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Historical Sites and Ruins in the Forest of Dean, Wye Valley and Beyond

Posted: Tue, 23rd Jul 2024

The Forest of Dean hides a gold mine of historic treasures amongst its unparalleled landscapes. With an active history and being home to more castles per square mile than anywhere else in the UK you are presented with a rich vein of heritage.

Once a Royal Hunting Forest reserved for use by the Tudor kings and having seen many battles, you will discover hidden ruins and important historical sites as you explore. From grander castles to smaller churches made altogether more beautiful by the return of nature.

Come with us on a journey around the Forest of Dean discovering King Arthur’s cave, the ruins of gothic Tintern Abbey and the three castles of Gwent.

King Arthur’s Cave:

With a dubious past, King Arthur’s Cave is an interesting historical site for both real and possibly fictional reason. The name suggests connections to the knights of the round table and one legend tells that King Arthur used this cave to hide from Saxon invaders. As you enter the cave, imagine a round table at its centre, Merlin casting spells and the King overseeing his knights. If you are interested in the story of King Arthur, a tomb which is said to be where Arthur slew a giant can be found outside Hay-on-Wye. The more factual history of King Arthur’s Cave is no less intriguing. Hyena bones were discovered here during an excavation in the 1800s. Woolly rhinoceros, cave bears and mammoths were also found, making this cave a site of great interest.

Offa’s Dyke:

Running along the border between England and Wales, Offa’s Dyke is a historic earthen bank built by the order of King Offa. Created in the 700s, it was meant to keep the Welsh out of England and took thousands of men to complete. Today, you can follow either a full 149-mile route of the border, or the 82-mile section which Offa’s Dyke covers. In places the bank still reaches a height of 12 feet!

Mining History:

The Forest of Dean is known for its history of mining and there are many opportunities to see what remains. Visit Hopewell Colliery and the Clearwell Caves to get up close to the mines and view the underground world of the forest. Above ground, Darkhill and Whitecliff Ironworks still show the history of the iron industry.

Tintern Abbey:

Left in ruins after the dissolution of the monastery, Tintern Abbey is a haunting ruin. Soaring arches and hollow windows create picturesque grandeur. Today the roofless remains draw visitors in their thousands to this ruined site on the edge of the River Wye. Devil’s pulpit, overlooking the abbey, is said to be where the Devil sat to tempt the monks away from their faith. It is worth also visiting St Mary’s Church, a small ruin just up the hill behind Tintern Abbey. Now overgrown as nature takes back the building, it is a charmingly romantic spot.

Three Castles of Gwent:

Known as the Three Castles of Gwent, Grosmont, White Castle and Skenfrith, were built by the Normans to protect the route from Wales to Hereford. A walking trail links the three castles and is a wonderful way to explore the area. White Castle is the best preserved and is a dominating fortification. Grosmont Castle was once fitted with apartments for noblemen but was later ruined in the wars led by Owain Glyndwr. The last castle in the line of defence is Skenfrith whose walls surround a central keep. Each ruin is a wonderful spot to explore with walking opportunities and fabulous views.

Raglan Castle:

A victim of the English Civil War, Raglan castle was built more to impress than to act as a fortress. Its destruction took place over one of the longest sieges of the civil war. When it eventually fell it was torn to ruins. The castle was looted and left to stand, becoming the imposing structure you see today. The Great Tower of Raglan is a standout feature, surrounded by a moat you can climb to the top to gaze upon the fantastic view.

Chepstow Castle:

Stretching along the River Wye, Chepstow Castle has had many improvements made during its time. Overlooking the town, the castle has high rising towers and thick, defensive walls made to withstand cannon fire. Through the ages the height of the walls has been increased, the first twin towered gatehouse was built, and a large central tower has been added.

Goodrich Castle:

Much of Goodrich Castle was destroyed during the Civil War in 1646. It was bombarded by a cannon known as ‘Roaring Meg’. This attack has left behind incredible ruins, standing in the countryside above the River Wye. Climb the ruins to behold fantastic views, explore the archways and walk the remains of impressive hallways. Family events are held here throughout the year including half-term activities and displays of fighting knights.

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