Through The Local Lens: Patrick Cal Callaby
Through the Local Lens: Discover the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley with photographer Patrick Cal Callaby and find his favourite places.
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.
Prices from:
£340.00
Our unique, dog-friendly safari lodges are the perfect spot for families, friends and couples… Our unique, dog-friendly safari lodges are the perfect spot for families, friends and couples looking for adventure a little closer to nature. Take in the Brecon Beacon views…
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.
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…
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…
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.
Wander enchanting twisting tree-root paths at Puzzlewood, the Forest of Dean set seen in Star Wars,… Wander enchanting twisting tree-root paths at Puzzlewood, the Forest of Dean set seen in Star Wars, Doctor Who & more. Tickets, opening times and handy tips.
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.…
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
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…
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.
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.
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…
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.
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…
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.…
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…
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Dates:
27th Jan 2026 - 31st Oct 2026
Join Witch and her friends on a spellbinding family adventure through the Forest of Dean on… Join Witch and her friends on a spellbinding family adventure through the Forest of Dean on Forestry England's Room on the Broom trail.
Dates:
13th Mar 2026 - 13th Mar 2026
Experience early spring wildlife in the ancient woodlands of the Forest of Dean Experience early spring wildlife in the ancient woodlands of the Forest of Dean
Dates:
21st Mar 2026 - 21st Mar 2026
Enjoy an evening stargazing with Jim on the hill at Tudor Farmhouse Hotel. You will go up the hill… Enjoy an evening stargazing with Jim on the hill at Tudor Farmhouse Hotel. You will go up the hill to enjoy the clear skies over Clearwell and learn more about the stars and…
Dates:
28th Mar 2026 - 28th Mar 2026
We've teamed up with Ed Drewitt, naturalist, broadcaster and wildlife detective to provide… We've teamed up with Ed Drewitt, naturalist, broadcaster and wildlife detective to provide fascinating, entertaining and hopefully fun Wildlife Safaris around the Forest of…
Event Dates:
2nd Apr 2026 - 4th May 2026
Exhibition and events featuring British big cat artwork in the gallery, &…
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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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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:
20th Jun 2026 - 20th Jun 2026
Join Liz from Forage Fine Foods to forage and make a tincture to take home.
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Event Dates:
19th Jul 2026 - 19th Jul 2026
This is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and to…
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Event Dates:
23rd Aug 2026 - 23rd Aug 2026
This is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and to…
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Event Dates:
5th Sept 2026 - 5th Sept 2026
Join Liz from Forage Fine Foods to forage and make a tincture to take home.
View Event
Event Dates:
19th Sept 2026 - 19th Sept 2026
We've teamed up with Ed Drewitt, naturalist, broadcaster and wildlife…
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Event Dates:
25th Sept 2026 - 27th Sept 2026
Plan a walking weekend at the Ross-on-Wye Walking Festival (25–27 Sept…
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Event Dates:
3rd Oct 2026 - 3rd Oct 2026
On our autumn forages you will be accompanied by fungi experts, Eric,…
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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.
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.
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.
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