Through The Local Lens: James Kelly-Smith
Through the Local Lens: Discover the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley with photographerJames Kelly-Smith. Hidden gems and local insights.
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.
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…
Surrounded by cliffs, with views over the River Wye this is a truly magnificent spot. From… Surrounded by cliffs, with views over the River Wye this is a truly magnificent spot. From Wintour's Leap take in a horseshoe bend of the Wye, walk down the cliffs to the…
Whitecliff Ironworks is an important and unique heritage site in the Forest of Dean. It was the… Whitecliff Ironworks is an important and unique heritage site in the Forest of Dean. It was the second coke-fired blast furnace of three built in the Forest of Dean.
Ed and Liz Drewitt - husband and wife team offer guided wildlife-watching in and around the Forest… Ed and Liz Drewitt - husband and wife team offer guided wildlife-watching in and around the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
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…
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.
An arboretum full of unusual and interesting trees in the heart of the Forest of Dean next to the… An arboretum full of unusual and interesting trees in the heart of the Forest of Dean next to the Speech House Hotel.
Fine formal gardens open every spring April-June only and for groups. Beautiful rhododendron and… Fine formal gardens open every spring April-June only and for groups. Beautiful rhododendron and azalea gardens, ponds, waterfalls, temples and ruins. Important Roman Temple…
A nature reserve and lake in the heart of the Forest of Dean which is home to a wide range of… A nature reserve and lake in the heart of the Forest of Dean which is home to a wide range of plants and animals, many miles of footpaths and open forest views. The…
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.
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.
One of the most prominent features in the Lower Wye Valley offering some of the best views and… One of the most prominent features in the Lower Wye Valley offering some of the best views and walks in the area. Bluebells cover the hill in spring and it is well known as…
Prices from:
£340.00
Our unique, dog-friendly safari lodges are the perfect spot for families, friends and couples… Our unique, dog-friendly safari lodges are the perfect spot for families, friends and couples looking for adventure a little closer to nature. Take in the Brecon Beacon views…
Prices from:
£120.00
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…
Prices from:
£70.00
Superb contemporary open-plan apartments opening out onto stunning valley views. Walk straight into… Superb contemporary open-plan apartments opening out onto stunning valley views. Walk straight into the Forest of Dean. Explore Symonds Yat Rock and the Wye Valley.
Prices from:
£60.00
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.
Select a Timeframe:
Date From:
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Dates:
15th Nov 2025 - 15th Nov 2025
Experience the autumn colours and wildlife at dusk in the Forest of Dean this November. Experience the autumn colours and wildlife at dusk in the Forest of Dean this November.
Dates:
5th Dec 2025 - 31st Dec 2025
Wander through our underground Festive Forest, where the woodland animals are preparing for… Wander through our underground Festive Forest, where the woodland animals are preparing for Christmas in their own special way. See Father Christmas, children (2-12) collect…
Dates:
13th Dec 2025 - 13th Dec 2025
Venture out on this winter evening safari just before dusk to watch for secretive and shy wildlife. Venture out on this winter evening safari just before dusk to watch for secretive and shy wildlife.
Summer hols special 15% OFF Monday to Friday Summer hols special 15% OFF Monday to Friday
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…
Through the Local Lens: Discover the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley with photographerJames Kelly-Smith. Hidden gems and local insights.
Plan a festive or winter getaway in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley. Discover cosy stays, scenic walks, Christmas markets, and seasonal adventures.
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Read moreDiscover the best places for autumn colours in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley with our leaf peeping guide, tips, and local highlights.
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