FANTASTIC weather this weekend made going out a must. So we climbed into the car and crossed the Severn to The Forest of Dean where we went to visit the Dean Heritage Centre.
It's a little gem of a museum and a must for those who want to find out more about the Forest. Tucked away in the little village of Soudley it boasts five modern galleries, a charcoal burner's camp and a traditional Forester's cottage.
After enjoying a baked potato in the cafe which overlooks a lovely mill pond and the surrounding woodland, we pottered off to admire the two Gloucester Old Spots who are a delightful attraction for all visitors.
The two pigs are aptly named Trinny and Susannah but have the Pedigree names of Princess Joan 5 and Princess Joan 7. We were fascinated to learn that pigs always walk on tip-toe like ballerinas which is why they are happiest in soft ground. Concrete may be easier for humans to clean but for the pigs it is uncomfortable terrain. We were also interested to learn that local pig farmers and owners have the right to let their pigs roam in the forest. Not only this but that at present there are over 150 wild boar already loose in local woodlands. Apparently, they are not at all fierce but quite shy and retiring creatures.
We can thoroughly recommend The Dean Heritage Museum as a great and relaxing way to spend the day. Enjoy!
Zappy5971
I love pigs. They are an honest sort of animal if you ask me. I once held a piglet and couldn't eat pork for weeks. Yikes.