Hotel Review: The Saracens Head, Symonds Yat

The Saracens Head Inn has a stunning location in a steep wooded gorge literally feet from the River Wye in Symonds Yat East in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It's around ten minutes' drive from the A40 between the historic towns of Ross-on-Wye and Monmouth. Take a river cruise with Kingfisher Cruises, operating a few steps from the inn. Cycling, canoeing, climbing and riverside walks are on offer, too.

By car: around 1 hour from Bristol, 3 hours from London and 3 hours 30 minutes from York. There is free parking on site.

By train: direct services run to Lydney from Gloucester (25 minutes) and Cardiff Central (1 hour 20 minutes). The hotel is a 30 minute drive from Lydney Station. Book trains to Lydney.

The Saracen's Head has a welcoming, informal vibe with uncluttered décor, wood floors and furniture, fascinating old photographs of Symonds Yat on the walls and log burners to toast yourself by in winter. The inn isn't suitable for guests with disabilities, and no children aged under 14 can stay.

Co-owners and brothers Chris and Pete Rollinson are welcoming hosts, whether you're stopping for just a drink or spending a few days. There's a small residents' lounge with TV and games, and a car park close by. The inn's map of six local walks, hand ferry crossings across the river and Wi-Fi are all free for guests.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Terrace
• Fishing

• Free parking

• Free Wi-Fi

The nine ensuite rooms with twin beds or big doubles are comfortable and non-fussy, with modern, clean, fresh décor and bed linens. Two suites with seating areas in the adjoining boathouse are extra spacious. Each room has a TV and tea and coffee-making facilities with biscuits. Bathrooms have a bath and/or shower.

Room types: Inn rooms, Boathouse rooms

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom, full cooked breakfast included, smart TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi

The Saracen's Head has an extensive crowd-pleaser menu for lunch and dinner in the rustic flagstone-floored bar, restaurant or outside on riverside terraces. Choose from sandwiches, baguettes, daily specials and dishes featuring local produce, with children and vegetarian options, too. The well-stocked bar offers six real ales including Butty Bach and Ledbury Gold.

Restaurant: one AA Rosette. Relaxed, friendly, modern international cuisine. Open 12.30-2.30pm and 6-9pm daily. Dinner mains from £14.95.