
Why the Forest of Dean is the perfect prescription to de-stress and unwind
The hidden gem that it is, The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley are great for those seeking serenity and calm, and a break from the hustle and bustle of the day-to-day.
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.
Internationally renowned viewpoint with fantastic views over the Wye Valley. A car park, cafe and… Internationally renowned viewpoint with fantastic views over the Wye Valley. A car park, cafe and shop are nearby and there are woodland walks all around including down to…
Ryeford Ponds Glamping is sited on a spacious, 6-acre paddock in a sheltered valley with woodlands,… Ryeford Ponds Glamping is sited on a spacious, 6-acre paddock in a sheltered valley with woodlands, meadows and ponds. With only 2 fully set-up and furnished bell tents,…
Prices from:
£320.00
Oakgrove Cottage self catering cottage for 2 in rural location. Ideal walking birdwatching wildlife… Oakgrove Cottage self catering cottage for 2 in rural location. Ideal walking birdwatching wildlife cycling.
Deanwood Holidays is home to thirteen self-catering cottages and a quiet caravan and camping site,… Deanwood Holidays is home to thirteen self-catering cottages and a quiet caravan and camping site, tucked away in a quiet rural area, on the edge of The Forest of Dean.
Discover Lydney Harbour’s tidal views, heritage sculptures and easy waterside walks. Directions,… Discover Lydney Harbour’s tidal views, heritage sculptures and easy waterside walks. Directions, parking and ideas for things to do nearby.
Blaize Bailey is a viewpoint looking over a horseshoe bend in the River Severn and on a fine day,… Blaize Bailey is a viewpoint looking over a horseshoe bend in the River Severn and on a fine day, you will be able to see Gloucester Cathedral, Newnham and the Cotswold Hills.
Formerly the site of the New Fancy coal mine, the old spoil heap now provides spectacular views… Formerly the site of the New Fancy coal mine, the old spoil heap now provides spectacular views across the Forest. Great for birdwatching and for woodland walks. Easy access…
This medieval hunting park covering survives intact as the Forest Commission's Chepstow Park Wood.… This medieval hunting park covering survives intact as the Forest Commission's Chepstow Park Wood. The wood is 7 km north-west of Chepstow Castle and was originally used by…
Prices from:
£130.00
Willow Cottage, three-bedroom holiday cottage at the heart of Forest of Dean, next to the Cycle… Willow Cottage, three-bedroom holiday cottage at the heart of Forest of Dean, next to the Cycle Centre and mountain bike trails.
With trails for all abilities, this is the perfect place to start your cycling adventure in the… With trails for all abilities, this is the perfect place to start your cycling adventure in the Forest of Dean.
Foresters’ Forest is a £2.5m National Lottery Heritage funded scheme with 38 community projects… Foresters’ Forest is a £2.5m National Lottery Heritage funded scheme with 38 community projects that uncover, reveal, share and celebrate our heritage.
Famous for its carpets of spring wildflowers and peaceful trails, Dymock Woods is a beautiful spot… Famous for its carpets of spring wildflowers and peaceful trails, Dymock Woods is a beautiful spot to enjoy a slower pace and reconnect with nature.
Mallards Pike Cafe overlooks the lake. Our friendly cafe prides itself on serving the best coffee… Mallards Pike Cafe overlooks the lake. Our friendly cafe prides itself on serving the best coffee as well as fresh homemade lunches, cakes & snacks.
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…
Canoe hire in the Wye Valley is the ultimate activity for those who love the outdoors. Ideal for… Canoe hire in the Wye Valley is the ultimate activity for those who love the outdoors. Ideal for families on holiday, friends seeking a challenge or groups wanting to do…
The nation's favourite river, flowing through some of the most beautiful lowland scenery in… The nation's favourite river, flowing through some of the most beautiful lowland scenery in Britain. Find out about the Wye Valley AONB.
