Dogs
Our Five Favourite Dog-friendly Pubs with ‘Proper’ Walks
Post date:
18th May 2025
Discover five favourite dog friendly pubs and 'proper' walks from the stunning Symonds Yat Rock Lodge.
Nature
In the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley
If it’s nature you’re after, you’ve come to the right place. The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is one of the most naturally rich and scenic destinations in the UK - home to ancient woodland, wildflower meadows, river valleys, lakes, and panoramic viewpoints a plenty.
Whether you're here to spot wildlife, take in the seasonal changes, or simply enjoy the peace that comes with time outdoors, you’ll find countless ways to connect with the natural world. From easy-access nature trails and RSPB reserves, to stargazing spots and guided wildlife walks, this is a landscape that rewards slowing down and looking closer.
In this section, you’ll find a handpicked collection of accommodation, experiences, attractions and places to eat that help you stay close to nature - from off-grid retreats and eco-stays to outdoor cafés and activity providers that celebrate the beauty of the landscape around them.
Explore below and plan a visit that puts nature first - whether you're wandering through bluebells, watching wild boar at dusk, or simply listening to birdsong from your cabin doorstep.
Nature Businesses
Accessible | Families | Dogs | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Mallards Pike
Beautiful lake in the Forest of Dean, popular for walking, with lots of picnic benches, nearby… Beautiful lake in the Forest of Dean, popular for walking, with lots of picnic benches, nearby cycle paths and a cafe and toilets on site.
Prices from:
£120.00
Accessible | Families | Dogs | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
The Speech House Hotel
A former historic hunting lodge located in the centre of the Royal Forest of Dean. With 35 en-suite… A former historic hunting lodge located in the centre of the Royal Forest of Dean. With 35 en-suite bedrooms, a cosy bar, pretty garden with heated dining dens, two…
Accessible | Families | Dogs | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Wye Valley Sculpture Garden
The Wye Valley Sculpture Garden is the creation of artist Gemma Kate Wood, that she has built over… The Wye Valley Sculpture Garden is the creation of artist Gemma Kate Wood, that she has built over the last 20 years.
Prices from:
£60.00
Accessible | Families | Dogs | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Bracelands Campsite – Glamping Bell tents &…
Located on the edge of the Forest of Dean, Bracelands campsite is open all year, allowing you to… Located on the edge of the Forest of Dean, Bracelands campsite is open all year, allowing you to embrace nature’s best surroundings whenever you like.
Accessible | Families | Dogs | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Puzzlewood
Puzzlewood is a magical day out in the Forest of Dean. An enchanting, ancient woodland, filled with… Puzzlewood is a magical day out in the Forest of Dean. An enchanting, ancient woodland, filled with fantastic tree and rock formations. A popular TV & film location inc Star…
Accessible | Families | Dogs | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Kingfisher Cruises
Enjoy a cruise on the River Wye through the beautiful Wye Valley from Symonds Yat East. Sit back,… Enjoy a cruise on the River Wye through the beautiful Wye Valley from Symonds Yat East. Sit back, enjoy the scenery and relax. Dogs welcome. Group bookings with onboard…
Accessible | Families | Dogs | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Forest Bathe
Nature's way to restore health and wellbeing. Experience guided Forest Bathing amongst the natural… Nature's way to restore health and wellbeing. Experience guided Forest Bathing amongst the natural beauty of the Forest of Dean.
Accessible | Families | Dogs | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Stay at Lydney Park Estate
Lydney Park Estate has five wonderful holiday homes available to rent in a beautiful location in… Lydney Park Estate has five wonderful holiday homes available to rent in a beautiful location in the Forest of Dean close to numerous activities that the local area has to…
Nature Events
Select a Timeframe:
Date From:
Date To:
Families | Arts | History | Nature
Sculpture Exhibition – 'Back to the Caves: The…
Dates:
23rd May 2025 - 31st Aug 2025
A subterranean sculpture show like no other – 60 world-class artists explore colour beneath the… A subterranean sculpture show like no other – 60 world-class artists explore colour beneath the Forest of Dean
Families | Arts | History | Nature
Father's Day
Dates:
15th Jun 2025 - 15th Jun 2025
Dad's go free on Father's Day at the Dean Heritage Centre! Dad's go free on Father's Day at the Dean Heritage Centre!
Families | Arts | History | Nature
Wildlife Safari
Dates:
31st May 2025 - 31st May 2025
We've teamed up with Ed Drewitt, naturalist, broadcaster and wildlife detective to provide… We've teamed up with Ed Drewitt, naturalist, broadcaster and wildlife detective to provide fascinating, entertaining and hopefully fun Wildlife Safaris around the Forest of…
Nature Experiences
Prices from:
£35.00
Adventure | Families | Groups | Nature | History
Adventure Caving
It's not your average day out. Are you ready to go beyond the tourist trail? It's not your average day out. Are you ready to go beyond the tourist trail?
Nature Trails
Adventure | Families | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Cycling Trails in the Forest of Dean and Wye…
Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just fancy a pootle through peaceful countryside, the Forest… Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just fancy a pootle through peaceful countryside, the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley offers something for everyone on two wheels.
Our guide to 12 easy walks in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley gives you a gentle introduction to… Our guide to 12 easy walks in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley gives you a gentle introduction to the region and some simple routes to get you started exploring.
Adventure | Families | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Ross-on-Wye Riverside & Town Trail
Duration: 1 Hour
Distance 2.2 Miles
Explore Ross-on-Wye with this easy riverside and town walk. Discover historic landmarks, the River… Explore Ross-on-Wye with this easy riverside and town walk. Discover historic landmarks, the River Wye, The Prospect gardens and independent shops along the way.
Adventure | Families | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Film & TV Trail
Follow the Film & TV Trail in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Visit real filming locations from… Follow the Film & TV Trail in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Visit real filming locations from Star Wars, Harry Potter, Sex Education, Merlin and more. Discover why film…
Our latest Nature blogs
Everything, you need to know about canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding on the stunning River Wye at Symonds Yat West!
Read more
Discover canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding on the River Wye in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley - from gentle paddles to full-day and multi-day trips.
Read more
Dogs
The best places to see bluebells in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley
Post date:
17th April 2025
Discover the best places in the UK to see bluebells in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, with peaceful woodland walks and seasonal displays across the region.
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