Speech House Hotel

Standing proud in the heart of the Forest of Dean, this 17th-century former hunting lodge turned hotel holds a proper bit of history. Built as a courthouse for the ancient Verderers' Court - which still meets here today to govern forest rights - the Speech House has been welcoming visitors for centuries, though now it's more about cream teas than criminal trials.

History buffs will love the stories this place tells. The building itself is lovely, all weathered stone and mullioned windows, and you can still see the old courtroom where forest disputes were settled. The hotel's public areas are open to visitors who fancy a look around, and the restaurant serves decent food if you're passing through.

Families staying at nearby sites like Bracelands Campsite or Whitemead Forest Park will find it makes a good pit stop during forest walks. The hotel sits right on several cycling and walking routes, and there's parking if you're driving the forest roads. It's not somewhere you'd make a special journey to see - more of a pleasant discovery when you're already exploring the Dean. Allow half an hour for a quick look and perhaps a coffee, longer if you're settling in for lunch.