Symonds Yat - information on The Scenic Forest of Dean community

Symonds Yat is a traveler village in the Forest of Dean. It lies close to the Welsh border. The village has marvelous landscape and views.

History

Songkran Samui

People believe the name 'Symonds Yat' originates from a 17th century sheriff called Robert Symonds, and the ancient word 'yat', meaning a gate or pass. The 'yat' may refer to the old-fashioned two hand (pull) cable ferries that cross the river. Ferrymen manually pull the ferry across via an overhead cable.

The River Wye and East and West Villages

The River Wye runs through the village, and forms a border between two counties.

Symonds Yat is split into an East and West side. The West side is in Herefordshire, and the East side is in Gloucestershire. The river cuts a gorge through ancient limestone rock, exposing impressive rock faces. Archaeological discoveries at a colse to 'King Arthur's Cave' have included Sabre-toothed cat bones and remains of a hyena family.

The Limestone Rock

The village is probably most famous for its large exposed limestone outcrop. This outcrop rises 120 metres, on the Gloucestershire side. between April and August many birds of prey such as Buzzards, Goshawks and Peregrine Falcons are often seen nesting in the cliff face. Telescopes provided by the Rspb and Forest company (owners of the site) help visitors spot the birds of prey. Rspb volunteers help the visitors in using the telescopes.

The cliff face is favorite with climbers, but is very risky to climb and has cost climbers their lives.

Attractions

The East side has two hotels and a canoe hire centre.

The West side has a caravan and camping site, and an amusement park. There is also a maze.

There are artificial rapids for use by canoeists and kayakers in whitewater training.

Boat trips down the river are a great attraction, as well as the country pubs and an oriental garden.

Symonds Yat - information on The Scenic Forest of Dean community