closely connected with its fascinating industrial past.
Today it's a welcoming market town packed with independent businesses, cafés and local shops, making it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding woodland.
The nearby attractions are among the Forest's most famous, including Puzzlewood, Clearwell Caves and countless walking and cycling trails.
Spend the morning exploring the town before heading into the ancient woodland that inspired writers, filmmakers and generations of visitors.
Coleford perfectly captures the unique character of the Forest of Dean—friendly, relaxed and full of hidden surprises.
Stay at: Forest House
Newent – Cobblestones and Character
Smaller than some of its neighbours, Newent rewards visitors with bags of charm.
Its picturesque streets feature beautiful half-timbered buildings, independent shops and a traditional market town atmosphere that feels refreshingly unspoilt.
Take time to wander without a plan and you'll soon discover antique shops, local bakeries and cafés where the welcome is as warm as the coffee.
Newent is also famous for its surrounding countryside, vineyards and nearby lakes, making it an ideal stop for anyone exploring the quieter corners of the region.
Sometimes the smallest places leave the biggest impression.
Stay at : Bromsash House
Lydney – Riverside Walks and Relaxed Days
Situated close to the River Severn, Lydney offers a completely different flavour of the Forest.
Visitors enjoy gentle riverside walks, attractive green spaces and easy access to nature, while the town itself provides a good selection of independent retailers and cafés.
It's also home to the historic Dean Forest Railway, a favourite with families looking to experience a nostalgic steam train journey through beautiful woodland scenery.
Whether you're watching boats, enjoying fish and chips beside the water or simply taking in the fresh air, Lydney encourages visitors to take life at a slower pace.
Stay at: Pencraig Court
Cinderford – Community at the Heart of the Forest
Cinderford is often described as the beating heart of the Forest of Dean.
Built on the area's rich industrial and mining heritage, the town has a proud history and an incredibly strong sense of community that visitors quickly notice.
It's a place where independent businesses thrive, local cafés know their regulars and visitors receive a genuinely warm welcome.
The surrounding woodland is never far away, making Cinderford an excellent starting point for walks, cycling adventures and exploring the Forest's hidden beauty.
If you want to experience the authentic spirit of the Forest of Dean rather than simply visit it, Cinderford is well worth adding to your itinerary.
Discover More Than Just Beautiful Countryside
One of the greatest pleasures of staying in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is that no two days need look the same.
One morning might be spent paddleboarding on the River Wye. The next could involve browsing independent bookshops, discovering local history, enjoying lunch in a riverside café or picking up handmade gifts to take home.
These market towns aren't tourist attractions created for visitors—they're thriving communities with their own traditions, stories and personalities.
They provide the perfect excuse to slow down, wander without a timetable and enjoy the sort of simple experiences that often become the highlights of a holiday.
Stay Together, Explore Together
When you're staying in one of Big House Holiday Lets' large holiday homes, exploring these wonderful towns becomes even more enjoyable.
Whether you're travelling with extended family, celebrating with friends or planning a multi-generational getaway, everyone can choose the pace that suits them. Some may spend hours browsing independent shops, while others settle into a riverside café or enjoy a leisurely walk before meeting up later to share stories over dinner back at your holiday house.
After all, the best holidays aren't about ticking attractions off a list. They're about discovering places that make you smile, finding unexpected favourites and creating memories together.
The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley's market towns do exactly that.
So next time you visit, don't just pass through—take the time to explore. You might just find your new favourite place.
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Bowley Hall
Prices from £3,250.00
Bowley Hall is a 9 bedroom Manor House and a 3 bedroom Coach House sleeping up to 31 guests in stunning Herefordshire countryside. With a bar, games room, cinema room, extensive grounds, outdoor pizza oven and Hot Tub (hire charge) its the perfect venue to relax in style and comfort. 3 lounges, huge baronial dining room, modern kitchen, breakfast room - its has everything you need. Licensed for weddings up to 170 with Marquee.
- 9 Bedrooms in Hall + 3 in Coachhouse
- Sleeps from 18 to 31 plus 4 infants please ask for a quote
- Hot Tub included
- Games room, table tennis, pool,
- Bar/Party Room/Cinema Room
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The Manor on the Monnow
Prices from £2,850.00
Majestic Manor House sleeping 24 in 11 bedrooms, huge lounge and dining room. Big kitchen and separate breakfast room. Games room and covered Hot Tub in 2 acre safe and private grounds. On the banks of the River Monnow, fishing from garden and wild swimming a very short walk. 10 minute flat stroll into town, the Manor is perfect for town and country group self catering in the picturesque border town of Monmouth. Pet friendly.
