The Zion Chapel

When you stay at Zion Chapel you are immersed in the heritage of the Forest of Dean. Built from local stone in the 1800s it is today an eclectic mix of the old and new. You can see the old stonework which would have been the aisle between the pews, and the initials of those who contributed to the building of the old school house are still on show in the brickwork.

Set across an open plan split level with a mezzanine seating area, Zion Chapel is made for couples looking to get away from it all and groups of family or friends who want to spend quality time together. There are so many eye-catching and intriguing details here you are spoilt for choice of where to spend your time. A bright and spacious kitchen with a beamed ceiling is a communal space to serve meals at the dining table. Flit between here and the dining terrace outside where you will be captivated by the view. The sleeping area has a double bed and there is a choice of double or single futons which create three seating areas. Curl up to watch TV, sit beside the fire together or head up to the mezzanine to watch the scenery no matter what the weather brings.

Stepping out of the old church doors you find yourselves on a footpath which heads into the forest behind you, or follow it into the village to explore. These paths wrap around the cottage and you can follow them from the side gates as well. Beside the chapel is an orchard where there may be sheep grazing, a charming country view to start the day. The terrace leads behind the house to a quiet corner with a bistro set where you can start or end your day with a moment to yourself.

Ground floor

Open plan living, kitchen, dining, sleeping area

Kitchen
Sitting beneath the exposed beams above, the kitchen has more than enough space to unpack your essentials. Light and bright there is a central island with a sink, perfect for prepping vegetables for dinner, an oven and hob, microwave and a feature AGA which is available during the winter months to add some extra warmth to the room. It’s a great space to cook in with everything you could ever need close at hand. An old arched and two circular windows

Dining Area
Seating six, the dining table sits alongside the kitchen. Set the table and gather your guests for elegant evening meals and quick hearty breakfasts before going for a long walk. The table is also perfect for board games on rainy days.

Sitting Area
The main seating area flanks the woodburning stove making it a cosy spot. At the end of the day you can spend some time away from the TV and appreciate each other’s company. The settees here can be converted to beds for two guests and as this area is split level you have some privacy from those in the sleeping area beyond.

Sleeping Area
Down a couple of steps is the sleeping area. A comfortable double bed is in the middle with bedside tables and a choice of armchairs. Storage space can be found in a chest of drawers and there is a hanging rail to one side. Overhead spotlights have been arranged to mimic the stars and a bible quote “I am the true vine” is a nod to the history of this impressive building.

TV Area
Perfect for couples to snuggle up, there is a two-seater sofa by the TV. Get some snacks and bundle up for a film night.

Shower Room
The spacious shower room is tiled in whites and greys with a wonderfully patterned floor. There is a rainfall shower, WC and basin. Refresh here after a long walk or get ready to head out for dinner at one of the nearby country pubs.

First Floor Mezzanine

Sitting Area
Up an open tread spiral staircase is a mezzanine with two single futons. It’s a lovely spot to enjoy the views, starting the day here with a cup of coffee spotting the birdlife that flits by the arched windows. You can gaze across the apple trees and resident sheep in the orchard to the village of Soudley and hills beyond.

Outside

Dining on the terrace at Zion Chapel you can enjoy the far reaching views across Soudley and the surrounding countryside. Set the table for a feast and soak in this beautiful location. Behind the chapel is a lovely secluded area with a bistro set where you can start your day flicking through a magazine with a cup of coffee. You will spot footpaths weaving their way around the chapel so pull on your walking boots and head straight out to get lost amongst the forest pathways.