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Forest of Dean
The Forest of Dean is one of England’s oldest and most fascinating landscapes — a place where nature, history, and creativity come together.
Tucked between the River Severn and the River Wye, the Forest of Dean is a unique corner of Gloucestershire with a character all of its own. Once a royal hunting ground, this ancient forest is now a haven for outdoor adventures, local produce, family days out, and peaceful escapes.
Steeped in myth, legend and industrial heritage, the Forest is shaped by its trees, its people, and its long history. From Iron Age forts and Roman roads to Freeminers' traditions and centuries-old villages, this is a place where the past sits alongside the present - and where every visit offers something new to discover.
Things to Do in the Forest of Dean
Whether you’re here for a short break or a longer stay, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Explore ancient woodland trails on foot or by bike, visit local attractions like Puzzlewood and Clearwell Caves, or relax at a café tucked into the trees.
The forest is home to wildlife, dark skies, and dramatic viewpoints like Symonds Yat Rock. Families love Perrygrove Railway, the Sculpture Trail, and Cannop Ponds, while adventurers can try canoeing on the River Wye or zip-lining through the trees.
There’s also a strong creative and cultural side to the Forest of Dean, from local galleries and makers to community events and performance spaces. Traditional pubs, forest food, and independent shops all add to the area’s welcoming feel.
A Place to Explore, Return To, and Share
The Forest of Dean has inspired generations of artists, filmmakers, walkers, and daydreamers — and it’s easy to see why. Whether you come for the views, the peace and quiet, or the sense of something a little bit magical, the forest leaves a lasting impression.
From quiet village lanes to bustling market towns like Coleford, Cinderford, and Lydney, the Forest of Dean invites you to slow down, look around, and make your own memories.
Businesses related to Forest of Dean
Dogs | Families | Foodies | Groups
The Red Hart Inn
A warm welcome awaits at the Red Hart Inn, a 16th-century village pub in Blaisdon. Enjoy the charm… A warm welcome awaits at the Red Hart Inn, a 16th-century village pub in Blaisdon. Enjoy the charm of a traditional inn paired with a fresh, modern menu, real ales, and a…
Dogs | Families | Foodies | Groups
Forest Of Dean & Wye Valley School Of Photography
Fun, photographic training, group guiding, photography mindfulness sessions and Photo holidays in… Fun, photographic training, group guiding, photography mindfulness sessions and Photo holidays in the heart of the forest and valley with pro photographer, David Broadbent.…
Dogs | Families | Foodies | Groups
The Cathedral Of The Forest
All Saints Church, Newland, The Cathedral of the Forest, dates back to the 1200s. This historic… All Saints Church, Newland, The Cathedral of the Forest, dates back to the 1200s. This historic church is home to the Miner's Brass a symbol of the Royal Forest of Dean.
Dogs | Families | Foodies | Groups
Tudor Farmhouse Hotel
16th Century Boutique Farmhouse Hotel with 20 en-suite bedrooms and AA 2 Rosette Restaurant. 16th Century Boutique Farmhouse Hotel with 20 en-suite bedrooms and AA 2 Rosette Restaurant.
Dogs | Families | Foodies | Groups
The Barn at Severn & Wye - Cafe and Restaurant
Eat breakfast, lunch or dinner in our stylish cafe or restaurant and enjoy a feast of daily landed… Eat breakfast, lunch or dinner in our stylish cafe or restaurant and enjoy a feast of daily landed fresh fish and seafood. We have an amazing food hall, gift shop and fish…
Dogs | Families | Foodies | Groups
Clearwell Caves
Discover the Wonder of Under! The neolithic mines at Clearwell Caves are a secret world hidden… Discover the Wonder of Under! The neolithic mines at Clearwell Caves are a secret world hidden beneath the trees – an exciting underground experience for the whole family.
Dogs | Families | Foodies | Groups
River Wye Canoe Hire
Ross on Wye Canoe Hire, based in Symonds Yat West in the heart of the Wye valley is one of the UK's… Ross on Wye Canoe Hire, based in Symonds Yat West in the heart of the Wye valley is one of the UK's leading Canoe Hire specialists with over thirty years of experience in the…
Prices from:
£650.00
Dogs | Families | Foodies | Groups
The Coach House - Newland
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…
Events awarded Forest of Dean
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Foodies
Whisky Tasting Evening
Dates:
17th Oct 2025 - 17th Oct 2025
At The Speech House Hotel, we love to bring Tasting Menus & Experiences to the Forest of Dean,… At The Speech House Hotel, we love to bring Tasting Menus & Experiences to the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire. From Gin & Whiskey, to Coffee and Wine, we’ve got your next…
Dates:
23rd May 2025 - 31st Aug 2025
A subterranean sculpture show like no other – 60 world-class artists explore colour beneath the… A subterranean sculpture show like no other – 60 world-class artists explore colour beneath the Forest of Dean
Foodies
Indian Block Printing
Dates:
8th Nov 2025 - 8th Nov 2025
Join Anna from Made at the Hut for the mindful art of Indian Block Printing. Make a tea towel or a… Join Anna from Made at the Hut for the mindful art of Indian Block Printing. Make a tea towel or a cushion cover.
Foodies
Autumn Colours Bouquet
Dates:
11th Oct 2025 - 11th Oct 2025
Join Jo from Wye Valley Flowers to make an autumn colours bouquet. Join Jo from Wye Valley Flowers to make an autumn colours bouquet.
Foodies
Hand Stitched Leather Journal
Event Dates:
13th Sept 2025 - 13th Sept 2025
Join Jen from Sew Forest of Dean to make your very own leather journal.…
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Foodies
Felting with MadeByMoDecor
Event Dates:
2nd Aug 2025 - 2nd Aug 2025
Join Mo for a 3d needle felting workshop. Mo will guide you through the…
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Foodies
Nature Journal Safari
Event Dates:
12th Oct 2025 - 12th Oct 2025
This is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and to…
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Foodies
Autumn Foraging
Event Dates:
4th Oct 2025 - 4th Oct 2025
On our autumn forages you will be accompanied by fungi experts, Eric,…
View EventExperiences Awarded Forest of Dean
Prices from:
£215.00
Adventure
1:1 Owner Driver 4x4 Off-Road Course
4x4 off road driving - use your own 4x4 for a half or full day with a professional instructor. 4x4 off road driving - use your own 4x4 for a half or full day with a professional instructor.
Prices from:
£249.00
Adventure
Full-Day Advanced 4x4 Course
Advanced 4x4 off road driving experience. Land Rovers - Defenders & Discoveries. Advanced 4x4 off road driving experience. Land Rovers - Defenders & Discoveries.
Prices from:
£35.00
Adventure
Adventure Caving
It's not your average day out. Are you ready to go beyond the tourist trail? It's not your average day out. Are you ready to go beyond the tourist trail?
Our latest Forest of Dean blogs
The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is home to a huge variety of birds throughout the year. Some are resident and can be seen in great numbers while others come here for the spring and summer, or autumn and winter.
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Explore the Forest of Dean's Hidden Heritage using two 'Hidden Heritage' apps. An exciting new way to explore the Forest of Dean using modern technology to bring historic areas to life.
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Discover how the Industrial Revolution shaped the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Explore historic mines, ironworks, and railways that played a vital role in Britain’s industrial heritage.
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