Beechenhurst

The perfect starting point for your forest adventure

Beechenhurst, managed by Forestry England, sits in the heart of the Forest of Dean and is a welcoming hub for walking, play and discovery. With easy access to a range of trails, family-friendly facilities and seasonal activities, it’s an ideal place to begin your day in the forest.

Explore, play and discover

There’s plenty to enjoy for all ages and abilities. Choose from a selection of waymarked walking trails, from gentle strolls to longer routes through beautiful woodland. Younger visitors can let off steam in the large, imaginative play area located next to the cafe.

Beechenhurst is also home to the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail – a unique outdoor 'gallery' where artworks sit among the trees and evolve alongside the forest over time.

Adventure your way

If you’re looking for something more active, take on the Go Ape high ropes course for a treetop adventure featuring crossings, bridges and zip wires.

Cyclists can join the Colliers Trail directly from Beechenhurst – a family-friendly, waymarked route along former railway lines, connecting to villages and scenic picnic spots across the Forest of Dean.

Relax and refuel

The on-site cafe serves a range of freshly prepared food and drinks, perfect for a mid-walk break or a post-adventure treat.

Prefer to bring your own? There are plenty of picnic tables, as well as a bookable gas barbecue for relaxed outdoor dining.

Accessible for everyone

Beechenhurst is designed to be enjoyed by as many people as possible, with the accessible Glade Trail, a Changing Places facility and an all-terrain mobility scooter available to hire.

A truly low-cost day out

Beechenhurst is free to visit, with only parking charges in place to support the care and maintenance of the Forest of Dean. Regular visitors could save money with a Forest of Dean membership.

Quality from start to finish

Beechenhurst is a VisitEngland quality-assured visitor attraction. This recognised standard provides reassurance that every aspect of your visit, from arrival through to departure, has been independently assessed to meet high standards, so you can focus on enjoying your time in the forest.