Adventure
Paddle into Summer!
Post date:
6th May 2025
Everything, you need to know about canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding on the stunning River Wye at Symonds Yat West!
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
Families | History | Nature | Groups | Arts | Accessible
The Dean Heritage Centre
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.
Prices from:
£120.00
Families | History | Nature | Groups | Arts | Accessible
The Speech House Hotel
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…
Families | History | Nature | Groups | Arts | Accessible
Wye Valley Sculpture Garden
The Wye Valley Sculpture Garden is the creation of artist Gemma Kate Wood, that she has built over… The Wye Valley Sculpture Garden is the creation of artist Gemma Kate Wood, that she has built over the last 20 years.
Families | History | Nature | Groups | Arts | Accessible
Woorgreens Lake and Nature Reserve
A nature reserve and lake in the heart of the Forest of Dean which is home to a wide range of… A nature reserve and lake in the heart of the Forest of Dean which is home to a wide range of plants and animals, many miles of footpaths and open forest views. The…
Families | History | Nature | Groups | Arts | Accessible
Coppett Hill
One of the most prominent features in the Lower Wye Valley offering some of the best views and… One of the most prominent features in the Lower Wye Valley offering some of the best views and walks in the area. Bluebells cover the hill in spring and it is well known as…
Families | History | Nature | Groups | Arts | Accessible
The New Fancy Geomap
The Geomap celebrates both the geological and the industrial history of the Forest of Dean. Each… The Geomap celebrates both the geological and the industrial history of the Forest of Dean. Each layer of rock shown on Geomap is made from the actual rock it represents,…
Families | History | Nature | Groups | Arts | Accessible
Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
The nation's favourite river, flowing through some of the most beautiful lowland scenery in… The nation's favourite river, flowing through some of the most beautiful lowland scenery in Britain. Find out about the Wye Valley AONB.
Families | History | Nature | Groups | Arts | Accessible
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 Events
Select a Timeframe:
Date From:
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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…
Families | Arts | History | Nature
Coleford Area Walking Festival
Dates:
10th May 2025 - 18th May 2025
This annual festival is based in & around the town of Coleford in the Forest of Dean, with walks… This annual festival is based in & around the town of Coleford in the Forest of Dean, with walks organised for all abilities ages & capabilities. With a varied walk programme…
Families | Arts | History
Foraging & Making with Liz Knight
Event Dates:
17th May 2025 - 17th May 2025
Liz Knight has spent the last 10 years gathering and playing with wild…
View Event
Families | Arts | History
Foraging & Making with Liz Knight
Event Dates:
17th May 2025 - 17th May 2025
These courses are designed to open you eyes to how the commonest of weeds…
View EventNature 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
Discover canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding on the River Wye in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley - from gentle paddles to full-day and multi-day trips.
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Dogs
The best places to see bluebells in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley
Post date:
17th April 2025
Discover the best places in the UK to see bluebells in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, with peaceful woodland walks and seasonal displays across the region.
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