Winter: Cosy Escapes and Seasonal Delights

Winter in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is just as beautiful and inspiring as any other time of year. The low light and lack of leaves can create some breathtaking views through the trees and dramatic viewpoints open up even further. Walks through our wintery landscapes offer miles of open paths through beautiful woodland, outdoor sculpture, flowing streams, rivers and waterfalls, snowdrops and mistletoe and plenty of birdsong and wildlife.

Our history and culture is rich and varied with more castles per square mile than anywhere in the UK, underground caves and ancient ruins, art galleries and museums, theatres and cinemas, arts and crafts activities and plenty of indoor fun from cookery school classes to wine tasting for the grown ups to pottery sessions for families.

There are wellbeing experiences for indulgence and relaxation from floatation to yoga and outdoor activities for all ages from mountain biking to high ropes adventures. The fun doesn't stop here in winter and it can be a very rewarding time to getaway and get back to nature.

Then after your day of activities our pubs and cafes are ready to welcome you with warming treats, beer brewed close by and delicious local produce on the menu. Foodie breaks in winter can include gin making experiences, afternoon teas or Michelin starred restaurants and then stay overnight in a cosy hotel, log cabin or cottage for an escape from the everyday in our ancient forest and dramatic river valley.

Winter is a great season for a relaxing retreat, from a luxurious weekend away with a hot tub and log burner, to a quirky glamping experience offering something completely different or a family friendly property ideal for a break from the norm with loved ones.

Winter walks, days out, history and culture, food and drink, theatre, adrenaline filled activities and more are ready for the taking. So what are you waiting for?

Read on for our guide to making the most of the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley in winter:

Winter Walks
Winter Wellbeing
Winter Activities
History and Culture
Food and Drink
Winter Escapes
Seasonal Delights
Christmas