Leapfrog Public Relations Agency

Forest couple’s plea for help to discover the past
A Forest of Dean couple have issued a plea for help in tracing the history of their 13^th century hotel.

Colin and Hari Fell, owners of the historic Tudor Farmhouse Hotel in Clearwell, would love to hear from anyone who could tell them more about the former farmhouse – either the building or its former occupants and their lives.  Despite its longevity – a farmhouse is believed to have existed on the site for more than 800 years – very little is known about its past.

Tudor Farmhouse Hotel

“We know a little about the place and its history but we feel there are great big gaps in our knowledge about the building and its role in the village over the centuries,” explained Colin.  “The names of the outbuildings – the Barns and the Cider House – can only give us a tiny clue about their former functions, so if anyone has any memories or stories about the house, or any mementoes, documents or photographs tucked away, we would love to hear from them.”

The Tudor Farmhouse Hotel was originally a large working farmhouse, and was once known as Stock Farm, before part of it was turned into a hotel in the 1980’s.  It was acquired by Hari’s parents in 2003 with Colin and Hari taking over in 2007, and now the couple are hoping that individuals or local history groups might be able to help them trace and record the building’s past.  Part of their history project is to put together a collection of early photographs or pictures of the house.

“Any pictures or documents loaned to us would naturally be looked after very carefully and returned to their owners,” he added.  “We’re very curious about such an old building which must have so many stories to tell, and we’d love to hear from anyone who could help us complete its story!”

Despite its 13^th century origins, the hotel now offers outstanding 21^st century comfort with 20 individually decorated bedrooms, including four posters, half testers, Jacuzzi rooms and two suites.  Five bedrooms are in the main house with others in the Barn and Cider Houses a few steps away across the landscaped courtyard.

Following a complete front of house refurbishment programme at the start of 2009, the hotel’s main reception area and function room have been completely updated and redecorated, while a new contemporary conservatory-style link to the cosy lounge area is an ideal setting for light lunches or morning coffee.  A brand new state of the art kitchen is also helping to maintain the hotel’s reputation for consistently high quality, good food.

If you can help Colin and Hari find out more about the Tudor Farmhouse Hotel, please contact them on 01594 833046, or email them at:  [email protected]