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
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.
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.
Families | Groups | Nature | Arts | History | Accessible
Newent Library
Gloucestershire Libraries offer free, inclusive community spaces to read, learn, work and connect,… Gloucestershire Libraries offer free, inclusive community spaces to read, learn, work and connect, supporting wellbeing, creativity and digital skills.
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.
Prices from:
£70.00
Superb contemporary open-plan apartments opening out onto stunning valley views. Walk straight into… Superb contemporary open-plan apartments opening out onto stunning valley views. Walk straight into the Forest of Dean. Explore Symonds Yat Rock and the Wye Valley.
Foodies | Accessible | Families | Dogs | Groups | Relaxation
Harts Barn Cookery School
Learn new skills at Harts Barn Cookery School in the Forest of Dean, with hands-on cookery courses,… Learn new skills at Harts Barn Cookery School in the Forest of Dean, with hands-on cookery courses, baking workshops and inspiring food experiences.
Families
Dryslade Farm Bed & Breakfast
Relaxed and friendly hospitality on a working farm near Symonds Yat and the Forest of Dean, ideal… Relaxed and friendly hospitality on a working farm near Symonds Yat and the Forest of Dean, ideal for walking and cycling. Restful lounge, large garden and spacious…
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…
Dogs | Families | Nature | Relaxation
Wenchford
A popular picnic site with picnic tables, an easy access path and a paddling area A popular picnic site with picnic tables, an easy access path and a paddling area
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.
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
Families | Groups | Nature | 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.
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…
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 | 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…
Families | Foodies | Dogs
Tudor Farmhouse Hotel
13th Century 4* Boutique Farmhouse Hotel with 20 en-suite bedrooms and AA 2 Rosette Restaurant. 13th Century 4* Boutique Farmhouse Hotel with 20 en-suite bedrooms and AA 2 Rosette Restaurant.
Events awarded Forest of Dean
Select a Timeframe:
Date From:
Date To:
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
Forest of Dean Autumn Half Marathon
Dates:
13th Sept 2026 - 13th Sept 2026
Aiming for a PB in your half marathon, or wanting to do more trail running, join the Forest of Dean… Aiming for a PB in your half marathon, or wanting to do more trail running, join the Forest of Dean Autumn Half to take in gorgeous views while you run!
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
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
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…
View Event
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
View Event
Foodies
Cheese & A Local Brew
Event Dates:
4th Jul 2026 - 26th Sept 2026
Next Event Date:
22nd 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:
3rd Sept 2026
Throw pizza plates on the pottery wheel, then enjoy wood-fired pizza from…
View Event
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)
View Event
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
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, 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
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
Read more
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.
Read more
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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