Celebrating World Book Day in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley
From forests that inspired Tolkien and Rowling to trails that bring storybooks to life, discover the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley's rich literary heritage.
Forest of Dean and Wye Valley
Looking for a destination where the whole family can relax, explore, and have fun together? The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is packed with family-friendly experiences, places to stay, and things to do - making it the perfect spot for a short break or full-on holiday with kids in tow.
From easy walking trails and the best picnic spots to adventure playgrounds, wildlife encounters, and activity centres, there’s something here for every age and energy level. Whether you’re cycling the family Colliers Trail, paddling on the River Wye, or simply spotting birds and boar in the woods, the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is a natural playground that invites curious minds and active feet.
In this section, you’ll find family-friendly accommodation, cafés and pubs with kids’ menus, and attractions and experiences designed to make everyone feel welcome. Rain or shine, there’s always something to do and always room for a snack stop.
Browse below to plan your next family adventure in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley - where memories are made around every corner.
Cycle Trail, Mountain & Road Bike Hire centre situated in the village of Parkend. A Cafe, serving… Cycle Trail, Mountain & Road Bike Hire centre situated in the village of Parkend. A Cafe, serving real coffee, cake & icecream. A bike shop and workshop. Great quality bikes…
Beechenhurst, managed by Forestry England, lies in the heart of the Forest of Dean, and is a great… Beechenhurst, managed by Forestry England, lies in the heart of the Forest of Dean, and is a great place to start your forest adventure. Trail, play area, picnic spots, Go…
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.
Clay shooting, air rifle, archery tuition with friendly, experienced instructors; beginners,… Clay shooting, air rifle, archery tuition with friendly, experienced instructors; beginners, stag/hen parties, corporate events, & private shooting parties. On-site catering.
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…
Way2Go Adventures is a family-run business offering exciting outdoor activities such as Canoeing,… Way2Go Adventures is a family-run business offering exciting outdoor activities such as Canoeing, Kayaking, Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP) and Gorge Walking in the Wye Valley…
Mallards Pike Café overlooks the beautiful lake. Our friendly café prides itself on serving the… Mallards Pike Café overlooks the beautiful lake. Our friendly café prides itself on serving the best coffee as well as fresh homemade lunches, cakes & snacks.
Step into a world of myth and mystery at the brand-new Indoor Adventure Golf. Inspired by the… Step into a world of myth and mystery at the brand-new Indoor Adventure Golf. Inspired by the legends of King Arthur and Merlin’s magic -it’s a twelve-hole quest.
16 century riverside inn offering high quality food and comfortable accommodation situated in the… 16 century riverside inn offering high quality food and comfortable accommodation situated in the Wye Valley gorge where it meets the Forest of Dean in the idyllic village of…
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…
Stay on site at the popular attraction Puzzlewood and enjoy unlimited access to the woods outside… Stay on site at the popular attraction Puzzlewood and enjoy unlimited access to the woods outside of normal hours with direct access from the cottages. Kids love feeding our…
As a family we have run our Adventure centre on the East bank of the river Wye since 1987. We… As a family we have run our Adventure centre on the East bank of the river Wye since 1987. We specialise in Canoe Hire from an hour to multiple day trips and everything in…
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…
Mined since the 1800s, the colliery gives you a unique opportunity to learn about the ancient and… Mined since the 1800s, the colliery gives you a unique opportunity to learn about the ancient and fascinating tradition of freemining in the safe hands of an expert freeminer.
