About
If you’re a history buff, you will love the two-hour Royal Historic Tree Trail with Cream Tea based at The Speech House in Coleford, in the glorious Forest of Dean.
The tour, for 10-20 people, tells the story of The Speech House, now a hotel, which was built in 1669 by King Charles II, originally as a hunting lodge, and the Verderers Court, which still runs to this day.
Verderers are officials in Britain who deal with common land in certain former royal hunting areas which are the property of the Crown, including the Forest of Dean where the office has existed since at least 1218. You’ll learn all about their powers to protect the trees and environment and manage wildlife, such as deer and wild boar, and how they are elected. You’ll also hear about their special chairs and the intriguing story of when they were stolen…
Then guests will be shown some special four-poster beds, historic oil paintings and photographs and, on a short walk, visit the splendid oak trees planted by members of the British Royal Family and see the commemorative stone for Prince Albert, beloved husband of Queen Victoria, as well as the listed monument marking the centre of the Royal Forest of Dean and the Cyril Hart Arboretum.
A leaflet on the history of the Speech House building and Verderers Court is available free to guests.
Booking
Price: £45 per person.
Duration: 2 hours. Shorter experiences are available, please contact for details.
Capacity: Minimum of 10 people and maximum of 20 people.
Opening:
Booking: Subject to advanced booking and availability. To book please contact the trade contact below.
Facilities
Language: English and French. English - Guests will need a basic knowledge of English to fully appreciate the experience.
Parking: Car park accommodates 50-60 cars/minibuses and one coach.
Accessibility: Entrance to the building and ground floor level only is accessible to people with disabilities, but they can access the exterior Arboretum tour, monument and royal trees at the front. Moderate walking is required on flat terrain but with some uneven woodland areas.
Special requirements: Guests will need outdoor clothing in the event of inclement weather and sensible walking shoes/trainers. This is an all-weather experience within reason.
Trade contact
Sharon Winman
Sharon@thespeechhouse.co.uk
01594 822607
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