Nature
Through The Local Lens: Mark Adams
Post date:
9th April 2026
Through the Local Lens: with photographer Mark Adams. 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.
Adventure | Families | Groups
Wye Valley Roman Miniature Golf
Challenging Miniature Golf Course. Fun and games for all, all you have to do is hit the ball! Challenging Miniature Golf Course. Fun and games for all, all you have to do is hit the ball!
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…
Adventure | Families | Groups | Dogs
Canoe the Wye Ltd
Canoe hire in the Wye Valley is the ultimate activity for those who love the outdoors. Ideal for… Canoe hire in the Wye Valley is the ultimate activity for those who love the outdoors. Ideal for families on holiday, friends seeking a challenge or groups wanting to do…
Families | Groups | Nature
Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo
Walk with butterflies at the Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo in Symonds Yat. Walk with butterflies at the Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo in Symonds Yat.
Adventure | Families | Groups | Dogs | History
Perrygrove Railway Adventure
Charming family friendly visitor attraction with indoor and outdoor play areas and woodland walks… Charming family friendly visitor attraction with indoor and outdoor play areas and woodland walks linked by heritage railway. Tickets include unlimited train rides all day.…
Families | Groups
Hidden Gems
Stay at Ardens Farm or Holly Barn – two unique countryside escapes in the Forest of Dean, perfect… Stay at Ardens Farm or Holly Barn – two unique countryside escapes in the Forest of Dean, perfect for group getaways and outdoor adventures.
Adventure | Dogs | Families | Groups
Symonds Yat Canoe Hire
With our base right on the banks of the beautiful River Wye at Symonds Yat West, in the heart of… With our base right on the banks of the beautiful River Wye at Symonds Yat West, in the heart of the stunning Wye Valley, we are in the perfect location for you to begin your…
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…
Adventure | Families | Groups | Accessible
Pedalabikeaway
Pedalabikeaway is the only Bike Hire in the Forest of Dean with direct, traffic free access to some… Pedalabikeaway is the only Bike Hire in the Forest of Dean with direct, traffic free access to some of the best mountain biking trails in the country. After your ride, visit…
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.
Dogs | Families | Foodies | Groups | Nature | Accessible
Symonds Yat Rock Cafe
Exceptional Coffee At The Forest Of Dean's Most Spectacular Beauty Spot Exceptional Coffee At The Forest Of Dean's Most Spectacular Beauty Spot
Foodies | Families
Stay at The Saracens Head Inn
16 century riverside inn offering high quality food and comfortable accommodation situated in the… 16 century riverside inn offering high quality food and comfortable accommodation situated in the Wye Valley gorge where it meets the Forest of Dean in the idyllic village of…
Prices from:
£80.00
Groups | Families
The Belfry Hotel
The Belfry Hotel - Family run pub, hotel and restaurant since Since 1992 The Belfry Hotel - Family run pub, hotel and restaurant since Since 1992
Relaxation
Float in the Forest
Floatation is a relaxation therapy where you float effortlessly on the surface of warm water… Floatation is a relaxation therapy where you float effortlessly on the surface of warm water saturated with Epsom salt. Your muscles relax and your mind can drift off.
Nature | Relaxation | Families | Groups | Accessible
Cyril Hart Arboretum
An arboretum full of unusual and interesting trees in the heart of the Forest of Dean next to the… An arboretum full of unusual and interesting trees in the heart of the Forest of Dean next to the Speech House Hotel.
Events awarded Forest of Dean
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Date From:
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Families | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari in spring
Dates:
24th Feb 2026 - 31st Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
25th Apr 2026
Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari in spring Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari in spring
Adventure | Families | Nature | Relaxation
Spring and Summer Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife…
Dates:
24th Feb 2026 - 31st Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
24th Apr 2026
Spring and Summer Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari (daytime) Spring and Summer Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari (daytime)
Groups
Pub Traitors
Dates:
23rd Apr 2026 - 23rd Apr 2026
Deception. Missions. Banishment. Can you spot the Traitors? Deception. Missions. Banishment. Can you spot the Traitors?
Groups | Dogs
Pub Quiz Night
Dates:
29th Apr 2026 - 29th Apr 2026
Fun & friendly pub quiz in glorious surroundings. Fun & friendly pub quiz in glorious surroundings.
Nature | Relaxation
Experience Early Morning Bird Song
Event Dates:
31st May 2026 - 31st May 2026
Experience Early Morning Bird Song
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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,…
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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
British big cats – the art & the science
Event Dates:
2nd Apr 2026 - 4th May 2026
Exhibition and events featuring British big cat artwork in the gallery, &…
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Families | Groups | Arts
Afternoon Tea & Pottery Experience
Event Dates:
9th Apr 2026 - 2nd Jul 2026
Next Event Date:
28th May 2026
Throw your own mugs and tea cups on the potter's wheel, paint pottery…
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Groups | History
Free Museum Gallery Tours
Event Dates:
16th Apr 2026 - 1st May 2026
Next Event Date:
21st Apr 2026
Our free guided tours run weekly during term time
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Nature | Foodies
Wild Food with Liz Knight
Event Dates:
25th Apr 2026 - 25th Apr 2026
Join Liz from Forage Fine Foods to forage and make a tincture to take home.
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Arts | Groups
Learn to paint Tea & Biscuits
Event Dates:
25th Apr 2026 - 25th Apr 2026
Tea & Biscuits-themed Paint Workshop
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Foodies
Live Fire Dining Popup @ The Apple Barn Tomahawk Steak Night
Event Dates:
25th Apr 2026 - 25th Apr 2026
Join us in the Apple Barn for quality food smoked over quality Birchwood…
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Families | Groups | Arts
'Fun Together' Mosaic Taster for Two Workshop
Event Dates:
26th Apr 2026 - 26th Apr 2026
Taster Mosaic Workshop
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Foodies | Groups | History
Indian Tasting Menu Evening
Event Dates:
30th Apr 2026 - 30th Apr 2026
Enjoy a vibrant Indian tasting evening at The Speech House featuring…
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.
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Seven Winter Wellness Weekends in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley
Post date:
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Slow down this winter with seven wellness weekend ideas in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, from forest bathing and yoga to saunas, creative retreats and seasonal food.
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