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Dates:
15th Nov 2025 - 15th Nov 2025
At dusk, the Forest of Dean is home to all kinds of mighty and mysterious creatures, experience an… At dusk, the Forest of Dean is home to all kinds of mighty and mysterious creatures, experience an evening Wildlife Safari and the Tudor Farmhouse
Dates:
25th Oct 2025 - 25th Oct 2025
On our autumn forages you will be accompanied by fungi experts, Eric, Kerry or Marlow. On our autumn forages you will be accompanied by fungi experts, Eric, Kerry or Marlow.
Dates:
18th Oct 2025 - 18th Oct 2025
At dusk, the Forest of Dean is home to all kinds of mighty and mysterious creatures, experience an… At dusk, the Forest of Dean is home to all kinds of mighty and mysterious creatures, experience an evening Wildlife Safari and the Tudor Farmhouse
Dates:
12th Oct 2025 - 12th Oct 2025
This is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and to create memories through words,… This is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and to create memories through words, sketches and doodles whilst your small group is expertly guided.
Event Dates:
4th Oct 2025 - 4th Oct 2025
At dusk, the Forest of Dean is home to all kinds of mighty and mysterious…
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Event Dates:
4th Oct 2025 - 4th Oct 2025
On our autumn forages you will be accompanied by fungi experts, Eric,…
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Event Dates:
14th Sept 2025 - 14th Sept 2025
Experience the wonders of nature on a captivating journey through the…
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Event Dates:
14th Sept 2025 - 14th Sept 2025
The Day of the Battle
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Event Dates:
23rd May 2025 - 31st Aug 2025
A subterranean sculpture show like no other – 60 world-class artists…
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Event Dates:
26th Aug 2025 - 26th Aug 2025
Roaming Reptiles will be bringing an impressive selection of animals from…
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Event Dates:
24th Aug 2025 - 24th Aug 2025
Experience the wonders of nature on a captivating journey through the…
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Event Dates:
22nd Aug 2025 - 22nd Aug 2025
Experience the wonders of nature on a captivating journey through the…
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Event Dates:
19th Aug 2025 - 19th Aug 2025
Roaming Reptiles will be bringing an impressive selection of animals from…
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Event Dates:
12th Aug 2025 - 12th Aug 2025
Roaming Reptiles will be bringing an impressive selection of animals from…
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Event Dates:
12th Aug 2025 - 12th Aug 2025
Experience the wonders of nature on a captivating journey through the…
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Event Dates:
5th Aug 2025 - 5th Aug 2025
Roaming Reptiles will be bringing an impressive selection of animals from…
View EventExpires: 31st Aug 2025
Family Rafted Canoe's This Summer Family Rafted Canoe's This Summer
Summer hols special 15% OFF Monday to Friday Summer hols special 15% OFF Monday to Friday
Free llama walk when you book a 4 night stay in the shepherds hut Free llama walk when you book a 4 night stay in the shepherds hut
Prices from:
£40.00
Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari, experience the wonders of nature on a captivating journey… Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari, experience the wonders of nature on a captivating journey through the ancient woodlands of the Forest of Dean.
Prices from:
£40.00
Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari, discover all kinds of mighty and mysterious creatures. Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari, discover all kinds of mighty and mysterious creatures.
Prices from:
£40.00
Experience Early Morning Bird Song, theres no sweeter or more harmonious way to begin the day with… Experience Early Morning Bird Song, theres no sweeter or more harmonious way to begin the day with the dawn chorus or morning birdsong.
Prices from:
£179.99
Half Day farm experience including meeting the pigs and cows, a llama pamper session and an… Half Day farm experience including meeting the pigs and cows, a llama pamper session and an afternoon tea.
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.
Distance 0.75 - 3 miles
Downloadable routes and insider tips for 12 gentle walks across the Forest of Dean and Wye… Downloadable routes and insider tips for 12 gentle walks across the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley—perfect for families and casual strollers.
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.
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…
The hidden gem that it is, The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley are great for those seeking serenity and calm, and a break from the hustle and bustle of the day-to-day.
Discover six scenic parkruns, PB-friendly routes, and family-friendly trails in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley - your next running weekend awaits.
Read moreDiscover five favourite dog friendly pubs and 'proper' walks from the stunning Symonds Yat Rock Lodge.
Read moreEverything, you need to know about canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding on the stunning River Wye at Symonds Yat West!
Read more