We spent 4 super nights here at The Firs, an adult only CL in The Royal Forest of Dean. We were warmly welcomed by Mary and Penny on arrival and offered coffee as we set up. As novice caravaners this was a great place to stay and have a âshake downâ trip in our recently purchased caravan. The 4 hard standing pitches were taken when we booked so we had the one grass pitch with EHU which was perfect for us, reasonably level, just needing the jockey wheel to level up and with more space and privacy. It was also closer to the newly built toilet, separate sluice room and recycling facility, all of which we used. A shower is also planned in future. Nothing was too much trouble for our hosts who also maintain a well-stocked information centre in the summer house including maps and brochures. Penny also brought us with a jar of homemade yellow raspberry jam, delicious on our toast at breakfast. The CL is sited next to a Community Conservation Zone, a joint venture with Forestry England. We saw Green Woodpeckers and Buzzards overhead and at night, heard owls screeching. Occasionally Wild Boar come onto the CL, which are quite harmless and regularly seen in The Forest. Clearwell Caves, Puzzlewood Forest, Secret Forest and Perrygrove Steam Railway are all within (a good) walking distance. Coleford is a couple of miles away and you can get everything there youâd ever need for a great holiday. Thereâs also two caravan dealers nearby if you need any spares, advice or service etc. Several local restaurants and takeaways offer deliveries to the CL and a local pub is open. The Firs is in the heart of the Forest with superb walks readily accessible. We walked along the Offaâs Dyke Path from a free car park (The Park Nature Reserve) on the A4228 to the Devilâs Pulpit overlooking the impressive ruins of Tintern Abbey and visited the NT property and woodland walk at Kymin at Monmouth. Nagshead Hill RSPB Reserve, also free parking, just a couple of miles away near the hamlet of Parkend is well worth a visit where we saw Fallow Deer, Wild Boar and lots of birds. Our drive to Cannop Pools gave us an interesting insight into the industrial heritage of the area enclosed now by dense forest. So whatâs not to like about The Firs which is a gem in the heart of this fascinating area of outstanding natural beauty.
