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.
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.
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.
Prices from:
£543.00
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
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.
Prices from:
£19.00
Greenacres is a peaceful, family-run campsite near Coleford with space for tents, campervans, and… Greenacres is a peaceful, family-run campsite near Coleford with space for tents, campervans, and caravans, plus glamping tents and a luxury cabin. Ideal for exploring the…
Beechenhurst, managed by Forestry England, lies in the heart of the Forest of Dean, and is a great… Beechenhurst, managed by Forestry England, lies in the heart of the Forest of Dean, and is a great place to start your forest adventure. Trail, play area, picnic spots, Go…
Way2Go Adventures is a family-run business, based in the Forest of Dean offering exciting outdoor… Way2Go Adventures is a family-run business, based in the Forest of Dean offering exciting outdoor activities such as Canoeing, Kayaking, Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP) and…
13th Century Farmhouse + AA 2 Red Rosette Restaurant for intimate meals and retreats. 13th Century Farmhouse + AA 2 Red Rosette Restaurant for intimate meals and retreats.
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.
Prices from:
£650.00
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…
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Dates:
28th Jun 2025 - 14th Sept 2025
A sculpture garden celebrating Art, Plants and Wildlife. Over 100 contemporary Sculptures set in… A sculpture garden celebrating Art, Plants and Wildlife. Over 100 contemporary Sculptures set in the beautiful Wye Valley Sculpture Garden just one mile from Tintern Abbey.
Dates:
19th Dec 2025 - 19th Dec 2025
A whole day with your own pottery wheel in our lovely rural pottery studio A whole day with your own pottery wheel in our lovely rural pottery studio
Dates:
6th Dec 2025 - 6th Dec 2025
We’ve teamed up with Jo to provide Christmas Wreath workshops so that you can create your own… We’ve teamed up with Jo to provide Christmas Wreath workshops so that you can create your own seasonal display.
Dates:
5th Dec 2025 - 5th Dec 2025
We’ve teamed up with Jo to provide Christmas Wreath workshops so that you can create your own… We’ve teamed up with Jo to provide Christmas Wreath workshops so that you can create your own seasonal display.
Event Dates:
29th Nov 2025 - 29th Nov 2025
Combine Pottery Making with Food
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Event Dates:
28th Nov 2025 - 28th Nov 2025
We’ve teamed up with Jo to provide Christmas Wreath workshops so that you…
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Event Dates:
15th Nov 2025 - 15th Nov 2025
A whole day with your own pottery wheel in our lovely rural pottery studio
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Event Dates:
8th Nov 2025 - 8th Nov 2025
Join Anna from Made at the Hut for the mindful art of Indian Block…
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Prices from:
£220.00
Get MTB Ready! Enjoy personalised intensive coaching before heading off to practice your new skills… Get MTB Ready! Enjoy personalised intensive coaching before heading off to practice your new skills on recommended trails to suit your ability.
Prices from:
£50.00
Don't worry about choosing a trail that is short enough for your dog! Hire a bike with a dog… Don't worry about choosing a trail that is short enough for your dog! Hire a bike with a dog trailer and then your dog can relax once their legs have had enough...
Prices from:
£360.00
Explore an off the beaten track personalised guided tour of Forest of Dean with local British… Explore an off the beaten track personalised guided tour of Forest of Dean with local British Cycling Mountain Bike Guide with lunch at a stunning riverside pub included.
Prices from:
£60.00
Take a self guided tour of the Colliers Trail including lakeside lunch at hidden gem, Mallards Pike Take a self guided tour of the Colliers Trail including lakeside lunch at hidden gem, Mallards Pike
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.
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.
EXCLUSIVE JUNE OFFER - 10 % OFF Remaining Glamping Breaks for stays until 25/7/2025. EXCLUSIVE JUNE OFFER - 10 % OFF Remaining Glamping Breaks for stays until 25/7/2025.
Forest of Dean Treetop Challenge: 15% off for families of 3-6! Use code FAMILY15. Sun-Fri. Forest of Dean Treetop Challenge: 15% off for families of 3-6! Use code FAMILY15. Sun-Fri.
The hidden gem that it is, The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley are great for those seeking serenity and calm, and a break from the hustle and bustle of the day-to-day.
Discover six scenic parkruns, PB-friendly routes, and family-friendly trails in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley - your next running weekend awaits.
Read moreThe Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is home to a huge variety of birds throughout the year. Some are resident and can be seen in great numbers while others come here for the spring and summer, or autumn and winter.
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