Nature
Through The Local Lens: Neil Baker
Post date:
1st July 2026
Through the Local Lens: with photographer Neil Baker. See why he loves the Forest of Dean, top tips and must visit places.
Arts
In the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley
The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley has long been a source of inspiration for artists, makers, and performers. Being well known for its ever-changing light, dramatic landscapes and deep-rooted sense of place, it’s no surprise that the area is home to a thriving and diverse creative community.
In this section, you’ll find galleries, studios, workshops, theatres, exhibitions and events that bring local creativity to life. From contemporary art spaces and traditional crafts to open studios, community festivals, sculpture trails and live performances, there’s always something to explore - whether you’re a creator yourself or simply appreciate beautiful things.
Many artists in the area open their doors for workshops and hands-on experiences, giving you the chance to try something new - from pottery and printmaking to painting, mosaics, and floristry. You’ll also find independent galleries and pop-up exhibitions showcasing work inspired by the landscape, history and heritage of the Dean Wye.
Explore below to discover the artistic heart of the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley and perhaps leave with a piece of it, too.
Arts Businesses
History | Groups | Arts
Tintern Abbey
When we talk about British architectural icons, they don’t come much more iconic than Tintern… When we talk about British architectural icons, they don’t come much more iconic than Tintern Abbey: a Gothic masterpiece and Romantic symbol of the sublime.
Nature | Arts | History
Newnham Private Hire
Bespoke chauffeur driven private tours of the beautiful Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Bespoke chauffeur driven private tours of the beautiful Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
Families | Groups | Nature | Arts | History | Accessible
Newent Library
Gloucestershire Libraries offer free, inclusive community spaces to read, learn, work and connect,… Gloucestershire Libraries offer free, inclusive community spaces to read, learn, work and connect, supporting wellbeing, creativity and digital skills.
Families | Groups | Nature | Arts | History | Accessible
Coleford Library
Coleford Library offers free access to information and shared spaces to work, learn and connect,… Coleford Library offers free access to information and shared spaces to work, learn and connect, helping people build skills and confidence.
Arts | Families | Groups
Rachel Shilston - Inspiring Creativity
Relax, learn a new skill and create a memory of your stay in the Forest of Dean to treasure… Relax, learn a new skill and create a memory of your stay in the Forest of Dean to treasure forever. Perfect for couples, families and small groups looking for some quality…
Families | Groups | Nature | Arts | History | Accessible
Cinderford Library
At Cinderford Library, visitors of all ages can discover books, ideas and new skills in a friendly,… At Cinderford Library, visitors of all ages can discover books, ideas and new skills in a friendly, inclusive space that supports learning, creativity and community…
Groups | Arts | Accessible | Families
Taurus Crafts
Taurus Crafts is a welcoming visitor center in Gloucestershire that features artisan businesses,… Taurus Crafts is a welcoming visitor center in Gloucestershire that features artisan businesses, creative workshops, and locally sourced food within a supportive community…
Arts | Families | Groups
Eastnor Pottery & The Flying Potter
Remarkable pottery experiences for individuals, groups and organisations. We work with thousands of… Remarkable pottery experiences for individuals, groups and organisations. We work with thousands of workshop participants, all ages and abilities, sharing the many benefits…
Arts | History
Hereford Cathedral
Hereford Cathedral is home to the Mappa Mundi & Chained Library and a community which has worked… Hereford Cathedral is home to the Mappa Mundi & Chained Library and a community which has worked and worshipped together continuously for over 1,300 years.
Arts | History
Wobage Maker's Gallery
Contemporary craft gallery in the south Herefordshire hills. Beautiful work, made and sold here by… Contemporary craft gallery in the south Herefordshire hills. Beautiful work, made and sold here by the makers. Ceramics, furniture, wood-carving, kitchenwood, basketry,…
Nature in art is unique - it is the world’s only museum dedicated to art inspired by nature.… Nature in art is unique - it is the world’s only museum dedicated to art inspired by nature. Displays embrace two and three-dimensional work in all mediums and styles,…
4-12 July 2026 are the farOpen art trail dates for your diary. Visit artists in their workshops and… 4-12 July 2026 are the farOpen art trail dates for your diary. Visit artists in their workshops and galleries during this annual event in the Forest of Dean, Wye Valley,…
The Wye Valley Sculpture Garden hosts one of Wales largest outdoor Summer Sculpture Exhibitions and… The Wye Valley Sculpture Garden hosts one of Wales largest outdoor Summer Sculpture Exhibitions and is one of the top things to see when visiting Tintern and the Wye Valley. .
Groups | Arts | Dogs | Families
Hot Pot Pottery
A cosy country pottery offering a wide range of pottery activities, workshops, classes and… A cosy country pottery offering a wide range of pottery activities, workshops, classes and experiences for all ages, levels of ability & budgets in the Forest of Dean.
Forest of Dean photographer, offering photographic prints of landscapes, natural world, wildlife… Forest of Dean photographer, offering photographic prints of landscapes, natural world, wildlife and local events
Visitors come from far and wide to enjoy the Abergavenny Market Hall, a traditional indoor &… Visitors come from far and wide to enjoy the Abergavenny Market Hall, a traditional indoor & outdoor market. With over 200 stands selling a huge range of goods its a must…
Arts Events
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Families | Groups | Arts | Nature
Summer Sculpture Exhibition 2026
Dates:
24th May 2026 - 13th Sept 2026
Next Event Date:
5th Jul 2026
Showcasing over 54 artists and 146 sculptures. The Summer Sculpture Exhibition is designed as an… Showcasing over 54 artists and 146 sculptures. The Summer Sculpture Exhibition is designed as an experience, offering space to slow down, reflect & engage.
