The Forest of Dean is one of England’s oldest and most fascinating landscapes — a place where nature, history, and creativity come together.
Tucked between the River Severn and the River Wye, the Forest of Dean is a unique corner of Gloucestershire with a character all of its own. Once a royal hunting ground, this ancient forest is now a haven for outdoor adventures, local produce, family days out, and peaceful escapes.
Steeped in myth, legend and industrial heritage, the Forest is shaped by its trees, its people, and its long history. From Iron Age forts and Roman roads to Freeminers' traditions and centuries-old villages, this is a place where the past sits alongside the present - and where every visit offers something new to discover.
Whether you’re here for a short break or a longer stay, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Explore ancient woodland trails on foot or by bike, visit local attractions like Puzzlewood and Clearwell Caves, or relax at a café tucked into the trees.
The forest is home to wildlife, dark skies, and dramatic viewpoints like Symonds Yat Rock. Families love Perrygrove Railway, the Sculpture Trail, and Cannop Ponds, while adventurers can try canoeing on the River Wye or zip-lining through the trees.
There’s also a strong creative and cultural side to the Forest of Dean, from local galleries and makers to community events and performance spaces. Traditional pubs, forest food, and independent shops all add to the area’s welcoming feel.
The Forest of Dean has inspired generations of artists, filmmakers, walkers, and daydreamers — and it’s easy to see why. Whether you come for the views, the peace and quiet, or the sense of something a little bit magical, the forest leaves a lasting impression.
From quiet village lanes to bustling market towns like Coleford, Cinderford, and Lydney, the Forest of Dean invites you to slow down, look around, and make your own memories.
13th Century Farmhouse + AA 2 Red Rosette Restaurant for intimate meals and retreats. 13th Century Farmhouse + AA 2 Red Rosette Restaurant for intimate meals and retreats.
16th Century Boutique Farmhouse Hotel with 20 en-suite bedrooms and AA 2 Rosette Restaurant. 16th Century Boutique Farmhouse Hotel with 20 en-suite bedrooms and AA 2 Rosette Restaurant.
David Broadbent Photography produces cutting edge and on trend work in stills, video, drone and… David Broadbent Photography produces cutting edge and on trend work in stills, video, drone and time-lapse to communicate your business message effectively with over 30 years…
Discover the Wonder of Under! The neolithic mines at Clearwell Caves are a secret world hidden… Discover the Wonder of Under! The neolithic mines at Clearwell Caves are a secret world hidden beneath the trees – an exciting underground experience for the whole family.
Fun, photographic training, group guiding, photography mindfulness sessions and Photo holidays in… Fun, photographic training, group guiding, photography mindfulness sessions and Photo holidays in the heart of the forest and valley with pro photographer, David Broadbent.…
Prices from:
£650.00
Converted Coach House in tranquil village of Newland. 'Cathedral of the Forest' and Ostrich Inn… Converted Coach House in tranquil village of Newland. 'Cathedral of the Forest' and Ostrich Inn within 100 meters. 3 large bedrooms, 2 sitting rooms, open fire, patio with…
Ross on Wye Canoe Hire, based in Symonds Yat West in the heart of the Wye valley is one of the UK's… Ross on Wye Canoe Hire, based in Symonds Yat West in the heart of the Wye valley is one of the UK's leading Canoe Hire specialists with over thirty years of experience in the…
Two unique, hand built cedar cabins at The Roost Luxury Cabins - a multi-award winning, adults only… Two unique, hand built cedar cabins at The Roost Luxury Cabins - a multi-award winning, adults only site set in over 2 acres of woodside meadow within an SAC (Special Area of…
Select a Timeframe:
Date From:
Date To:
Dates:
19th Dec 2025 - 19th Dec 2025
A whole day with your own pottery wheel in our lovely rural pottery studio A whole day with your own pottery wheel in our lovely rural pottery studio
Dates:
6th Dec 2025 - 6th Dec 2025
We’ve teamed up with Jo to provide Christmas Wreath workshops so that you can create your own… We’ve teamed up with Jo to provide Christmas Wreath workshops so that you can create your own seasonal display.
Dates:
5th Dec 2025 - 5th Dec 2025
We’ve teamed up with Jo to provide Christmas Wreath workshops so that you can create your own… We’ve teamed up with Jo to provide Christmas Wreath workshops so that you can create your own seasonal display.
Dates:
29th Nov 2025 - 29th Nov 2025
Combine Pottery Making with Food Combine Pottery Making with Food
Event Dates:
28th Nov 2025 - 28th Nov 2025
We’ve teamed up with Jo to provide Christmas Wreath workshops so that you…
View Event
Event Dates:
15th Nov 2025 - 15th Nov 2025
A whole day with your own pottery wheel in our lovely rural pottery studio
View Event
Event Dates:
8th Nov 2025 - 8th Nov 2025
Join Anna from Made at the Hut for the mindful art of Indian Block…
View Event
Event Dates:
30th Oct 2025 - 30th Oct 2025
Spooky pottery painting!
View Event
Prices from:
£85.00
These fun session in our lovely rural pottery studio include making theme related pottery on the… These fun session in our lovely rural pottery studio include making theme related pottery on the wheel, painting of themed pottery blanks & themed food to round off your…
Prices from:
£215.00
4x4 off road driving - use your own 4x4 for a half or full day with a professional instructor. 4x4 off road driving - use your own 4x4 for a half or full day with a professional instructor.
Prices from:
£249.00
Advanced 4x4 off road driving experience. Land Rovers - Defenders & Discoveries. Advanced 4x4 off road driving experience. Land Rovers - Defenders & Discoveries.
Prices from:
£179.00
Introductory 4x4 off road course - Gift experiences - Off-road driving - Half day 4x4 driving -… Introductory 4x4 off road course - Gift experiences - Off-road driving - Half day 4x4 driving - Land Rovers - Defender 90 - Discovery - 4wd days
EXCLUSIVE JUNE OFFER - 10 % OFF Remaining Glamping Breaks for stays until 25/7/2025. EXCLUSIVE JUNE OFFER - 10 % OFF Remaining Glamping Breaks for stays until 25/7/2025.
Free entry to the entire Dean Heritage Centre site! Free entry to the entire Dean Heritage Centre site!
Discover six scenic parkruns, PB-friendly routes, and family-friendly trails in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley - your next running weekend awaits.
The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is home to a huge variety of birds throughout the year. Some are resident and can be seen in great numbers while others come here for the spring and summer, or autumn and winter.
Read moreExplore the Forest of Dean's Hidden Heritage using two 'Hidden Heritage' apps. An exciting new way to explore the Forest of Dean using modern technology to bring historic areas to life.
Read moreBe the first to hear about our exciting events, offers, inspiration and competitions by signing up.
