Built in 1676 as a hunting lodge for King Charles II, the Speech House Hotel has been refurbished to offer modern facilities and luxurious rooms while retaining its period features. The Speech House is situated 5 miles from the Wye Valley in the heart of the forest. Most bedrooms have forest views and several have four-poster beds. All rooms are decorated in a traditional style and have TVs with Freeview and free Wi-Fi. The Verderer's Court restaurant has beamed ceilings and offers modern British cuisine. The Orangery serves light meals and afternoon tea and a bar is also available. The Speech House is 10 minutes' drive from the Dean Forest Steam Railway and the Dean Heritage Centre. Chepstow Castle and town centre and Gloucester with its historic docks are a 30-minute drive away.