Dogs
Our Five Favourite Dog-friendly Pubs with ‘Proper’ Walks
Post date:
18th May 2025
Discover five favourite dog friendly pubs and 'proper' walks from the stunning Symonds Yat Rock Lodge.
Nature
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.
Nature Businesses
Nature | Relaxation | Dogs | History
New Fancy Viewpoint
Formerly the site of the New Fancy coal mine, the old spoil heap now provides spectacular views… Formerly the site of the New Fancy coal mine, the old spoil heap now provides spectacular views across the Forest. Great for birdwatching and for woodland walks. Easy access…
Nature | Relaxation | Dogs | History
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…
Nature | Relaxation | Dogs | History
Kingfisher Cruises
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…
Nature | Relaxation | Dogs | History
Blaize Bailey Viewpoint
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.
Nature | Relaxation | Dogs | History
The Heritage Coffee Shop
Located on the upper level of The Dean Heritage Centre, our coffee shop is the ideal spot to relax… Located on the upper level of The Dean Heritage Centre, our coffee shop is the ideal spot to relax and unwind.
Nature | Relaxation | Dogs | History
Wye Valley Falconry
Wye Valley Falconry is the brainchild of Luke Mammatt, a Falconer from Hereford who has worked at a… Wye Valley Falconry is the brainchild of Luke Mammatt, a Falconer from Hereford who has worked at a number of centres around the UK over a 14 year career.
Nature | Relaxation | Dogs | History
Whitecliff Ironworks
Whitecliff Ironworks is an important and unique heritage site in the Forest of Dean. It was the… Whitecliff Ironworks is an important and unique heritage site in the Forest of Dean. It was the second coke-fired blast furnace of three built in the Forest of Dean.
Nature | Relaxation | Dogs | History
Clearwell Caves
Discover the Wonder of Under! The neolithic mines at Clearwell Caves are a secret world hidden… Discover the Wonder of Under! The neolithic mines at Clearwell Caves are a secret world hidden beneath the trees – an exciting underground experience for the whole family.
Nature Events
Select a Timeframe:
Date From:
Date To:
Families | Arts | History | Nature
Sculpture Exhibition – 'Back to the Caves: The…
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
Families | Arts | History | Nature
Father's Day
Dates:
15th Jun 2025 - 15th Jun 2025
Dad's go free on Father's Day at the Dean Heritage Centre! Dad's go free on Father's Day at the Dean Heritage Centre!
Families | Arts | History | Nature
Wildlife Safari
Dates:
31st May 2025 - 31st May 2025
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…
Nature Experiences
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?
Nature Trails
Adventure | Families | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Cycling Trails in the Forest of Dean and Wye…
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.
Our guide to 12 easy walks in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley gives you a gentle introduction to… Our guide to 12 easy walks in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley gives you a gentle introduction to the region and some simple routes to get you started exploring.
Adventure | Families | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Ross-on-Wye Riverside & Town Trail
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.
Adventure | Families | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Film & TV Trail
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…
Our latest Nature blogs
Stay up to date
Be the first to hear about our exciting events, offers, inspiration and competitions by signing up.
