RestaurantsMonmouthshireColefordGL16
Speech House Road, Coleford, GL16 7EL

survey result

Summary

£55
   ££
3
Good
3
Good
3
Good
* Based on a three course dinner, half a bottle of wine, coffee, cover charge, service and VAT.

“Set in a 17th-century hunting lodge”, this “lovely place to stay and eat” is “beautifully placed in the heart of the Forest of Dean”. There are a range of spaces in which to dine: more formal “dinners are served in the old Verderer’s (Magistrates’) Court Room, with a blazing log fire for atmosphere and warmth”, and some “delicious” offerings on the “limited menu”; the more relaxed Orangery meanwhile turns out “hearty teas with local goodies and good views over the gardens”. They also have cosy Outdoor Dining Dens for small groups which can be booked by the hour. All in all, an “undiscovered gem”.

For 35 years we've been curating reviews of the UK's most notable restaurant. In a typical year, diners submit over 50,000 reviews to create the most authoritative restaurant guide in the UK. Each year, the guide is re-written from scratch based on this survey (although for the 2021 edition, reviews are little changed from 2020 as no survey could run for that year).

Have you eaten at Verderers Court, The Speech House Hotel?

Owner's description

Verderers’ is our fine dining restaurant within The Speech House – from an intimate meal for two through to a private function for up to 50 people. Perfect if you’re looking for a more formal dining setting with a modern twist. The historic beamed Verderer’s Court restaurant reflects the room’s continuing use as a courthouse for the Forest of Dean Verderers.

Offering you an imaginative fine dining menu which our talented Head Chef, Gareth Jenkins, changes seasonally. The dishes are prepared with fresh, and as far as possible, locally sourced ingredients. We cater for vegetarians, vegans and special dietary requirements – just let us know. 

Prices

Availability 2 courses 3 courses coffee included service included
SundayLunch £23.95 £28.95

Traditional European menu

Starter Main Veggies Pudding
£8.50 £20.00 £4.00 £7.50
Drinks  
Wine per bottle £19.55
Filter Coffee £2.70
Extras  
Service 10.00%

Restaurant details

Highchair,Menu,Portions
25, 60
No dress code
1

Private dining

Whether you’re looking for a private dining room for a small and intimate wedding celebration, a client lunch, or special birthday dinner – the Speech House can cater for your occasion.

We can offer a range of rooms, from The Verderers’ Court for groups up to 60, The Carolean which seats up to 25 for a more intimate experience, or one of our heated Outdoor Dens, seating 6 for those cosy evenings with twinkling lights.

Speech House Road, Coleford, GL16 7EL
Opening hours
Monday6 pm‑9 pm
Tuesday6 pm‑9 pm
Wednesday6 pm‑9 pm
Thursday6 pm‑9 pm
Friday6 pm‑9 pm
Saturday6 pm‑9 pm
Sunday12 pm‑3 pm, 6 pm‑9 pm

The 2026 Harden's Guide

2026 Hardens Best UK Restaurant Guide

"User friendly in price, size and outlook"

Financial Times