The Yew Tree

This is a genuine local's pub with real character — the kind of place where you'll find regulars nursing pints at the bar and families settling in for a proper meal without any fuss.

The building carries genuine history, with parts dating back several centuries. You'll notice low ceilings and exposed beams throughout, along with that comfortable worn-in feeling that only comes from generations of use and care. The atmosphere here is relaxed and unpretentious, which is entirely the point of its appeal.

The menu focuses on traditional British cooking done well — hearty pies, fresh fish, and seasonal vegetables — alongside real ales on tap that locals actually drink. What sets it apart is the complete lack of pretence. There's no attempt to be fashionable or Instagram-friendly, just honest cooking and genuine hospitality. It's exactly the sort of place you'd be genuinely pleased to discover by accident.

Clifford's Mesne itself is tiny, but the location works well for exploring the wider area. The Forest of Dean is nearby for walking and cycling, while the Cotswolds proper is only a short drive away. Nearby towns like Newent and Lydney offer additional amenities when you need them. It functions perfectly as a stop during a day out in the region.