A popular picnic site with picnic tables, an easy access path and a paddling area A popular picnic site with picnic tables, an easy access path and a paddling area
Outdoor Training and Adventure in the Wye Valley & South Wales Borderlands. Climbing, Caving,… Outdoor Training and Adventure in the Wye Valley & South Wales Borderlands. Climbing, Caving, Archery, Bushcraft, Navigation Training and more
Select a Timeframe:
Date From:
Date To:
Dates:
24th Feb 2026 - 31st Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
4th Apr 2026
Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari in spring Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari in spring
Dates:
24th Feb 2026 - 31st Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
13th Mar 2026
Spring and Summer Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari (daytime) Spring and Summer Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari (daytime)
Dates:
15th Mar 2026 - 15th Mar 2026
Celebrate Mothers Day in Timeless Surroundings Celebrate Mothers Day in Timeless Surroundings
Dates:
4th Apr 2026 - 4th Apr 2026
Browse a variety of independent and local traders while you enjoy live music from Silurian and… Browse a variety of independent and local traders while you enjoy live music from Silurian and Venus Levan. For your little ones, there will also be free facepainting and a…
Event Dates:
17th May 2026 - 17th May 2026
Live music every Sunday at the Bandstand in Ross-on-Wye. Free for all to…
View Event
Event Dates:
14th Jun 2026 - 14th Jun 2026
Market for anyone who loves high-quality street food, artisan bakes, and…
View Event
Event Dates:
29th Nov 2026 - 29th Nov 2026
Kick off Christmas shopping by exploring over 80 stalls! Grab some lunch…
View Event
Event Dates:
27th Jan 2026 - 31st Oct 2026
Join Witch and her friends on a spellbinding family adventure through the…
View Event
Event Dates:
7th Mar 2026 - 7th Mar 2026
Join us at 11am on Saturday 7th of March 2026 for a hands on Potter’s…
View Event
Event Dates:
7th Mar 2026 - 7th Mar 2026
Join us at 2pm on Saturday 7th of March 2026 for a hands on Potter’s Wheel…
View Event
Event Dates:
13th Mar 2026 - 13th Mar 2026
Join us at 11am on Friday 13th of March 2026 for a hands on Potter’s Wheel…
View Event
Event Dates:
14th Mar 2026 - 15th Mar 2026
Become the King or Queen of Chepstow Castle by decorating your very own…
View Event
Event Dates:
14th Mar 2026 - 14th Mar 2026
Escape to the country and spend a whole day learning how to make pottery…
View Event
Event Dates:
14th Mar 2026 - 14th Mar 2026
Escape to the country and spend a whole day learning how to make pottery…
View Event
Event Dates:
15th Mar 2026 - 15th Mar 2026
Mother's Day Unique Pottery and Food Experience
View Event
Event Dates:
18th Mar 2026 - 18th Mar 2026
Escape to the country and spend a whole day learning how to make pottery…
View EventEnjoy a Fixed Price feast? Two courses for £20 or indulge yourself with three courses for only £24 Enjoy a Fixed Price feast? Two courses for £20 or indulge yourself with three courses for only £24
Prices from:
£40.00
Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean
Prices from:
£35.00
Three quarter day canoe trip - Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat Three quarter day canoe trip - Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat
Prices from:
£35.00
Half day canoe trip - Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat Half day canoe trip - Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat
Prices from:
£35.00
1 day canoe trip - Ross-on-Wye to Symonds Yat 1 day canoe trip - Ross-on-Wye to Symonds Yat
Duration: 4 Days 3 Nights
Enjoy an arty weekend in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley with sculpture trails, galleries, creative… Enjoy an arty weekend in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley with sculpture trails, galleries, creative workshops, and inspiring places to visit.
Duration: 5 Days 4 Nights
A 5-day arty mid-week break exploring sculpture trails, galleries, Tintern Abbey, and creative… A 5-day arty mid-week break exploring sculpture trails, galleries, Tintern Abbey, and creative spots in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
Ride world-class downhill trails at the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre. From flowy blues to… Ride world-class downhill trails at the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre. From flowy blues to double-black descents, experience mountain biking at its best in the Forest of Dean.
Looking for a safe, scenic and fun day out on two wheels? The Colliers Trail is a 9-mile circular… Looking for a safe, scenic and fun day out on two wheels? The Colliers Trail is a 9-mile circular off-road route through the Forest of Dean - perfect for families, beginners…
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.
From forests that inspired Tolkien and Rowling to trails that bring storybooks to life, discover the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley's rich literary heritage.
Find the perfect Christmas gift with local experiences, creative days out and unforgettable adventures across the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
Read morePlan a festive or winter getaway in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley. Discover cosy stays, scenic walks, Christmas markets, and seasonal adventures.
Read moreDiscover top Bonfire Night 2025 fireworks displays in and around the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley. Check timings and details before attending.
Read more