Forest of Dead???

Originally posted Tuesday, 21 April, 2009

Such a nice day today, why stay indoors?? Well, unfortunately the Forest of Dean appears to be going down hill......rapidly!

At first, we thought, "hey, why not go to Littledean Jail?" Nothing like a day out admiring the macabre. So we rang....only to find out it isn't open.....not just today...it is only open weekends, bank holidays and school holidays. Of course. Its far better for children to see devices meant to torture and maim, than for them to be playing a computer game that involves driving at high speeds while sitting in the comfort (and safety) of the armchair. There goes that idea. Surely there is something open??
The first stop on the tour was the Puzzle Woods in Coleford. Seemed nice enough, although there was no electric in the cafe, and, not including us, there were about 5 people. And as for the animals?? A couple of shetland ponies, some donkeys, 2 rabbits, and some other animals that you could find on any farm in the area. If it wasnt such a nice day, it would not have been worth the entrance fee.
Next stop? Harts Barn, Longhope. In a nutshell......pointless. They only things open were the vets and the toilets. The highlight was someone driving around the concrete on a lawnmower.
Hazelfield garden centre at Newent was a nice stop, although if you've been hit by the credit crunch, forget the garden furniture!! Granted, the design and quality are excellent, but not ideal for the current financial situation in the country. However, if you're looking for something a little different to keep the kids / husband / boyfriend quiet, (or keep the mother-in-law from the house) it is well worth a look at the reptiles. Who needs guard dogs, when you can have a fifteen foot Burmese Python!
It is an unfortunate thing that the Forest is heading down a slippery slope. But with rising prices and falling trade, how much longer is it going to be the tourist attraction and beauty spot that it once was?