Christmas Gift Guide
Find the perfect Christmas gift with local experiences, creative days out and unforgettable adventures across the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
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.
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
With trails for all abilities, this is the perfect place to start your cycling adventure in the… With trails for all abilities, this is the perfect place to start your cycling adventure in the Forest of Dean.
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 Trail and playground and shop local in our Gift Shop.
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…
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.
Beautiful lake in the Forest of Dean, popular for walking, with lots of picnic benches, nearby… Beautiful lake in the Forest of Dean, popular for walking, with lots of picnic benches, nearby cycle paths and a cafe and toilets on 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…
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…
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…
Visit our llama farm for an unforgettable llama experience and animal enrichment Visit our llama farm for an unforgettable llama experience and animal enrichment
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.…
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.
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…
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…
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.
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.
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Dates:
29th Jan 2026 - 15th Feb 2026
Experience the fleeting beauty of snowdrops at Wye Valley Sculpture Garden. Wander at your own pace… Experience the fleeting beauty of snowdrops at Wye Valley Sculpture Garden. Wander at your own pace among winter blooms, sculptures and valley views. Our annual sell-out…
Dates:
9th Jan 2026 - 9th Jan 2026
Experience winter wildlife in the ancient woodlands of the Forest of Dean Experience winter wildlife in the ancient woodlands of the Forest of Dean
Dates:
10th Jan 2026 - 10th Jan 2026
Join Liz Knight from Forage Fine Foods to learn how the commonest of wild plants can be transformed… Join Liz Knight from Forage Fine Foods to learn how the commonest of wild plants can be transformed to support hormonal health.
Dates:
10th Jan 2026 - 10th Jan 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:
17th Jan 2026 - 17th Jan 2026
Experience winter wildlife in the ancient woodlands of the Forest of Dean
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Event Dates:
18th Jan 2026 - 18th Jan 2026
Experience winter wildlife in the ancient woodlands of the Forest of Dean
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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:
1st Feb 2026 - 1st Feb 2026
Experience winter wildlife in the ancient woodlands of the Forest of Dean
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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:
8th Feb 2026 - 8th Feb 2026
Experience late winter wildlife in the ancient woodlands of the Forest of…
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Event Dates:
10th Feb 2026 - 10th Feb 2026
Experience winter wildlife in the ancient woodlands of the Forest of Dean
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Event Dates:
14th Feb 2026 - 14th Feb 2026
Join Liz from Forage Fine Foods for the ultimate galentine to learn how to…
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Event Dates:
1st Mar 2026 - 1st Mar 2026
Experience early spring wildlife in the ancient woodlands of the Forest of…
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Event Dates:
1st Mar 2026 - 3rd Jan 2026
Experience winter wildlife at dusk in the ancient woodlands of the Forest…
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Event Dates:
13th Mar 2026 - 13th Mar 2026
Experience early spring wildlife in the ancient woodlands of the Forest of…
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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.…
View EventSummer hols special 15% OFF Monday to Friday Summer hols special 15% OFF Monday to Friday
Prices from:
£12.75
Experience snowdrop season at Wye Valley Sculpture Garden. A fleeting winter display of beauty,… Experience snowdrop season at Wye Valley Sculpture Garden. A fleeting winter display of beauty, calm and sculpture in the Wye Valley. Our annual sell-out event. Limited…
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
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
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.
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…
Find the perfect Christmas gift with local experiences, creative days out and unforgettable adventures across the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
Through the Local Lens: Discover the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley with photographer Lee Pullen and find his favourite places.
Read moreThrough the Local Lens: Discover the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley with photographerJames Kelly-Smith. Hidden gems and local insights.
Read morePlan a festive or winter getaway in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley. Discover cosy stays, scenic walks, Christmas markets, and seasonal adventures.
Read more