The Best of Summer... Without the Crowds
September has quietly become one of our favourite times of year.
The days are often pleasantly warm, the evenings are cooler (perfect excuse for another drink by the hot tub), and the countryside is still beautifully green before autumn colours begin to arrive.
Walking trails that were busy in August suddenly feel peaceful again, attractions are easier to enjoy, and you'll spend less time queuing and more time making memories.
If you're the sort of person who likes beautiful scenery without hundreds of other people in every photograph, September is your month.
Forest House – Made for Bringing People Together
Located right in the centre of Coleford, Forest House couldn't be better placed for exploring the Forest of Dean.
Originally a four-star hotel, it has been transformed into a spacious holiday home with everything large groups need.
You'll find:
11 ensuite bedrooms sleeping up to 25 guests
Two comfortable lounges
A games room with pool table
A large dining room where everyone can eat together
A well-equipped kitchen for feeding a crowd
Hot tub
Pet-friendly accommodation
Walking and cycling routes straight from the front door
One of the biggest advantages is that you can simply park the cars and forget about them. Shops, cafés, pubs and restaurants are all within easy walking distance, making life wonderfully easy for the designated drivers.
Explore the Forest of Dean
One reason guests return year after year is the incredible choice of things to do nearby.
Whether your group enjoys gentle countryside walks or more adventurous days out, you'll find plenty to keep everyone entertained.
Popular activities include:
Walking through ancient woodland
Cycling the Forest trails
Visiting picturesque villages
Canoeing on the River Wye
Independent cafés and country pubs
Wildlife spotting
Family attractions throughout the Forest
Of course, there's absolutely nothing wrong with doing very little at all.
Many groups tell us their favourite moments are simply sitting together over breakfast, enjoying long lazy lunches, soaking in the hot tub or spending an evening chatting around the dining table while someone inevitably becomes far too competitive over the pool table.
Perfect for Families and Friends
One of the joys of staying somewhere large is that everyone can enjoy the weekend their own way.
Early risers can head out for a morning walk while others enjoy a leisurely coffee.
The adventurous members of the group can disappear off exploring while grandparents relax with a newspaper.
Dogs can come too, making sure nobody has to leave a much-loved family member behind.
Then everyone meets back together for dinner and stories about the day's adventures.
Those shared evenings are often what people remember most.
September Offers Worth Booking Quickly
Because these are off-peak dates, there are some excellent savings available.
Current offers include:
4 September 2026
2 nights – Now £3,450 (was £4,150)
3 nights – Now £3,750 (was £4,350)
11 September 2026
2 nights – Now £3,250 (was £3,650)
3 nights – Now £3,650 (was £3,950)
When the cost is shared between up to 25 guests, it becomes surprisingly affordable for such a spacious property in such a sought-after location.
Before the Colours Arrive
One of September's best-kept secrets is that you enjoy the very best of two seasons.
You still have long daylight hours and often lovely weather, but there are little hints that autumn is just around the corner.
Perhaps it's a slightly cooler morning, the smell of wood smoke from a nearby cottage, or the first golden leaves beginning to appear among the trees.
It's a beautiful time to explore the countryside.
And if autumn arrives a little early this year?
There are few better places to watch the seasons change than the ancient woodland of the Forest of Dean.
Don't Leave It Too Late
September weekends have become increasingly popular as more people discover the benefits of travelling outside the peak summer holidays.
The combination of quieter attractions, beautiful countryside and lower prices makes it one of the smartest times to book.
So gather the family, message the friends you've been promising to catch up with, pack the walking boots, and prepare for a weekend filled with laughter, fresh air and great food.
The summer crowds may have gone—but the best memories could still be waiting.
Forest House is ready whenever you are.
