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Dean Heritage Centre
Get DirectionsAbout Dean Heritage Centre
Located in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire; a perfect day out for all the family!
As an accredited museum, we focus on preserving the Forest of Dean's heritage. We share stories and artefacts. We also create an interactive centre and care for valuable items. Our goal is to ensure a lasting legacy and protect our collection for future generations. The Dean Heritage Museum Trust is a registered charity. We depend on the income generated by our visitors. Help keep our local history and heritage alive.
The Museum
The Dean Heritage Centre has five galleries. You can explore the journey from prehistoric times to how the community coped during WW2. The museum offers a fun and interactive experience. It has fun activities and visual displays. Our indoor trails let you learn more about the centre and its amazing exhibits. Ask a member of our team at the centre for more details during your visit.
The Gruffalo Trail
We based our woodland trail on the much-loved children's book, The Gruffalo. Join the famous mouse on a short trail by the brook. Explore carved montages that share the tale of the Gruffalo, created by Julia Donaldson. As you walk the trail, you'll see how the mouse escapes tricky situations. You'll enjoy the great story and admire the beloved character carvings. Come along and enjoy this wonderful story with your family in the beautiful Forest of Dean. We are a woodland site with gravel paths, but the trail is suitable for a buggy.
The Coffee Shop
Located on the upper level of The Dean Heritage Centre, our coffee shop is the ideal spot to relax and unwind. Our menu has a wide range of breakfasts, lunches, snacks, and drinks. Whether you prefer to sit inside or take in the scenic views of the mill pond from our balcony, we've got you covered. And for those in a hurry, we offer convenient takeaway services.
The Gift Shop
The gift shop plays an important part as the entrance to the museum, but it is also a shopping destination in its own right. A proud supporter of local craftspeople and artists, from jewellers and printmakers to glass artists and woodworkers. We also sell a wide range of toys and gifts inspired by the Forest, the museum itself, and of course, the Gruffalo. Every pound you spend in the gift shop helps to support our aim to preserve the heritage, culture, and history of the Forest of Dean.
What's on? About us Admissions FAQs
Facilities at Dean Heritage Centre
- Coffee Shop
- Gift Shop
- Toilets
- Disabled access
- Disabled toilets
- School Trips
- Meeting Room
- Craft Hut
- Museum
Related Content

Guided Historical Woodland Walks
Dates:
17th Sept 2025 - 17th Sept 2025
Join Alex for a walk in the woods to discover hidden gems beneath the canopy of magnificent beech… Join Alex for a walk in the woods to discover hidden gems beneath the canopy of magnificent beech and oak.

Heritage Open Day
Dates:
17th Sept 2025 - 17th Sept 2025
Visit us on our Heritage Open Day 17th of September for free Visit us on our Heritage Open Day 17th of September for free

Apple Weekend
Dates:
25th Oct 2025 - 26th Oct 2025
Learn how to make your own fresh apple juice, apple crafts, and apple treats in the Coffee Shop! Learn how to make your own fresh apple juice, apple crafts, and apple treats in the Coffee Shop!

Halloween - Spooky Celebrations!
Dates:
27th Oct 2025 - 31st Oct 2025
Celebrate Halloween at the DHC! Celebrate Halloween at the DHC!
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