Nature
Through The Local Lens: Philip Jarrett
Post date:
2nd August 2026
Through the Local Lens: with photographer Philip Jarrett. 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
Accessible | Families | Dogs | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Mallards Pike
Beautiful lake in the Forest of Dean, popular for walking, with lots of picnic benches, nearby… 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.
Families | Groups | Foodies
Forest Deli Hampers & Gifts
Browse our Forest Deli gift selections or make your own by choosing your hamper style, and select… Browse our Forest Deli gift selections or make your own by choosing your hamper style, and select from any of the contents available in our Online Shop.
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.
Adventure | Families | Groups | Dogs | History
Perrygrove Railway Adventure
Family friendly visitor attraction with indoor & outdoor play areas and woodland walks. Tickets… Family friendly visitor attraction with indoor & outdoor play areas and woodland walks. Tickets include unlimited train rides all day. Dog friendly & Cafe.
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 | Dogs | Groups | History | Nature
Lydney Park Spring Gardens - Roman Temple Site
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…
Dogs | Families | Groups
Whitemead Forest Park
Stay at Whitemead Forest Park in the Forest of Dean. Enjoy glamping, cabins, camping, and lodges… Stay at Whitemead Forest Park in the Forest of Dean. Enjoy glamping, cabins, camping, and lodges with on-site leisure, dining, and woodland adventures.
Families | Groups
Stay at Lydney Park Estate
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…
Families | Groups | History
Hopewell Colliery - Working Mine and Cafe
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.
Families | Groups | Nature | Arts | History | Accessible
Cinderford Library
Visitors of all ages can discover books, ideas and new skills in a friendly, inclusive space that… Visitors of all ages can discover books, ideas and new skills in a friendly, inclusive space that supports learning, creativity and community connection.
Adventure
Newnham Private Hire
Bespoke chauffeur driven private tours of the beautiful Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Bespoke chauffeur driven private tours of the beautiful Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
Adventure | Families | Foodies | Groups
Shya’s Spice Kitchen
Authentic Pakistani cuisine, inspired by Punjabi heritage, crafted with passion and served with… Authentic Pakistani cuisine, inspired by Punjabi heritage, crafted with passion and served with warmth. Private dining, catering & culinary experiences.
Foodies
Forest Deli
The foodie hub of the Forest, this is a deli with a difference. You'll find a warm welcome and… The foodie hub of the Forest, this is a deli with a difference. You'll find a warm welcome and plenty of personality. Find out about all the delicious local food and drink we…
Prices from:
£245.00
Families | Accessible
Nuthatch Retreat
Award-winning eco-retreat of laid-back luxury - stunning views, outdoor soaking bath, beautiful… Award-winning eco-retreat of laid-back luxury - stunning views, outdoor soaking bath, beautiful garden, 4k cinema - adult stays & family getaways.
Families | Adventure | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Briery Hill Llamas
Visit our llama farm for an unforgettable llama experience and animal enrichment Visit our llama farm for an unforgettable llama experience and animal enrichment
Foodies
Saracens Head Inn
16th Century riverside Inn offering a variety of high quality food and real ales. 16th Century riverside Inn offering a variety of high quality food and real ales.
Events awarded Forest of Dean
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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!
Arts | Accessible
Sherlock Holmes - The Mystery of the Governor's…
Dates:
30th Aug 2026 - 30th Aug 2026
Join us at All Saints Church Newland as we host Jenny Wren Theatre for a comic play Join us at All Saints Church Newland as we host Jenny Wren Theatre for a comic play
Adventure | Nature | Accessible
Wild Boar Chase
Dates:
20th Sept 2026 - 20th Sept 2026
An off-road challenge with up to 51 miles of Forest tracks and Bridleways with short sections of… An off-road challenge with up to 51 miles of Forest tracks and Bridleways with short sections of quiet roads in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
Dogs | Families | Foodies | Groups
Forest Showcase Food Festival
Dates:
4th Oct 2026 - 4th Oct 2026
Join the Forest Showcase Food Festival at Speech House Hotel, Oct 5th, 10am-4pm. Local producers,… Join the Forest Showcase Food Festival at Speech House Hotel, Oct 5th, 10am-4pm. Local producers, tastings & family fun in Forest of Dean.
Families | Groups | Accessible
Treorchy Male Choir
Event Dates:
10th Oct 2026 - 10th Oct 2026
Return of the World Famous Treorchy Male Choir this Autumn
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Adventure | Families | Nature
Autumn Safari in the Forest of Dean (daytime guided walks)
Event Dates:
11th Oct 2026 - 1st Nov 2026
Next Event Date:
11th Oct 2026
Autumn Safari in the Forest of Dean (daytime guided walks)
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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Arts | Groups
One Day Wheel Throwing Workshop
Event Dates:
1st May 2026 - 5th Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
22nd Aug 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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Foodies
Cheese & A Local Brew
Event Dates:
4th Jul 2026 - 26th Sept 2026
Next Event Date:
15th Aug 2026
Cheese and Local Drink Tastings on Selected Saturdays at Forest Deli
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Families
Free Puppet Shows
Event Dates:
20th Jul 2026 - 24th Aug 2026
Next Event Date:
24th Aug 2026
Watch a traditional puppet performance by Glove Actually
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Families | Arts
Pizza & Pottery Experience
Event Dates:
30th Jul 2026 - 3rd Sept 2026
Next Event Date:
20th Aug 2026
Throw pizza plates on the pottery wheel, then enjoy wood-fired pizza from…
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Adventure | Families | Nature
Summer and Autumn Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari (daytime)
Event Dates:
31st Jul 2026 - 20th Nov 2026
Next Event Date:
24th Aug 2026
Summer and Autumn Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari (daytime)
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Adventure | Families | Groups
Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari
Event Dates:
2nd Aug 2026 - 31st Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
22nd Aug 2026
Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari
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Groups | Nature | Accessible
Forest of Dean Bird of Prey Safari
Event Dates:
2nd Aug 2026 - 11th Mar 2027
Next Event Date:
28th Feb 2027
Forest of Dean Bird of Prey Safari
View EventExperiences Awarded Forest of Dean
Prices from:
£40.00
Adventure | Families | Groups | Nature
Bird of Prey Safari Experience in the Forest of…
Experience a Bird of Prey Safari in the Forest of Dean, one of the UK’s most remarkable strongholds… Experience a Bird of Prey Safari in the Forest of Dean, one of the UK’s most remarkable strongholds for birds of prey.
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!
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
Explore three historic days out in the Wye Valley and Monmouthshire, including Tintern Abbey, Chepstow Castle and Raglan Castle, perfect for a summer break
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Find swimming pools, hot tub breaks & outdoor baths in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, from Bathurst Pool to natural swimming & group stays with pools.
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Dogs
5 Family Activities for Summer in the Forest of Dean | Forestry England
Post date:
14th July 2026
Beat the heat with five family-friendly activities in the Forest of Dean this summer, from cycling and woodland picnics to Gruffalo adventures and camping
Read moreStay up to date
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