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The picturesque village of Clearwell is home to the Tudor Farmhouse Hotel, a lovely 13th century building, with spacious rooms and a two AA rosette restaurant. In its immediate vicinity is the beautiful Royal Forest of Dean and the Wye Valley, making this a destination for those who are exhilarated by such lush surroundings. Inside, everything is informal and relaxed although the service never misses a beat, and the laidback atmosphere is enhanced with ancient oak beams and the inglenook fireplaces.

The menu features locally sourced seasonal produce and for starters you could try the seared smoked salmon with fine beans, shallots and cucumber dressing followed by supreme of guinea fowl with bacon brandade, buttered cabbage, onion marmalade and cep veloute. The drinks list is extensive, offering wines by the bottle or glass, while delectable desserts such as warm chocolate fondant with pistachio nut ice cream seem to be the perfect way to bring the meal to an end.

Set in the estate of Lydbrook House is an old village malt house that was built in the early part of the 19th century. The building was carefully renovated into a Garden Café and Gallery that offers guests a beautiful dining experience on the banks of the River Wye.

The owners of the Garden Café use local produce wherever possible and many of the herbs and vegetables are grown in their own organic garden; the meat, fish, and dairy products are sourced in the South West.

Since the café opens at 11am, you could drop in for a mid-morning coffee or for the all day breakfast and watch the chefs in action in the open plan kitchen or relax in the outside garden. The menu offers freshly baked cakes, pastries, and juices throughout the day, while more substantial lunchtime creations such as pork schnitzel with potatoes and cornichon, and pan-fried duck breast and rocket salad rarely fail to please.

Visitors to the Forest of Dean could stay in the riverside cottage that is surrounded by the three acres of Lydbrook House's grounds.