Nature
Through The Local Lens: Neil Baker
Post date:
1st July 2026
Through the Local Lens: with photographer Neil Baker. See why he loves the Forest of Dean, top tips and must visit places.
- Locations
- Forest Of Dean
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
Prices from:
£120.00
Dogs | Families | Foodies | Groups | History | Nature
The Speech House Hotel
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…
Families | Groups | Adventure | Nature | Accessible
Forest of Dean Cycle Centre
With trails for all abilities, this is the perfect place to start your cycling adventure in the… With trails for all abilities, this is the perfect place to start your cycling adventure in the Forest of Dean.
Arts | Families | Groups
Rachel Shilston - Inspiring Creativity
Relax, learn a new skill and create a memory of your stay in the Forest of Dean to treasure… Relax, learn a new skill and create a memory of your stay in the Forest of Dean to treasure forever. Perfect for couples, families and small groups looking for some quality…
Adventure | Families | Groups
Go Ape Forest of Dean
Nestled deep within the Forest of Dean are some of the best outdoor experiences and things to do.… Nestled deep within the Forest of Dean are some of the best outdoor experiences and things to do. High ropes and all-terrain Forest Segways at the ready.
Dogs | Families | Foodies | Groups
Mallards Pike Café
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.
Foodies
Cinderhill Farm
Nationally recognised producer of outstanding quality, handmade ready-to-eat foods. We seek to… Nationally recognised producer of outstanding quality, handmade ready-to-eat foods. We seek to reflect and protect the richness of the place we live and work through the food…
Prices from:
£29.00
Dogs | Families | Groups
Bracelands Camping
Bracelands Campsite is a spacious, family- and dog-friendly camping, caravan and glamping site on… Bracelands Campsite is a spacious, family- and dog-friendly camping, caravan and glamping site on the edge of the Forest of Dean. Open year-round, offering panoramic…
Families | Accessible
Gage Farm Cottages – Cowshed Cottage & The Dairy
Escape to Gage Farm – two self-catering cottages with stunning Wye Valley views, walks on the… Escape to Gage Farm – two self-catering cottages with stunning Wye Valley views, walks on the doorstep & VisitEngland 4★ Gold 2025. Book individually or together.
Adventure | Families | Groups
BattleSports Glos - Outdoor Laser Tag
Experience the thrill of outdoor laser tag at BattleSports Glos, where the excitement of paintball… Experience the thrill of outdoor laser tag at BattleSports Glos, where the excitement of paintball meets the safety and comfort of laser technology.
Adventure | Families | Groups
Wyedean Canoe & Adventure Centre
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…
Families | Groups | Accessible
Lydney Library
At Lydney Library, visitors of all ages can discover books, ideas and new skills in a friendly,… At Lydney Library, visitors of all ages can discover books, ideas and new skills in a friendly, inclusive space that supports learning, creativity and community connection.
Prices from:
£80.00
Dogs | Families | Groups
Hobbit Huts at Saltbox Escapes
Quirky hobbit-sized luxury in nature with stunning views. Two Hobbit Huts providing cosy comfort… Quirky hobbit-sized luxury in nature with stunning views. Two Hobbit Huts providing cosy comfort for couples and families in a child- and dog-friendly meadow.
Prices from:
£650.00
Business Directory
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…
Prices from:
£150.00
Dogs | Families
Resilient Woodlands Retreat
Resilient Woodlands Retreat offers two luxury log cabins nestled in ancient woodlands in the… Resilient Woodlands Retreat offers two luxury log cabins nestled in ancient woodlands in the beautiful forest of dean. Each cabin has its own totally private woodfired…
Prices from:
£19.00
Families | Dogs | Groups
Greenacres Campsite
Greenacres Campsite – Family Camping, Touring & Glamping with Bell Tents, Pod, Shepherd's Hut &… Greenacres Campsite – Family Camping, Touring & Glamping with Bell Tents, Pod, Shepherd's Hut & Luxury Cabin
Dogs | Families | Nature | Relaxation
Cannop Ponds
Picturesque ponds, home to lots of wildlife. Great picnic area and central for walks and cycle… Picturesque ponds, home to lots of wildlife. Great picnic area and central for walks and cycle paths.
Events awarded Forest of Dean
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Date From:
Date To:
Arts | Families
farOpen Summer Exhibition
Dates:
27th Jun 2026 - 12th Jul 2026
farOpen members showing in lovely cafe setting in woodland farOpen members showing in lovely cafe setting in woodland
Families | Groups | Arts
Coleford Busking Festival
Dates:
11th Jul 2026 - 11th Jul 2026
This once popular event returns to raise funds for Coleford Music Festival. Buskers will fill the… This once popular event returns to raise funds for Coleford Music Festival. Buskers will fill the streets to entertain you, whilst waiting for their slot on the town centre…
Families | Groups | Nature | History
Summer Holidays - Free Entry
Dates:
18th Jul 2026 - 30th Aug 2026
Join us this Summer Holidays for some free family fun! Join us this Summer Holidays for some free family fun!
Families | Groups | History
The Sealed Knot Battle of Coleford
Dates:
8th Aug 2026 - 9th Aug 2026
Join members of The Sealed Knot Society as they re-enact aspects of the 1643 Battle of Coleford .. Join members of The Sealed Knot Society as they re-enact aspects of the 1643 Battle of Coleford ..
