Forest of Dean Art Trail 2026: FarOpen Open Studios | Visit Dean Wye
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.
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.
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…
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.
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.
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.
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…
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…
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.
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.
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,…
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,…
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,…
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…
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. .
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
Established in 1986, the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail is a unique outdoor experience that… Established in 1986, the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail is a unique outdoor experience that seamlessly blends contemporary art with the natural beauty of ancient woodlands.
Select a Timeframe:
Date From:
Date To:
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…
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
Dates:
27th Jan 2026 - 31st Oct 2026
Join Witch and her friends on a spellbinding family adventure through the Forest of Dean on… Join Witch and her friends on a spellbinding family adventure through the Forest of Dean on Forestry England's Room on the Broom trail.
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 own wheel, plenty of… Spend a full day at the potter's wheel with Eastnor Pottery, Ledbury. Your own wheel, plenty of clay and expert tuition. £180 per person. Multiple dates available.
Event Dates:
9th Apr 2026 - 2nd Jul 2026
Next Event Date:
2nd Jul 2026
Throw your own mugs and tea cups on the potter's wheel, paint pottery…
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Event Dates:
10th Apr 2026 - 19th Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
3rd Jul 2026
Try your hand at the potter's wheel with a 90-minute introduction class at…
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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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Event Dates:
16th May 2026 - 30th Aug 2026
Forest of Dean Writers Collection Exhibition
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Event Dates:
24th May 2026 - 13th Sept 2026
Next Event Date:
28th Jun 2026
The Summer Sculpture Exhibition is now in its third year, showcasing over…
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Event Dates:
27th Jun 2026 - 12th Jul 2026
farOpen members showing in lovely cafe setting in woodland
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Event Dates:
28th Jun 2026 - 28th Jun 2026
Mosaic workshop for beginners
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Event Dates:
29th Jun 2026 - 29th Jun 2026
A special performance from the Main Place Singers.
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Event Dates:
4th Jul 2026 - 12th Jul 2026
The farOpen Art Trail returns this July, offering a vibrant annual…
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Event Dates:
4th Jul 2026 - 4th Jul 2026
JOIN US FOR THE UPCOMING SATURDAY NIGHT CLUB 4th JULY 8PM PERFORMANCES BY…
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Event Dates:
10th Jul 2026 - 12th Jul 2026
Relax and immerse yourself in pottery and beautiful countryside
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Event Dates:
19th Jul 2026 - 19th Jul 2026
Outdoor event featuring top class local brass bands
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Prices from:
£89.00
A combination of pottery making, pottery painting and lovely food. A combination of pottery making, pottery painting and lovely food.
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.
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.
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…
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.
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.
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…
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.
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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