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Despite having lived in neighbouring Wiltshire for many years, apart from the Forest of Dean which I've been to a couple of times, I don't really feel I've got to know Gloucestershire as well as I would like to.

Clearwell Caves

Location

Forestofdean Map

The mine at Clearwell Caves has many claims to fame:

It is the last iron ore mine still being worked in the Forest of Dean. It is one of the few places still producing ochre, a traditional artists pigment. It may well date back over 4,500 years making it one of Britain's oldest mine workings.

It is, however the nine large show caverns that draw the visitors today.

External Links and References

  • External Links

    • Clearwell Caves
      Official site with full details of opening times, admission prices, etc.
      https://clearwellcaves.com/

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Great Western Railway Museum, Coleford

Location

Forestofdean Map

The Great Western Railway Museum in Coleford is based in the former GWR goods shed, built in 1883, which is the last surviving part of Coleford Station, on the line which once connected the town with Monmouth.

The museum is, at the time of writing (2015) open Fridays, Saturdays and Bank Holidays. Unfortunately, I was there on a Wednesday.

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Location

Forestofdean Map

Driving up through the forest it is difficult to imagine how the former the site of the New Fancy coal mine could now be best known as for its view point. There are just too many trees around.

However, once you've climbed to the top of the old spoil heap, all becomes clear (both literally and metaphorically) as there is a 360° view over the tops of the surrounding woods.

External Links and References

  • External Links

    • New Fancy
      Forestry England handbook entry
      https://www.forestryengland.uk/new-fancy

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Westonbirt Arboretum

Location

Gloucestershire Map

There 18,000 trees from all over the world at the National Arboretum - Westonbirt just outside Tetbury. They were planted from 1829 to the present day, and cover 240 hectares (600 acres) of countryside.

However, the crowning glory is the collection of maples. Go in the Autumn when they are at their best.

Although it is over twenty years since I was last there, I still have fond memories of the bacon rolls. I wonder if they are still as good?

Check the Forestry Commission's website for opening times etc.

External Links and References

  • External Links

    • Westonbirt Arboretum
      Forestry Commission Site
      https://www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt-the-national-arboretum

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