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Dig out the picnic blanket, get the family together and enjoy a day out in the great outdoors, and of course some sandwiches! The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley has many fantastic picnic sites for you. From forest locations to riverside spots with gorgeous views, castle grounds to hilltops and lakes to heritage sites there are a wealth of locations to set down your picnic and take some time out from your activities here. Plus don't forget our farm shops and delis for that all important local produce, many even provide ready made picnic hampers for that extra special treat.
Beechenhurst is the perfect rain or shine picnic location, with plenty of outdoor space to enjoy in the sunshine and indoor space just in case it rains. In the heart of the Forest, the centre is close to the Sculpture Trail and has a play area, cafe, shop, toilets and an exciting climbing tower. There are in-situ BBQ facilities too.
Cannop Ponds has a large grass area to spread out your picnic blankets close to these lovely ponds but there are several other spots nearby too. The ponds themselves are picturesque and are home to lots of wildlife including ducks, swans and even dragonflies.
The Kymin with its roundhouse atop a hill was built in the 18th century by the gentry of Monmouth as a banqueting house at this viewpoint overlooking the town. It's still a great place to picnic.
Mallards Pike Lake is one of the best picnic spots in the South West. It consists of a series of lovely lakes and is a popular attraction for walking, cycling and other adventure activities. With hot and cold refreshments on site and even BBQ facilities available Mallards Pike is a great location for a picnic too.
Symonds Yat Rock is a Forestry England site and an internationally renowned viewpoint overlooking the River Wye and has many places to explore and to enjoy picnics. Below it are Symonds Yat East and West, two separate villages on either side of the Wye with pubs and cafes and riverside walking routes.
See all the Picnic Spots in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley:
Number of results: 25
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Cliffords Mesne
May Hill is one of the most familiar landmarks for many miles around, with its near circular mound and crowning clump of trees. It offers wonderful views and is an ideal spot to view the sunrise and sunset over the forest, hills and valleys all around.
Nr Cinderford
The history of the Forest from the Ice Age to present day; the Gruffalo woodland trail, a reconstructed Forester's cottage; a charcoal burner's camp; a woodland playground; cafe & gift shop.
Coleford
A site not to be missed by anyone interested in industrial archelogy - in the 19th century some of the most important developments of the iron and steel industry took place here.
Cinderford
A haven for wildlife and the surrounding paths are suitable for the less able and wheelchair users
Cinderford
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.
Chepstow
A stunning section of the Wye Valley Walk high above the River Wye with some of the most impressive views along the Wye Valley. The thundering Cleddon Falls are the biggest in the area and the Duchess Ride Viewpoint is one of the best.
Chepstow
Chepstow Park is a large block of woodland with both mature broadleaf and conifer species
Newent
Large picturesque lake surrounded by park not far from the centre of Newent town.
LYDNEY
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
BLAKENEY
A popular picnic site with picnic tables, an easy access path and a paddling area
Chepstow
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 historic village of Lancaut, through the Nature Reserve and back up the other side.
An arboretum full of unusual and interesting trees in the heart of the Forest of Dean
Chepstow
Breathtaking views of the Wye Valley and River Severn from the Eagle's Nest at the top of a steep, wooded limestone cliff.
Coleford
Beechenhurst lies in the heart of the forest, and is a great place to start your adventure. Discover the Gruffalo Spotters Trail, the Sculpture Trail, play area, Go Ape, cafe and climbing tower.
Caldicot
Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Castle's exciting past. Caldicot Castle's impressive structure is surrounded by an idyllic 55 acre Country Park. Free entry.
LYDNEY
Formerly the site of the New Fancy coal mine, the old spoil heap now provides spectacular views across the Forest
Chepstow
Historic path along cliffs overlooking the River Wye popular during the Wye Tour. Part of the Wye Valley Walk north of Chepstow and leading to the Eagle's Nest Viewpoint.
Monmouth
The nation's favourite river, flowing through some of the most beautiful lowland scenery in Britain.
Nr Chepstow
A Visitor Centre with exhibitions, activities, refreshments & local information.
Coleford
4.5 mile long woodland Sculpture Trail. Walk underneath a stained glass window hung high in the tree canopy and discover hidden places in the Forest. Free of charge and perfect for all ages.
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*Visit Dean Wye is the trading name of Forest of Dean & Wye Valley Tourism Limited.