Local Information

Ruardean is a village to the west of Cinderford and situated in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire. It lies within a landscape of Limestone Hills above the Wye Valley and occupies a very prominent position on a steep north facing hillside.

St. John The Baptist's Church, dating from 1111AD, is the village' main centrepiece and landmark and is one of the highest parts of the Forest of Dean. The tower commands sweeping views of the Wye Valley and Welsh Mountains, and trips up to the battlements can be arranged for visitors. Outstanding features of the church consist of a carving of the Virgin Mary over the south porch and a tympanum representing St. George and the Dragon above the south door. This is dated to the 12th century and was carved by the Hereford School of Sculpture. In a field nearby are the remains of an old manor house, known locally as The Castle, which was reputedly destroyed during the Civil War by Cromwellian troops.

During the 19th century the church's inhabitants were Reverend John Horlick and his descendents, James and William, famous for their hot malt beverage Horlicks. Horlick's Barn in Ruardean is the building where the brothers are reputed to have carried out early experiments which lead to the successful drying of milk. The small building still stands behind the Malt Shovel public house on the High Street.

The nearest pub is The Malt Shovel Inn which is approximately 200 yards from Deansbrook. It serves good food which includes

a children's menu and a vegetarian option.

Real ales are available in the restaurant and in the bar and includes:

Buxom Barmaid

Tanglefoot

Reverend James

Champ Flower

Golden Arrow

Theakston's Old Peculiar

Ruardean also boasts a sub post office, grocers, chip shop, butchers, doctors surgery and garage.

Deansbrook

Stylish, comfortable and well equipped