
Why the Forest of Dean is the perfect prescription to de-stress and unwind
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.
In the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley
If it’s nature you’re after, you’ve come to the right place. The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is one of the most naturally rich and scenic destinations in the UK - home to ancient woodland, wildflower meadows, river valleys, lakes, and panoramic viewpoints a plenty.
Whether you're here to spot wildlife, take in the seasonal changes, or simply enjoy the peace that comes with time outdoors, you’ll find countless ways to connect with the natural world. From easy-access nature trails and RSPB reserves, to stargazing spots and guided wildlife walks, this is a landscape that rewards slowing down and looking closer.
In this section, you’ll find a handpicked collection of accommodation, experiences, attractions and places to eat that help you stay close to nature - from off-grid retreats and eco-stays to outdoor cafés and activity providers that celebrate the beauty of the landscape around them.
Explore below and plan a visit that puts nature first - whether you're wandering through bluebells, watching wild boar at dusk, or simply listening to birdsong from your cabin doorstep.
Ryeford Ponds Glamping is sited on a spacious, 6-acre paddock in a sheltered valley with woodlands,… Ryeford Ponds Glamping is sited on a spacious, 6-acre paddock in a sheltered valley with woodlands, meadows and ponds. With only 2 fully set-up and furnished bell tents,…
Internationally renowned viewpoint with fantastic views over the Wye Valley. A car park, cafe and… Internationally renowned viewpoint with fantastic views over the Wye Valley. A car park, cafe and shop are nearby and there are woodland walks all around including down to…
A heathland restoration project, Tidenham Chase offers great walks and stunning views and is close… A heathland restoration project, Tidenham Chase offers great walks and stunning views and is close to the Offa's Dyke Path and the Devil's Pulpit viewpoint.
This medieval hunting park covering survives intact as the Forest Commission's Chepstow Park Wood.… This medieval hunting park covering survives intact as the Forest Commission's Chepstow Park Wood. The wood is 7 km north-west of Chepstow Castle and was originally used by…
Enjoy a cruise on the River Wye through the beautiful Wye Valley from Symonds Yat East. Sit back,… Enjoy a cruise on the River Wye through the beautiful Wye Valley from Symonds Yat East. Sit back, enjoy the scenery and relax. Dogs welcome. Group bookings with onboard…
A stunning section of the Wye Valley Walk high above the River Wye with some of the most impressive… A stunning section of the Wye Valley Walk high above the River Wye with some of the most impressive views along the Wye Valley. The thundering Cleddon Falls are the biggest…
Mallards Pike Cafe overlooks the lake. Our friendly cafe prides itself on serving the best coffee… Mallards Pike Cafe overlooks the lake. Our friendly cafe prides itself on serving the best coffee as well as fresh homemade lunches, cakes & snacks.
May Hill is one of the most familiar landmarks in the Forest of Dean and at 296 metres (971 feet)… May Hill is one of the most familiar landmarks in the Forest of Dean and at 296 metres (971 feet) it offers wonderful views and is an ideal spot to view the sunrise and…
We offer a full range of floristry and floral design services – from gift bouquets to weddings,… We offer a full range of floristry and floral design services – from gift bouquets to weddings, funeral tributes to events. Our floral arrangements are romantic, cottage…
When Admiral Lord Nelson visited the site in 1802 he described it as one of the most beautiful… When Admiral Lord Nelson visited the site in 1802 he described it as one of the most beautiful places he had ever seen.
We are the Museum of the Forest of Dean. Learn about the history of the area, visit our Museum,… We are the Museum of the Forest of Dean. Learn about the history of the area, visit our Museum, explore the Gruffalo woodland trail and playground.
Nagshead is an RSPB Nature Reserve, the largest in the Forest of Dean. It is an ideal spot for… Nagshead is an RSPB Nature Reserve, the largest in the Forest of Dean. It is an ideal spot for birdwatching and wildlife spotting with woodland walks, ponds and hides.
Ed and Liz Drewitt - husband and wife team offer guided wildlife-watching in and around the Forest… Ed and Liz Drewitt - husband and wife team offer guided wildlife-watching in and around the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
Black Rock is on the Monmouthshire coastline of the Severn Estuary between the two Severn bridges… Black Rock is on the Monmouthshire coastline of the Severn Estuary between the two Severn bridges with fantastic panoramic views of the estuary and both bridges.
