Through The Local Lens: James Kelly-Smith
Through the Local Lens: Discover the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley with photographerJames Kelly-Smith. Hidden gems and local insights.
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.
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.
Leaf Creative is the place to go to find fabulous & unusual plant specimens that can inject instant… Leaf Creative is the place to go to find fabulous & unusual plant specimens that can inject instant structure, colour & texture into your garden. We pride ourselves on…
Prices from:
£120.00
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…
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…
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…
David Broadbent Photography produces cutting edge and on trend work in stills, video, drone and… David Broadbent Photography produces cutting edge and on trend work in stills, video, drone and time-lapse to communicate your business message effectively with over 30 years…
Exceptional Coffee At The Forest Of Dean's Most Spectacular Beauty Spot Exceptional Coffee At The Forest Of Dean's Most Spectacular Beauty Spot
Mallards Pike Café overlooks the beautiful lake. Our friendly café prides itself on serving the… Mallards Pike Café overlooks the beautiful lake. Our friendly café prides itself on serving the best coffee as well as fresh homemade lunches, cakes & snacks.
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
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.…
Walk with butterflies at the Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo. Walk with butterflies at the Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo.
Experience one of our Guardian-recommended eco-retreats at our beautiful site overlooking the Wye… Experience one of our Guardian-recommended eco-retreats at our beautiful site overlooking the Wye Valley. Unwind with yoga, forest bathing, eco spa and holistic therapies.…
Prices from:
£60.00
Located on the edge of the Forest of Dean, Bracelands campsite is open all year, allowing you to… Located on the edge of the Forest of Dean, Bracelands campsite is open all year, allowing you to embrace nature’s best surroundings whenever you like.
Discover the Wonder of Under! These atmospheric ancient mines at Clearwell Caves are an exciting… Discover the Wonder of Under! These atmospheric ancient mines at Clearwell Caves are an exciting underground world for the whole family to discover.
Bracelands campsite is open all year, allowing you to embrace nature’s best surroundings whenever… Bracelands campsite is open all year, allowing you to embrace nature’s best surroundings whenever you like. When you enter the grounds of Bracelands campsite, you’ll be…
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.
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Dates:
3rd Oct 2026 - 3rd Oct 2026
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:
24th Oct 2026 - 24th Oct 2026
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:
5th Nov 2025 - 31st Dec 2025
Join Stick Man for his winter forest adventure at Beechenhurst. It's the perfect way to celebrate… Join Stick Man for his winter forest adventure at Beechenhurst. It's the perfect way to celebrate the festive season together with friends and family.
Dates:
29th Nov 2025 - 29th Nov 2025
Christmas Cafe with Llamas and handmade local gifts Christmas Cafe with Llamas and handmade local gifts
Event Dates:
5th Dec 2025 - 31st Dec 2025
Wander through our underground Festive Forest, where the woodland animals…
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Event Dates:
6th Dec 2025 - 6th Dec 2025
Enjoy an evening stargazing with Jim on the hill at Tudor Farmhouse Hotel.…
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Event Dates:
13th Dec 2025 - 13th Dec 2025
Venture out on this winter evening safari just before dusk to watch for…
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Event Dates:
10th Jan 2026 - 10th Jan 2026
We've teamed up with Ed Drewitt, naturalist, broadcaster and wildlife…
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Event Dates:
24th Jan 2026 - 24th Jan 2026
Enjoy an evening stargazing with Jim on the hill at Tudor Farmhouse Hotel.…
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Event Dates:
7th Feb 2026 - 7th Feb 2026
We've teamed up with Ed Drewitt, naturalist, broadcaster and wildlife…
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Event Dates:
21st Mar 2026 - 21st Mar 2026
Enjoy an evening stargazing with Jim on the hill at Tudor Farmhouse Hotel.…
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Event Dates:
28th Mar 2026 - 28th Mar 2026
We've teamed up with Ed Drewitt, naturalist, broadcaster and wildlife…
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Event Dates:
2nd May 2026 - 2nd May 2026
We've teamed up with Ed Drewitt, naturalist, broadcaster and wildlife…
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Event Dates:
16th May 2026 - 16th May 2026
We've teamed up with Ed Drewitt, naturalist, broadcaster and wildlife…
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Event Dates:
13th Jun 2026 - 13th Jun 2026
We've teamed up with Ed Drewitt, naturalist, broadcaster and wildlife…
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Event Dates:
19th Jul 2026 - 19th Jul 2026
This is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and to…
View EventSummer hols special 15% OFF Monday to Friday Summer hols special 15% OFF Monday to Friday
Prices from:
£40.00
Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari, experience the wonders of nature on a captivating journey… Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari, experience the wonders of nature on a captivating journey through the ancient woodlands of the Forest of Dean.
Prices from:
£40.00
Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari, discover all kinds of mighty and mysterious creatures. Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari, discover all kinds of mighty and mysterious creatures.
Prices from:
£40.00
Experience Early Morning Bird Song, theres no sweeter or more harmonious way to begin the day with… Experience Early Morning Bird Song, theres no sweeter or more harmonious way to begin the day with the dawn chorus or morning birdsong.
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.
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…
Through the Local Lens: Discover the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley with photographerJames Kelly-Smith. Hidden gems and local insights.
Plan a festive or winter getaway in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley. Discover cosy stays, scenic walks, Christmas markets, and seasonal adventures.
Read moreThrough the Local Lens: Discover the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley with photographer Paul Bennell. Hidden gems and local stories.
Read moreDiscover the best places for autumn colours in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley with our leaf peeping guide, tips, and local highlights.
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