Dogs
5 Autumn Family Activities
Post date:
12th October 2026
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.
- Locations
- Lydney
Lydney
Gateway to the Forest of Dean
Discover Lydney
Welcome to Lydney - the gateway to the Forest of Dean.
Located on the edge of the River Severn, surrounded by rolling countryside and woodland, Lydney is a historic market town packed with charm, character, and plenty of things to do.
This lively little town is the ideal base for exploring the wider Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, while also offering its own attractions, shops, eateries, and stunning riverside walks to enjoy.
A Historic Riverside Town
Situated on the banks of the River Severn, Lydney has a rich history dating back to Roman times. The town grew during the industrial revolution, with its harbour playing a key role in transporting coal and iron from the Forest of Dean across the country. Today, Lydney’s heritage is still visible through its historic docks, town centre landmarks, and nearby archaeological sites.
At the heart of the town, you'll find a range of independent shops, cafés, and traditional pubs, offering a warm welcome to visitors.
Things to See and Do in Lydney
- Lydney Harbour: Take a stroll along the historic Lydney Harbour and enjoy sweeping views across the Severn Estuary. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for birdwatching, walking, or just sitting and watching the ever-changing tides - the Severn has the second highest tidal range in the world! Don't forget a pit stop at Hips Harbourside for a drink and bite to eat.
- Dean Forest Railway: Step back in time on the Dean Forest Railway. This heritage railway runs through beautiful woodland between Lydney and Parkend, offering a glimpse into the area's industrial past and a fantastic day out for all ages.
- Lydney Park Estate and Roman Temple: Visit one of the Forest's hidden gems. The estate is home to stunning gardens and the remains of a Roman temple complex, showcasing Lydney's ancient roots.
- Rachel Shilston - Inspiring Creativity: Get crafty with a hands on experience. From Crafternoon tea to mosaic workshops - theres fun for the whole family.
- Bathurst Park: Right in the centre of town, Bathurst Park is a beautifully maintained green space, ideal for a relaxing afternoon. There are open lawns, flowerbeds, a playground for the kids, and plenty of space for a picnic.
- Shopping and Eating: Lydney’s town centre has a mix of independent shops, cafés, pubs, and restaurants to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for local produce, a delicious lunch, or a friendly coffee stop, you’ll find a warm welcome here. Don't miss Taurus Crafts for great independent shops and activities.
- Severn Estuary Views: Take a stroll or cycle along the Severn Way and enjoy panoramic views of one of the UK's most dynamic tidal landscapes.
Events and Local Life
Lydney regularly hosts farmers’ markets, music events, and local festivals that celebrate the town’s strong community spirit. Its location makes it a great base for exploring the wider Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, offering easy access to nature reserves, cycle trails, and historic sites.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you're looking for scenic walks, historic landmarks, or a relaxing day by the water, Lydney is a perfect stop on your Forest of Dean and Wye Valley adventure. Discover the best of countryside and coast, all from one welcoming town.
Businesses related to Lydney
Arts | Families | Groups
Rachel Shilston - Inspiring Creativity
Relax, learn a new skill and create a memory of your stay in the Forest of Dean to treasure… Relax, learn a new skill and create a memory of your stay in the Forest of Dean to treasure forever. Perfect for couples, families and small groups looking for some quality…
Families | Groups | Adventure
Whitemead Forest Park Activities
Enjoy a round of woodland themed adventure golf at Whitemead Forest Park. Made up of 12 holes,… Enjoy a round of woodland themed adventure golf at Whitemead Forest Park. Made up of 12 holes, complimented with expertly crafted features such as woodland creatures, flora…
Business Directory
Taurus Crafts Cafe
The Taurus Crafts café serves delicious breakfasts, light bites and chef’s special which are made… The Taurus Crafts café serves delicious breakfasts, light bites and chef’s special which are made on site.
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 | Adventure | Groups | History
Dean Forest Railway
Journey through the medieval Forest of Dean from Lydney to Parkend on a steam train or heritage… Journey through the medieval Forest of Dean from Lydney to Parkend on a steam train or heritage diesel train service. Free parking, cafeteria, museum and gift shop at…
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.
Groups | Relaxation
The SELF Centre
The SELF Centre in Lydney offers welcoming, community-focused sauna, ice-baths and wellbeing… The SELF Centre in Lydney offers welcoming, community-focused sauna, ice-baths and wellbeing experiences in the heart of the Forest of Dean.
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
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 | Groups | Dogs | Families
Way2Go Adventures Ltd
Way2Go Adventures is a family-run business offering exciting outdoor activities such as Canoeing,… Way2Go Adventures is a family-run business offering exciting outdoor activities such as Canoeing, Kayaking, Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP) and Gorge Walking in the Wye Valley…
Prices from:
£100.00
Accessible | Families
Danby Cottage
Perfect hideaway set deep in the heart of the forest. Ideal for walks, cycling and relaxing… Perfect hideaway set deep in the heart of the forest. Ideal for walks, cycling and relaxing surrounded by nature
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 | 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…
Groups | Arts | Accessible | Families
Taurus Crafts
Taurus Crafts is a visitor centre in Gloucestershire that features artisan businesses, creative… Taurus Crafts is a visitor centre in Gloucestershire that features artisan businesses, creative workshops, and locally sourced food.