A spacious campsite and caravan park with glamping pods nestled among majestic oaks, stunning… A spacious campsite and caravan park with glamping pods nestled among majestic oaks, stunning copper beech and tall pine trees. Located on the edge of the Forest of Dean,…
Blaize Bailey is a viewpoint looking over a horseshoe bend in the River Severn and on a fine day,… Blaize Bailey is a viewpoint looking over a horseshoe bend in the River Severn and on a fine day, you will be able to see Gloucester Cathedral, Newnham and the Cotswold Hills.
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Date From:
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Dates:
25th Oct 2025 - 25th Oct 2025
On our autumn forages you will be accompanied by fungi experts, Eric, Kerry or Marlow. On our autumn forages you will be accompanied by fungi experts, Eric, Kerry or Marlow.
Dates:
12th Oct 2025 - 12th Oct 2025
This is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and to create memories through words,… This is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and to create memories through words, sketches and doodles whilst your small group is expertly guided.
Dates:
4th Oct 2025 - 4th Oct 2025
On our autumn forages you will be accompanied by fungi experts, Eric, Kerry or Marlow. On our autumn forages you will be accompanied by fungi experts, Eric, Kerry or Marlow.
Dates:
23rd May 2025 - 31st Aug 2025
A subterranean sculpture show like no other – 60 world-class artists explore colour beneath the… A subterranean sculpture show like no other – 60 world-class artists explore colour beneath the Forest of Dean
Event Dates:
26th Aug 2025 - 26th Aug 2025
Roaming Reptiles will be bringing an impressive selection of animals from…
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Event Dates:
19th Aug 2025 - 19th Aug 2025
Roaming Reptiles will be bringing an impressive selection of animals from…
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Event Dates:
12th Aug 2025 - 12th Aug 2025
Roaming Reptiles will be bringing an impressive selection of animals from…
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Event Dates:
5th Aug 2025 - 5th Aug 2025
Roaming Reptiles will be bringing an impressive selection of animals from…
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Event Dates:
25th Jul 2025 - 25th Jul 2025
Make your own bug box to take home to your garden.
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Event Dates:
23rd Jul 2025 - 23rd Jul 2025
Enjoy a guided woodland walk as well as activities Monday-Friday over the…
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Event Dates:
22nd Jul 2025 - 22nd Jul 2025
Roaming Reptiles will be bringing an impressive selection of animals from…
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Event Dates:
22nd Jul 2025 - 22nd Jul 2025
Roaming Reptiles will be bringing an impressive selection of animals from…
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Event Dates:
18th Oct 2025 - 18th Oct 2025
A running race that takes you on a wonderful journey through the Forest of…
View EventFree llama walk when you book a 4 night stay in the shepherds hut Free llama walk when you book a 4 night stay in the shepherds hut
Prices from:
£179.99
Half Day farm experience including meeting the pigs and cows, a llama pamper session and an… Half Day farm experience including meeting the pigs and cows, a llama pamper session and an afternoon tea.
Prices from:
£249.99
Farm experience and animal enrichment, providing a unique, hands on opportunity to interact with… Farm experience and animal enrichment, providing a unique, hands on opportunity to interact with our rescued and resident animals.
Prices from:
£69.99
Our 1 hour pig enrichment provides a unique, hands on opportunity to interact with our rescued pigs… Our 1 hour pig enrichment provides a unique, hands on opportunity to interact with our rescued pigs here at Briery Hill Llamas before enjoying a cream tea.
Prices from:
£59.99
Our 1 hour pig enrichment provides a unique, hands on opportunity to interact with our rescued pigs… Our 1 hour pig enrichment provides a unique, hands on opportunity to interact with our rescued pigs here at Briery Hill Llamas.
Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just fancy a pootle through peaceful countryside, the Forest… Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just fancy a pootle through peaceful countryside, the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley offers something for everyone on two wheels.
Distance 0.75 - 3 miles
Downloadable routes and insider tips for 12 gentle walks across the Forest of Dean and Wye… Downloadable routes and insider tips for 12 gentle walks across the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley—perfect for families and casual strollers.
Duration: 1 Hour
Distance 2.2 Miles
Explore Ross-on-Wye with this easy riverside and town walk. Discover historic landmarks, the River… Explore Ross-on-Wye with this easy riverside and town walk. Discover historic landmarks, the River Wye, The Prospect gardens and independent shops along the way.
Follow the Film & TV Trail in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Visit real filming locations from… Follow the Film & TV Trail in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Visit real filming locations from Star Wars, Harry Potter, Sex Education, Merlin and more. Discover why film…
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 moreDiscover five favourite dog friendly pubs and 'proper' walks from the stunning Symonds Yat Rock Lodge.
Read moreEverything, you need to know about canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding on the stunning River Wye at Symonds Yat West!
Read more