Arts | Accessible
Sherlock Holmes - The Mystery of the Governor's Nose
Event Dates:
30th Aug 2026 - 30th Aug 2026
Join us at All Saints Church Newland as we host Jenny Wren Theatre for a…
View Event
Dogs | Families | Foodies
Forest Showcase Food Festival
Event Dates:
4th Oct 2026 - 4th Oct 2026
Join the Forest Showcase Food Festival at Speech House Hotel, Oct 5th,…
View Event
Families | Groups | Accessible
Treorchy Male Choir
Event Dates:
10th Oct 2026 - 10th Oct 2026
Return of the World Famous Treorchy Male Choir this Autumn
View Event
Families | Foodies
Christmas Fayre
Event Dates:
29th Nov 2026 - 29th Nov 2026
Kick off Christmas shopping by exploring over 80 stalls! Grab some lunch…
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Adventure | Families | Nature
Room on the Broom Trail at Beechenhurst
Event Dates:
27th Jan 2026 - 31st Oct 2026
Join Witch and her friends on a spellbinding family adventure through the…
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Families | Groups | Nature
Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari in spring
Event Dates:
24th Feb 2026 - 31st Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
19th Jul 2026
Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari in spring
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Adventure | Families | Nature
Spring and Summer Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari (daytime)
Event Dates:
24th Feb 2026 - 31st Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
18th Jul 2026
Spring and Summer Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari (daytime)
View Event
Arts | Groups
One Day Wheel Throwing Workshop
Event Dates:
1st May 2026 - 5th Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
31st Jul 2026
A full day of wheel throwing at Hot Pot Pottery, Forest of Dean. Your own…
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Arts | History
Beyond the Books Exhibition
Event Dates:
16th May 2026 - 30th Aug 2026
Forest of Dean Writers Collection Exhibition
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Arts
farOpen Annual Open Studios Event
Event Dates:
4th Jul 2026 - 12th Jul 2026
The farOpen Art Trail returns this July, offering a vibrant annual…
View Event
Foodies
Cheese & A Local Brew
Event Dates:
4th Jul 2026 - 26th Sept 2026
Next Event Date:
11th Jul 2026
Cheese and Local Drink Tastings on Selected Saturdays at Forest Deli
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Arts
3 Day Weekend Pottery Retreat - Summer
Event Dates:
10th Jul 2026 - 12th Jul 2026
Relax and immerse yourself in pottery and beautiful countryside
View EventExperiences Awarded Forest of Dean
Prices from:
£40.00
Adventure | Families | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean
Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean
Prices from:
£70.00
Learn how to make three alcohol free cocktails Learn how to make three alcohol free cocktails
Prices from:
£3.00
Families | Foodies | Groups | Accessible
Lunch Like a Local
Treat yourself to a freshly-prepared and authentically 'Forest' hot lunch tomorrow; with The Pie… Treat yourself to a freshly-prepared and authentically 'Forest' hot lunch tomorrow; with The Pie House at Cinderhill Farm, we've got you covered!
Relaxation
Long float
Sometimes you can’t get enough of floating! Here is your chance to go deeper into relaxation and… Sometimes you can’t get enough of floating! Here is your chance to go deeper into relaxation and explore further with a longer float.
Itineraries Awarded Forest of Dean
Families | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
A 3-Day Spring Itinerary in the Forest of Dean &…
Duration: 3 Days, 2 nights
A 3-day spring itinerary in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, including outdoor walks, local… A 3-day spring itinerary in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, including outdoor walks, local cafés, nature spots and relaxing stays.
Dogs | Families | Groups | Arts | History
An arty long weekend in the Forest of Dean & Wye…
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.
Dogs | Families | Groups | Arts | History
An arty mid week break in the Forest of Dean &…
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.
Trails In Forest of Dean
Adventure | Families
Downhill Cycling Trails
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.
A circular 4.8-mile walk from Walford Church to Wythall Estate Vineyard near Ross-on-Wye, with… A circular 4.8-mile walk from Walford Church to Wythall Estate Vineyard near Ross-on-Wye, with optional tour/tasting and stays.
History | Accessible
Thomas Blake Trail
Explore Ross-on-Wye's history through the life of one of its benefactors: Thomas Blake! Explore Ross-on-Wye's history through the life of one of its benefactors: Thomas Blake!
Explore the Coppett Hill Walk near Goodrich Castle. A 6.3-mile circular route with hilltop views,… Explore the Coppett Hill Walk near Goodrich Castle. A 6.3-mile circular route with hilltop views, woodland paths, and riverside stretches in the Wye Valley.
Offers From Forest of Dean
Solo camper discount Bracelands Campsite Solo camper discount Bracelands Campsite
10% off camping midweek at Bracelands Campsite 10% off camping midweek at Bracelands Campsite
15% Age concession rate discount for over 60's at Bracelands Campsite 15% Age concession rate discount for over 60's at Bracelands Campsite
Forest of Dean Treetop Challenge: 20% off for families of 3-6! Use code FAMILY20. Sun-Fri. Forest of Dean Treetop Challenge: 20% off for families of 3-6! Use code FAMILY20. Sun-Fri.
Our latest Forest of Dean blogs
Visit Raglan Castle this summer for Welsh history, striking towers, countryside views, falconry days and living history events.
Read more
arOpen open studios trail returns 4-12 July 2026. 127 artists, 55 venues, free entry across the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Plan your route.
Read more
Explore the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail at Beechenhurst this summer. Discover 18 outdoor artworks, woodland walks, family-friendly activities and a unique day out in Gloucestershire.
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