- Games Room and Hot Tub
- Fishing from riverbank
- Wild swimming 100 yards
- Galleried Hall with woodburner
- 11 Bedrooms, 9 Bathrooms
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Holly Tree House
Prices from £2,450.00
Charming villa above Symonds Yat, sleeping 22 in 9 bedrooms overlooking River Wye. Two lounges, a large dining room and patio plus covered, outdoor Hot Tub and Games Room. Short walk to 3 pubs (with excellent food), river ferry, and flat riverside circular walk - super pet-friendly. Loads of activities inc canoes and paddle boards. verty safe and secure, no traffic. Ideal multi generation holiday cottage. Holly Tree House provides accommodation in an idyllic retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
- 9 bedrooms sleeping 12 - 22
- 8 Bath and Shower/Loos
- Covered Hot Tub
- Pet Friendly
- 3 Pub/Restaurants walkable
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The Anchor
Prices from £2,450.00
Set in the heart of Lydbrook in the Forest of Dean and previously know as The Anchor Inn, this cosy village pub, which dates back to the 15th century, is now a charmingly converted holiday cottage sleeping 22 in 7/8 ensuite bedrooms. Lovely Games Room and covered Hot Tub. Enclosed rear garden, pet friendly. Walk to village pubs, shop and chippie! Easy access to riverside. With Superfast Broadband and full Sky Film and Sports Pack it's ideal for work and leisure.
- 7/8 ensuite bedrooms sleep 22
- G/F room, sofa bed & bathroom
- Dogs and other pets welcome
- Covered Hot Tub
- Dine 20 round one table
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River Wye Lodge
Prices from £2,850.00
Converted Coaching Inn on the banks of the River Wye, with park and canoe launch - short walk to village shop, pub, Indian takeaway and fish and chip shop. Sleeps 26 in 12 bedrooms, 10 having glorious views of the River Wye. Accessibility ramp to the front door and the ground floor houses a wheelchair friendly twin room with an en-suite wet room. Huge dining room and lounge, 2 connected kitchens, playground outside. Games Room. Pet friendly.
- 12 Bedrooms sleeping 26
- Covered Hot Tub
- Games Room
- Dine 26 round one table
- Twin disabled bedroom wet room en suite
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Wye Rapids House
Prices from £2,850.00
13 bedroom (11 ensuite) converted hotel overlooking the River Wye rapids at Symonds Yat. Large dining room , bar, lounge, patio, riverside garden plus outdoor hot tub (that can be hired) and games room. Plenty of room to relax and enjoy the sights and sound of nature all around you. An ideal pet-friendly cottage for large group holidays. With flat walks and 3 nearby pubs and restaurants, Wye Rapids provides an idyllic retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life for up to 30 guests (26 adults max plus 4 children)
- 11 ensuite Bedrooms plus family room and shared bathroom sleeps 26 adults plus 4 children
- Hot tub hire available
- All dine together
- Fully commercial kitchen
- Offroad parking for 16 cars
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Monnow Valley Studio
Prices from £2,850.00
Sleeps 24 in 11 bedrooms , world famous recording studio on banks of the River Monnow, full of memorabilia with Party Room, Games Room, Cinema Room, stunning dining room, huge modern kitchen, hot tub (hire charge) . Pets are not allowed. peaceful, quiet , safe with no traffic, fishing and swimming from the garden. Licensed for Weddings - 50 max.
- Outdoor Hot Tub for hire
- Huge soundproof Party Room
- Games and Cinema Room
- 11 bedrooms sleeps 24
- Licensed for weddings up to 50
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Brookside
Prices from £2,450.00
Grand Georgian Manor — A Luxurious Countryside Escape for up to 24 Guests. Experience the charm and elegance of this stunning Georgian manor house, featuring eight large bedrooms and five bathrooms. Perfect for large groups, family gatherings, or special celebrations, the property offers a grand dining area where everyone can dine together, a large lounge for relaxing evenings, a fun-filled games room, and an inviting outdoor swimming pool. Combining classic style with modern comfort, this exceptional home provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable countryside getaway.