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.
Prices from:
£245.00
Families | Accessible
Nuthatch Retreat
Award-winning, architect-designed forest retreat, Level-access luxury, Japanese soaking tub,… Award-winning, architect-designed forest retreat, Level-access luxury, Japanese soaking tub, private garden, 4k cinema, celebration stays & family getaways
Events awarded Lydney
Select a Timeframe:
Date From:
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Families | Arts | Accessible | Groups
Clay Monster Workshop
Dates:
26th Oct 2026 - 26th Oct 2026
Create your own spooky clay monster and bring your imagination to life! Create your own spooky clay monster and bring your imagination to life!
Families | Arts | Accessible
Giant Disco Spiders Workshop
Dates:
27th Oct 2026 - 27th Oct 2026
Craft a sparkly, glitter-covered spider that's full of spooky disco fun! Craft a sparkly, glitter-covered spider that's full of spooky disco fun!
Families | Arts | Groups | Nature
Bat Boxes
Dates:
29th Oct 2026 - 29th Oct 2026
Build and decorate a bat box to help local wildlife and take home a perfect garden addition. Build and decorate a bat box to help local wildlife and take home a perfect garden addition.
Groups | Arts | Families
Family Fun Mosaic Taster – Halloween Special!
Dates:
29th Oct 2026 - 29th Oct 2026
Mosaic workshop for beginners Mosaic workshop for beginners
Arts | Groups
Parent & Child Paint Club – Cute Autumn Fox!
Event Dates:
30th Oct 2026 - 30th Oct 2026
Parent & Child Creativity Paint Club - Paint a Cute Autumn Fox Canvas
View Event
Families | Arts
Magic Wands and Runes
Event Dates:
30th Oct 2026 - 31st Oct 2026
Next Event Date:
30th Oct 2026
Design a magical wand and uncover the mysteries of ancient runes.
View Event
Arts | Families | Groups
Queer Nature Printmaking
Event Dates:
5th Nov 2026 - 5th Nov 2026
Decorate your own tote bag with a welcoming LGBTQIA+ community.
View Event
Groups
Robbie & Buble Festive Tribute Night
Event Dates:
27th Nov 2026 - 27th Nov 2026
Robbie & Buble Festive Tribute Night
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Families | Groups | Arts
Trio of Anti-Cutesy Christmas Decorations
Event Dates:
28th Nov 2026 - 28th Nov 2026
Trio of Anti-Cutesy Christmas Decorations
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Families | Groups | Arts
A Trio of Christmas Gonks
Event Dates:
3rd Dec 2026 - 3rd Dec 2026
A Trio of Christmas Gonks
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Foodies | Groups
Christmas Party Nights
Event Dates:
4th Dec 2026 - 18th Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
4th Dec 2026
Christmas Party Nights at The Speech House Hotel - Disco, dancing and 2…
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Groups | Arts
Mosaic Christmas Tree Workshop
Event Dates:
5th Dec 2026 - 5th Dec 2026
Mosaic Christmas Tree Workshop
View Event
Groups | Arts
Half Day - Christmas Mosaic Workshop
Event Dates:
9th Dec 2026 - 9th Dec 2026
Christmas Mosaic Tree Decorations
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Families | Arts | Groups
Learn to paint a Rudolph Christmas Workshop
Event Dates:
11th Dec 2026 - 11th Dec 2026
Christmas painting workshop
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Families | Groups | Arts
Make your pet in mosaic
Event Dates:
11th Apr 2027 - 11th Apr 2027
Mosaic workshop for pet lovers
View EventExperiences Awarded Lydney
Prices from:
£132.00
Relaxation
Bring a Friend to float
Two simultaneous one hour floats for you and your friend Two simultaneous one hour floats for you and your friend
Prices from:
£35.00
Adventure | Families | Groups | Nature | History
Adventure Caving
It's not your average day out. Are you ready to go beyond the tourist trail? It's not your average day out. Are you ready to go beyond the tourist trail?
Itineraries Awarded Lydney
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 Lydney
Dogs | Families | History | Accessible
Market Towns Trail
Explore the character, charm and community spirit of the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley’s market… Explore the character, charm and community spirit of the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley’s market towns with our self-guided Market Towns Trail. Each town on the trail offers…
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Discover the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley with photographer Richard Giles. From his favourite places to top photography tips.
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arOpen open studios trail returns 4-12 July 2026. 127 artists, 55 venues, free entry across the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Plan your route.
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