One of the Forest of Dean's biggest towns, Coleford, has topped a list of UK market towns that are perfect for a spring staycation.
The list, which has been compiled by holiday rental company HomeToGo, ranks the country's best market towns for an affordable spring staycation, featuring hidden gem locations where holiday accommodation prices for the 2023 spring season are lower than the UK median.
With the average nightly price per person for a holiday rental in Coleford tallying £40.32, it's significantly cheaper than the UK median of £160.17 per night!
Scenic surroundings are a key factor in the rankings, too: all of the towns featured on the list are situated within a one-hour walk of either a national park, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or heritage coast – with Coleford being a great base for exploring the Wye Valley AONB, as well as the ancient Forest of Dean.
A thriving market town, Coleford is well-worth a visit all year round. Forest Deli is an unmissable foodie hotspot for its extensive cheese counter, which champions local produce and has a programme of regular tasting events; while there are plenty of family days out on the doorstep, including Puzzlewood, Perrygrove Railway and Clearwell Caves.
Anyone tempted by a spring staycation can pick up fresh produce from the weekly Coleford Country Market, held every Friday and Saturday; and round off the Easter weekend by seeing vintage vehicles at the annual Carnival of Transport on Monday 10 April 2023.
And while you're visiting, head a little deeper into the Forest of Dean to discover the area's best beauty spots for stunning scenery and unbeatable views.
Coleford isn't the only Gloucestershire destination on the list either, with Lechlade in the Cotswold AONB coming in at number six.
