The best Christmassy outings

If you’re looking to sprinkle some festive sparkle into your December, the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley are where winter magic meets woodland wonder. Think twinkling lights between ancient trees, cosy market stalls, and just enough mist to make everything feel like a Christmas card come to life.

In this blog we share five festive outings that’ll make you want to dig out your woolliest scarf and hum “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” all day long.

1. Meet Santa Underground at Clearwell Caves

For something truly unique (and magical), venture beneath the forest floor to Clearwell Caves, where Christmas takes on a twinkly, underground twist. Their Festive Forest event transforms the caverns into a sparkling world of fairy lights, storytelling, and there’s a very jolly Santa to meet. There’s something wonderfully atmospheric about seeing festive displays flicker off the cave walls – it’s like stepping straight into a winter fairy tale.

Perfect for… families and little explorers eager to meet Santa and enjoy a magical underground adventure.

2. Winter Woodland Walks & The Stick Man Trail at Beechenhurst

When you’ve had your fill of Sunday lunch at one of the local pubs (The Fountain Inn is a stellar choice!), stretch your legs among the frosty trees of Beechenhurst. The Stick Man Trail is a festive family favourite, with activities and sculptures dotted along the route. It’s not just a fun way for little explorers to burn off their Christmas excitement, but a good way for the adults to burn off all those roasty potatoes too. The air smells of pine, the paths crunch beneath your boots, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot deer or wild boar wandering through the trees.

Perfect for… families and those with dogs wanting some fresh-air fun combined with festive woodland exploration.

3. Christmas Markets & Festive Feasting

If you love a bit of bustle and twinkle, head to the Ross-on-Wye Christmas Fayre, where more than 80 stalls overflow with gifts, crafts, and irresistible treats. Or get your dancing shoes on for a Christmas Party Night at The Speech House Hotel – all festive buffet spreads and fairy-lit merriment. Over at Taurus Crafts, the artisan Christmas markets are the place to pick up something beautifully handmade and locally sourced.

Perfect for… shoppers after unique, locally made gifts and a merry seasonal atmosphere.

4. Glide into Christmas at Perrygrove Railway’s Ice Rink

Get your skates on this December at Perrygrove Railway, where their seasonal ice rink transforms the woodland into a festive winter wonderland. Twinkling lights, frosty paths, and a cheerful seasonal soundtrack set the scene as you glide (or wobble!) across the rink. Little ones and adults alike can enjoy hot drinks nearby, while festive decorations add a magical touch to the experience.

Perfect for… anyone who fancies a bit of festive fun on ice – ideal even if the weather outside is grim.

5. Candlelit Carols at Tintern Abbey

Few places capture the true essence of Christmas quite like Tintern Abbey. The ancient ruins are breathtaking any time of year, but when lit by hundreds of flickering candles and filled with the sound of carols echoing through the stone, it’s pure magic. The event usually includes mulled wine and mince pies (as all good Christmas events should).

Perfect for… those seeking a serene, atmospheric festive outing that reflects the real spirit of Christmas and a sense of history.

The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley offer a quieter, more understated way to enjoy the season. There’s charm in wandering frost-tipped woods, discovering small festive markets, or attending a candlelit service in an abbey. It’s about pacing yourself, enjoying the surroundings, and discovering little pockets of seasonal cheer – often far removed from the high street and the usual commercial rush.

So wrap up warm, lace up your boots, and don that slightly ridiculous Christmas jumper and get ready to make some merry memories in one of Britain’s most enchanting winter landscapes.

Other Seasonal Events in the Wye Valley

Crafts

• Christmas Decoration Workshop
• Mosaic Angel Crafternoon
• Wreath making

Food

• Decorate Christmas Macaroons
• Breakfast With Santa Paws
• Wythall Estate Vineyard Wine Tasting
• Festive Afternoon Tea
• Live Fire Festive Dining

Music

• Shania Twain Tribute Night
• Robin Hood Pantomime

Shopping

• Severn & Wye Late Night Shopping

Family Activities

• Medicine of The North Pole
• Good Tidings family Trail
• Christmas adventure: Butterfly Safari and a Legendary Quest

See all of our upcoming events here.