The Speech House Hotel

The Speech House Hotel – Verderers

Overview

Set deep within Gloucestershire’s Forest of Dean, The Speech House Hotel is a former 17th-century royal hunting lodge, now welcoming guests to a quintessential country house experience. This independently owned property just outside Coleford offers a blend of historic charm and modern comforts, making it ideal for couples, families, and walkers seeking a gourmet weekend break or a midweek escape to the woods. The Verderers Restaurant, housed in the hotel’s original oak-beamed courtroom, sets a distinguished tone for refined dining in the heart of the Forest.

Eat

Verderers is the AA Rosette-awarded fine dining restaurant at The Speech House Hotel, celebrated for its use of local and seasonal Gloucestershire produce. Inside the grand old courtroom, the kitchen crafts a refined à la carte menu with a focus on classic British cuisine, updated by vibrant modern touches. Dishes might include rich terrines made with Forest of Dean game, delicate fish with inventive sauces, and intricate desserts with a nod to heritage recipes. The kitchen’s commitment to quality sourcing runs through everything from house-baked breads to thoughtful vegetarian plates. Expect warm, professional service and a tranquil, atmospheric setting, with the dark wood panelling and tall windows linking every meal to the property’s centuries of history.

Sleep

There are 35 individually styled en-suite bedrooms across the main house and the courtyard, including spacious rooms with four-poster beds and family suites. Interiors range from traditional country house elegance – think heavy drapes, classic prints, and period furniture – to more contemporary simplicity in some courtyard lodgings. Many rooms are dog friendly, and thoughtful touches like generous tea trays and comfortable armchairs add to the sense of a home away from home. The timeless country hotel setting suits couples seeking a romantic forest retreat as much as small groups or families wanting comfortable, heritage-rich accommodation.

Retreat

A short break at The Speech House Hotel is all about making the most of the Forest of Dean. Guests can wander walking trails that start from the doorstep or join bike rides among ancient trees and hidden lakes. The market town of Coleford, just two miles away, provides shops and traditional pubs, while puzzle woodlands and sculpture trails are within a ten-minute drive. The hotel’s historic rooms and lounges offer a great place for afternoon tea or a peaceful hour with a book if the weather turns. From Gloucester, it’s a 40-minute drive through scenic countryside, while Birmingham is around 1.5 hours away by car. The Speech House Hotel is a welcoming base for those chasing fresh air, heritage, and outstanding local food in one of Gloucestershire’s most evocative landscapes.