- Heated outdoor swimming pool
- Large Games Room / Party Room
- Hot Tub can be hired
- Ground floor bedroom for elderly or infirm
- Village location with local shop, cafe & pub
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Forest House
Prices from £2,850.00
This 11 ensuite bedroom converted 4* Hotel sleeps up to 25 in the centre of Coleford, the heart of the Forest of Dean - Hot Tub, 2 Lounges, Games Room with pool table, Large dining room, fantastic kitchen. Off road walks and cycling from door. Pet friendly. Short walk to shops, pubs, restaurants. A perfect location for sampling the huge array of activities and attractions in the Forest of Dean.
- 11 Ensuite bedrooms sleeping 25
- Covered Hot Tub
- Games Room with Pool Table
- All Dine Together
- Pet Friendly for 2 dogs
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Fairlea Grange
Prices from £2,450.00
This striking gothic townhouse in the heart of Abergavenny is full of character and inspired Alfred Hitchcock's classic movie The Lady Vanishes. It was the childhood home of Ethel Lina White who wrote the original novel. If you want your stay to evoke a dramatic atmosphere this is the holiday home for you! 10 bedrooms, sleeping up to 24 people with 2 lounges , 2 kitchens , games Room, Hot Tub, enclosed garden in walking distance of town centre and Station. Pet friendly.
- 10 bedrooms, 6 ensuites plus 2 bathrooms
- Pets Welcome
- Games Room
- Covered Hot Tub
- Near Brecon Beacons
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High Cloud Farm and Barn
Prices from £2,450.00
The secluded hilltop retreat of explorer, adventurer, and author Christina Dodwell, High Cloud Farm, a perfect location for 3 generation celebrations, with maps, books, pictures and artefacts in evidence everywhere. This remote rural cottage on the Wales borders offers total privacy as a large party house or holiday retreat. Hot tub and heated Swimming Pool (May till October). farmhouse sleeps 12 and Barn sleeps 12. Everyone can dine together in the Barn. 3 Kitchens, Games Room, pet friendly.
- Dining table seats 24
- 10 bedrooms sleeps 24
- Large games room
- Heated outdoor swimming pool
- Covered hot tub
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Pencraig Court
Prices from £2,850.00
Classic country house sleeping 36 in 11 bedrooms midway between Monmouth and Ross on Wye overlooking the river. Pet friendly, stunning rooms, large grounds, games room. On site 3 bed cottage sleeping a further 8 available. Large grounds and gardens and a drive with an extensive parking area, totalling 3.6 Acres. Hot tub hire available.
- 11 Ensuite Bedrooms sleeping 36
- Attached 3 Bed cottage sleeping 8
- Games room with pool and table football
- Hot tub Hire available
- Pet Friendly
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Bromsash House
Prices from £2,950.00
Bromsash House is a grand Manor house boasting six acres of land. 5 bedrooms in the main house sleep 12 adults . There is a Lodge with 3 double bedrooms sleeping a further 6 and Games Room.. The gardens are huge and boast a huge array of unusual trees, fruit trees, rose bushes, and magnolias, creating perfect areas in which to play and explore. Patio with lovely furniture and Hot Tub. Bromsash House sleeps 18 in total.
- 1 Hot Tub
- 2 Pets Welcome
- Max sleepers 18
- Linen Provided
- Sky TV
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Symonds Yat Lodge
Prices from £4,250.00
A comfortable 25 bedroom (all ensuite) converted guest accommodation situated on the banks for the River Wye. Huge dining room, lounge,bar, games / party room and mature gardend. With flat walks from the door Symonds Yat Lodge is the perfect place for celebrations and large group holidays. Pet friendly, parking. Sleeps 50 guests. Prices are based on 30 guests in 15 bedrooms with 10 extra bedrooms available at an additional charge.
- 25 ensuite Bedrooms
- All dine together in huge dining room
- Licensed for Weddings - for up to 100 guests
- Pet friendly
- Country pub within 5 minute walk
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Pencraig Cottage
Pencraig Cottage is a pretty 3 bedroom cottage sleeping 8 midway between Ross on Wye and Monmouth
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Hope Mansell Hall
Prices from £4,250.00
Hope Mansell Hall is an 18 ensuite bedroom Georgian estate in 11 acres of winding gardens and tranquil woodland outside Ross-on-Wye. Perfectly equipped for family and corporate events, intimate celebrations and weddings. Sleeps up to 36 guests plus 4 children on Z beds. With games room for the children, huge dining room, gorgeous kitchen , gardens, the perfect getaway.
- 18 Ensuite Bedrooms sleep 36 plus 4 children on Z beds
- Games Room, pool, table tennis, table football for children
- Huge Dining Room seats 40
- Professional level kitchen
- Bar, perfect for socialising