Arts | Families
farOpen Summer Exhibition
Dates:
27th Jun 2026 - 12th Jul 2026
farOpen members showing in lovely cafe setting in woodland farOpen members showing in lovely cafe setting in woodland
Families | Groups | Arts
Coleford Busking Festival
Dates:
11th Jul 2026 - 11th Jul 2026
This once popular event returns to raise funds for Coleford Music Festival. Buskers will fill the… This once popular event returns to raise funds for Coleford Music Festival. Buskers will fill the streets to entertain you, whilst waiting for their slot on the town centre…
Arts | Accessible
Sherlock Holmes - The Mystery of the Governor's…
Dates:
30th Aug 2026 - 30th Aug 2026
Join us at All Saints Church Newland as we host Jenny Wren Theatre for a comic play Join us at All Saints Church Newland as we host Jenny Wren Theatre for a comic play
Adventure | Families | Nature
Room on the Broom Trail at Beechenhurst
Event Dates:
27th Jan 2026 - 31st Oct 2026
Join Witch and her friends on a spellbinding family adventure through the…
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Families | Arts | Relaxation
Potter's Wheel Day Course
Event Dates:
8th Apr 2026 - 5th Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
1st Aug 2026
Spend a full day at the potter's wheel with Eastnor Pottery, Ledbury. Your…
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Families | Arts
Potter's Wheel Introduction Class
Event Dates:
10th Apr 2026 - 19th Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
17th Jul 2026
Try your hand at the potter's wheel with a 90-minute introduction class at…
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Arts | Groups
One Day Wheel Throwing Workshop
Event Dates:
1st May 2026 - 5th Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
31st Jul 2026
A full day of wheel throwing at Hot Pot Pottery, Forest of Dean. Your own…
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Arts | History
Beyond the Books Exhibition
Event Dates:
16th May 2026 - 30th Aug 2026
Forest of Dean Writers Collection Exhibition
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Arts
farOpen Annual Open Studios Event
Event Dates:
4th Jul 2026 - 12th Jul 2026
The farOpen Art Trail returns this July, offering a vibrant annual…
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Arts
3 Day Weekend Pottery Retreat - Summer
Event Dates:
10th Jul 2026 - 12th Jul 2026
Relax and immerse yourself in pottery and beautiful countryside
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Families | Accessible | Arts
Scarr Brass Fest
Event Dates:
19th Jul 2026 - 19th Jul 2026
Outdoor event featuring top class local brass bands
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Families | Arts
Pizza & Pottery Experience
Event Dates:
30th Jul 2026 - 3rd Sept 2026
Next Event Date:
30th Jul 2026
Throw your own pizza plates on the potter's wheel, then enjoy wood-fired…
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Families | Arts | Accessible
Sherlock Holmes & The Hound of the Baskervilles
Event Dates:
2nd Aug 2026 - 2nd Aug 2026
Outdoor theatre event
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Families | Groups | Arts
National Play Day
Event Dates:
5th Aug 2026 - 5th Aug 2026
Looking for a day packed with laughter, games and unforgettable memories?
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Adventure | Families | Arts
Room on the Broom Fun Day at Beechenhurst
Event Dates:
13th Aug 2026 - 13th Aug 2026
Join Forestry England for a day of family fun at Beechenhurst this summer…
View EventArts Experiences
Prices from:
£89.00
Arts | Families | Dogs | Groups
Themed Food & Pottery Experiences
A combination of pottery making, pottery painting and lovely food. A combination of pottery making, pottery painting and lovely food.
Arts Itineraries
Dogs | Families | Groups | Arts | History
An arty long weekend in the Forest of Dean & Wye…
Duration: 4 Days 3 Nights
Enjoy an arty weekend in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley with sculpture trails, galleries, creative… Enjoy an arty weekend in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley with sculpture trails, galleries, creative workshops, and inspiring places to visit.
Dogs | Families | Groups | Arts | History
An arty mid week break in the Forest of Dean &…
Duration: 5 Days 4 Nights
A 5-day arty mid-week break exploring sculpture trails, galleries, Tintern Abbey, and creative… A 5-day arty mid-week break exploring sculpture trails, galleries, Tintern Abbey, and creative spots in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
Arts Trails
Adventure | Families | Nature | Arts | History
Film & TV Trail
Follow the Film & TV Trail in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Visit real filming locations from… Follow the Film & TV Trail in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Visit real filming locations from Star Wars, Harry Potter, Sex Education, Merlin and more. Discover why film…
Dogs | Families | Nature | Arts | History | Relaxation
Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail
Duration: 2-3 Hours
Distance 2 - 4.8 Miles
Step into one of the most imaginative walks in Britain at the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail - a… Step into one of the most imaginative walks in Britain at the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail - a unique outdoor gallery where the forest itself becomes part of the artwork.
Nature | Arts | History | Accessible
The Forest of Dean Driving Trail
Duration: 2 Hours
Distance 20 Mile (circular)
The Royal Forest Route is a 20-mile circular driving trail through the very best of the Forest of… The Royal Forest Route is a 20-mile circular driving trail through the very best of the Forest of Dean.
History | Nature | Arts
Myths and Legends Trail
Step into the stories that shape the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley with our Myths & Legends Trail -… Step into the stories that shape the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley with our Myths & Legends Trail - a journey through strange sightings, ghostly whispers, ancient…
Our latest Arts blogs
arOpen open studios trail returns 4-12 July 2026. 127 artists, 55 venues, free entry across the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Plan your route.
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Explore the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail at Beechenhurst this summer. Discover 18 outdoor artworks, woodland walks, family-friendly activities and a unique day out in Gloucestershire.
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Through the Local Lens: with photographer Tom Radford. See why he loves the Forest of Dean, top tips and must visit places.
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