Dogs
Autumn colour 2026 forecast
Post date:
27th October 2026
Peak autumn colour in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is due late October to early November 2026. Ed Drewitt on where and when.
- 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
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
Dean Forest Cycles
Cycle Trail, Mountain & Road Bike Hire centre situated in Parkend. A Cafe, serving coffee, cake &… Cycle Trail, Mountain & Road Bike Hire centre situated in Parkend. A Cafe, serving coffee, cake & ice cream. A bike shop and workshop.
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.
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 | Families
The Lamproom Cafe at Clearwell Caves
The Lamproom Cafe sits above ground and is the only marker for adventures taking place below. With… The Lamproom Cafe sits above ground and is the only marker for adventures taking place below. With homemade sandwiches, delicious cakes, leaf teas and all your favourite…
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:
£543.00
Families | Groups | Accessible | Dogs
Forest Barns
5 Luxury Cottages in Private Hamlet | Book One or All | Hot Tubs & Log Fires | Civil Cermony Inside… 5 Luxury Cottages in Private Hamlet | Book One or All | Hot Tubs & Log Fires | Civil Cermony Inside or Out | Child and Pet friendly | Event Spaces
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…
Adventure | Families | 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…
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
Severnside Press B&B
Three-room B&B in Newnham-on-Severn, on the edge of Forest of Dean, with breakfast included,… Three-room B&B in Newnham-on-Severn, on the edge of Forest of Dean, with breakfast included, dog-friendly rooms and direct bookings
Families | Groups | Arts | History | Accessible
Coleford Library
Coleford Library offers free access to information and shared spaces to work, learn and connect,… Coleford Library offers free access to information and shared spaces to work, learn and connect, helping people build skills and confidence.
Adventure | Families | Groups
Wye Adventures
We are the place to come to for your Wye Valley Outdoor Experiences; canoes, kayaks, SUP boards,… We are the place to come to for your Wye Valley Outdoor Experiences; canoes, kayaks, SUP boards, climbing, bushcraft, survival, gorge scrambling, archery and more.
Families | Groups
Bells Hotel and Country Club
Bells Hotel and Country Club is based on the outskirts of Coleford Town Centre; a perfect location… Bells Hotel and Country Club is based on the outskirts of Coleford Town Centre; a perfect location for outdoor pursuits, cycling, walking, canoeing and hiking in the Forest…
Adventure | Families | Groups | Accessible | Dogs | Foodies
Pedalabikeaway
Pedalabikeaway is where forest adventures start. For families, cyclists, walkers & outdoor lovers… Pedalabikeaway is where forest adventures start. For families, cyclists, walkers & outdoor lovers of all ages come to explore. Visit our café & bike hire.
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
Select a Timeframe:
Date From:
Date To:
Adventure | Families | Nature
Autumn Safari in the Forest of Dean (daytime…
Dates:
11th Oct 2026 - 1st Nov 2026
Next Event Date:
1st Nov 2026
Autumn Safari in the Forest of Dean (daytime guided walks) Autumn Safari in the Forest of Dean (daytime guided walks)
Families | Groups
Bonfire & Fireworks
Dates:
5th Nov 2026 - 5th Nov 2026
Westbury On Severn Young Farmers Club present their bonfire & fireworks event Westbury On Severn Young Farmers Club present their bonfire & fireworks event
Families | Groups | Nature | Arts
Festive Forest
Dates:
28th Nov 2026 - 31st Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
28th Nov 2026
Wander through our underground Festive Forest, where the woodland animals are preparing for… Wander through our underground Festive Forest, where the woodland animals are preparing for Christmas in their own special way.
Families | Foodies
Christmas Fayre
Dates:
29th Nov 2026 - 29th Nov 2026
Kick off Christmas shopping by exploring over 80 stalls! Grab some lunch from one of the hot food… Kick off Christmas shopping by exploring over 80 stalls! Grab some lunch from one of the hot food vendors to enjoy alongside variety live music and street entertainment. For…
Arts | Groups
Couples Pottery Wheel Throwing & Heart Hanger Making Evening
Event Dates:
12th Feb 2026 - 13th Feb 2027
Next Event Date:
12th Feb 2027
Romantic Pottery Making Evening
View Event
Adventure | Families | Nature
Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari (daytime)
Event Dates:
31st Jul 2026 - 16th Mar 2027
Next Event Date:
20th Nov 2026
Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari (daytime)
View Event
Adventure | Families | Groups
Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari
Event Dates:
2nd Aug 2026 - 31st Mar 2027
Next Event Date:
15th Nov 2026
Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari
View Event
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
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Families | Groups | Arts
Afternoon Tea & Pottery Experience
Event Dates:
27th Aug 2026 - 2nd Apr 2027
Next Event Date:
7th Mar 2027
Combine food, pottery making & pottery painting
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Arts | Groups
One Day Wheel Throwing Workshop
Event Dates:
4th Sept 2026 - 25th Mar 2027
Next Event Date:
12th Nov 2026
A full day of wheel throwing at Hot Pot Pottery, Forest of Dean. Your own…
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Groups | Arts
Your World, Our Eyes - Photography Exhibition
Event Dates:
12th Sept 2026 - 28th Nov 2026
Photography exhibition by Forest of Dean Camera Club
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Dogs | Families | Foodies
Fun & Friendly Pub Quiz in the Forest of Dean
Event Dates:
16th Sept 2026 - 11th Nov 2026
Next Event Date:
11th Nov 2026
After a day exploring the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, unwind with our…
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Families | Arts | Groups
Pasta & Pottery Experience
Event Dates:
15th Oct 2026 - 18th Feb 2027
Next Event Date:
20th Nov 2026
Combine Pottery Making with Food
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Adventure | Dogs | Families
Go Ape Forest of Dean’s Sundown Adventures - Ziplines at Night
Event Dates:
16th Oct 2026 - 8th Nov 2026
Sundown Adventures – Get glowing, Go Ape at Night!
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Adventure | Families | Groups
October Half Term at Go Ape Forest of Dean
Event Dates:
24th Oct 2026 - 1st Nov 2026
October Half Term family days out at Go Ape Forest of Dean
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Families | Adventure | Groups
Halloween Half Term at Puzzlewood
Event Dates:
24th Oct 2026 - 1st Nov 2026
Halloween kids trail in Puzzlewood, Forest of Dean
View EventExperiences Awarded Forest of Dean
Prices from:
£480.00
Adventure | Families | Groups
Christmas Traitors Experience
Looking for a Christmas party with a difference? Gather your team and step into an evening of… Looking for a Christmas party with a difference? Gather your team and step into an evening of deception, deduction and festive fun at The Red Hart Inn.
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:
£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:
£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
A one-day Sex Education road trip through the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Six filming locations,… A one-day Sex Education road trip through the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Six filming locations, from Otis's house to Wintour's Leap and a river cruise.
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, from flowy blues to double-black descents, experience mountain… Ride world-class downhill trails, 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
Discounted price per person for group bookings: Discounted price per person for group bookings:
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
Our latest Forest of Dean blogs
Five family activities for half term in the Forest of Dean, from meeting the Gruffalo at Beechenhurst to Halloween clues on the Room on the Broom trail.
Read more
Discover the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley with photographer Richard Giles. From his favourite places to top photography tips.
Read more
Through the Local Lens: with photographer and videographer Tristan Shipley. See why he loves the Forest of Dean, top tips and must visit places.
Read moreStay up to date
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