A Taste of Autumn in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley

October is one of the most atmospheric months in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. The trees turn copper and gold, the air grows crisp, and the region’s food scene begins to reflect the season, with menus leaning into comfort, warmth, and locally sourced ingredients. For visitors planning an autumn trip, it’s a great time to explore scenic trails, discover independent cafés, and enjoy the kind of meals that feel just right after a walk through falling leaves. With over 20 million trees in the forest, the variety is striking, oak, beech, birch, sweet chestnut, and larch all contribute to the changing canopy.

One of the best ways to experience the area in autumn is to combine walking with eating. The Forest of Dean offers a range of trails suitable for all levels, from gentle riverside strolls to more immersive woodland routes. The Sculpture Trail at Beechenhurst is a popular choice, offering a mix of art and nature that changes with the seasons. For something quieter, the circular walk around Newnham-on-Severn provides beautiful views of the River Severn and is especially striking in October when the trees along the banks are in full colour. As you walk, keep an eye on the hedgerows.

Autumn is prime time for foraging, and you’ll often spot rosehips, sloes, hawthorn berries, and blackberries still clinging to the brambles. Sweet chestnuts drop from the trees in spiky husks, and acorns scatter the paths beneath the oak trees. You might also find hazelnuts, crab apples, and elderberries, though many will be past their peak by late October. Wildlife is active too. Deer, badgers, and even wild boar are known to roam the forest, especially in quieter areas. Birds like jays and woodpeckers are easier to spot as the leaves thin out, and Exmoor ponies graze in some of the nature reserves near Woorgreens and Awres Glow.

After a morning outdoors, lunch becomes part of the adventure. Many local cafés and pubs offer seasonal specials, often written up on chalkboards and based on what’s fresh that week. Root vegetables, orchard fruits, mushrooms, and rich cheeses feature heavily, and it’s worth asking what’s local, chances are, it’s been grown or foraged nearby.

One spot that consistently delivers on both food and atmosphere is The Barn at Severn & Wye Smokery. Located just off the A48 in Westbury-on-Severn, it’s part of a working smokery known for its sustainably sourced fish and thoughtful hospitality. The Barn is open Tuesday to Saturday for breakfast and lunch, with dinner service on Friday and Saturday evenings. It’s a great stop for anyone exploring the region or passing through, and it pairs well with nearby walks or village visits.

Breakfast at The Barn is a good way to start the day. The Eggs Royale, made with Severn & Wye’s own smoked salmon, is a standout, while the kedgeree offers something warming and substantial. The Barn Restaurant is  candlelit and a tad more intimate, with dishes like crab agnolotti, roasted monkfish, and rotating seasonal mains starring. The menu changes regularly, often featuring home grown and local produce. For those after something more casual, the Outdoor Kitchen takeaway is open on weekend nights too, serving freshly made bites that are perfect for a relaxed evening either in the car on your journey home or to savour until you reach the comfort of your own home!

The region, Westbury-on-Severn is also known for its cider. Westbury-on-Severn has a long tradition of apple growing, and local producers often press their own blends using heritage varieties. Look out for farm shops or roadside stalls selling fresh-pressed juice or bottled cider. It’s a great way to taste the season and support local growers. Severn Cider is a drink to look out for that you may spot on a local eatery’s menu - located only a short drive away.

If you’re planning a visit to the Forest of Dean or Wye Valley this autumn, it’s worth building your itinerary around seasonal experiences. Walks, local produce, and independent eateries all come together to offer a memorable day out. The Barn at Severn & Wye Smokery is just one example of how the region blends good food with a strong sense of place, quietly impressive, and well worth a visit.

Practical info for The Bart at Severn & Wye Smokery

• Location: Chaxhill, Westbury-on-Severn, GL14 1QW
• Opening Hours: Tuesday–Saturday for breakfast and lunch 9:16:00pm; Friday–Saturday evenings 17:00pm – 21:00pm for dinner
• Closed: Sunday–Monday