Autumn is calling

Autumn colour is beginning to emerge across England's forests, with Autumn Leaf Watch observations already revealing signs of seasonal change in woodlands across the country.

Now is the perfect time to pull on your walking boots, enjoy some of Forestry England's best family activities below and discover the changing colours for yourself.

Why not become an autumn spotter too? By taking part in Autumn Leaf Watch, Forestry England's new autumn colour tracker, you can help build a long-term picture of how autumn colour develops across the nation's forests while enjoying the season's spectacular display firsthand.

Plan the perfect autumn visit in the Forest of Dean with Forestry England’s top five family activities.

Meet The Gruffalo at Beechenhurst

Come and hear the brand-new Gruffalo story from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler at the free Welcome to Storytime with Gruffalo Granny event and meet The Gruffalo!

Gruffalo Granny storytelling sessions and Gruffalo meet-and-greets will be taking place at various times throughout the day and there will be lots of other fun, family activities on offer at Beechenhurst.

Copies of Gruffalo Granny will be available to buy at the event too.

See the wonder of autumn Symonds Yat Rock

Follow the Symonds Yat Trail through the ancient woodlands of the Wye Valley to one of England's most spectacular viewpoints.

As the seasons change, this circular walk becomes a breathtaking autumn experience. Wander beneath a canopy of glowing gold, amber and copper leaves, crunch through fallen foliage and breathe in the fresh woodland air as you make your way to the famous viewpoint at Symonds Yat Rock. From here, sweeping views across the winding River Wye and the surrounding forest reveal a stunning tapestry of autumn colour, creating a picture-perfect day out for the whole family.

For younger explorers, why not combine your walk with a Gruffalo orienteering adventure?

Saddle up for an autumn family adventure

With hundreds of kilometres of cycling trails and family-friendly off-road routes, the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre is the perfect place to enjoy an autumn bike ride surrounded by the colours of the season.

The Colliers Trail is ideal for families and beginners looking for a gentle woodland bike ride. This fully waymarked circular route follows the path of the old railway that once served the Forest of Dean's coal mines, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area's industrial heritage. Along the way, enjoy peaceful forest views and flashes of autumn colour as the leaves transform the landscape.

Families looking for something a bit more thrilling should try the green-graded Old Bob’s Trail. Winding through beautiful woodland dressed in its autumn best, this gentle trail is perfect for first-time riders and families wanting to build confidence while enjoying the forest at their own pace. The route is suitable for a wide range of cycles, including adaptive bikes, trikes, tag-a-longs and four-wheeled cycles, helping everyone enjoy the experience together.

Forgot your bikes? No problem. You can hire bikes at the Cycle Centre that are specially designed for younger riders to build off-road cycling skills.

Follow The Gruffalo through the forest

Wrap up warm and set off on a family-friendly Gruffalo orienteering adventure through the forest.

Using a simple map, little explorers can search for hidden Gruffalo markers while learning the basics of navigation. It's a fun way to build confidence, encourage teamwork and develop map-reading skills while discovering the magic of the forest in autumn.

There are two courses in the Forest of Dean: one at Symonds Yat Rock and another at Mallards Pike. Pick up a Gruffalo orienteering leaflet, complete with map and certificate, from the cafe for just £2.50 before you set off.