Through The Local Lens: Mark Adams
Through the Local Lens: with photographer Mark Adams. See why he loves the Forest of Dean, top tips and must visit places.
In the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley
If you're craving a slower pace, you've come to the right place. The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is the perfect setting to switch off, breathe out, and take some time for yourself - whether that's with a quiet walk through the trees, a hot tub under the stars, or a slow afternoon in a cute café.
In this section, you’ll find peaceful places to stay, gentle experiences, and welcoming spots to eat and drink - all handpicked to help you rest, recharge, and reconnect. From luxury retreats and spa treatments to nature-inspired wellbeing sessions, forest bathing, and quiet corners to enjoy a book, there are plenty of ways to unwind.
Whether you're here for a short break or a longer escape, relaxation in the Dean Wye isn’t about ticking boxes - it’s about finding space to slow down, enjoy the view, and feel good in your own time.
Explore below to plan a trip that leaves you feeling rested, restored, and ready for whatever comes next.
Enjoy spectacular views over the Wye Valley, ideal for guests who want to take time out to… Enjoy spectacular views over the Wye Valley, ideal for guests who want to take time out to reconnect with nature and enjoy the peace and serenity of this fabulous location –…
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.
Visit our llama farm for an unforgettable llama experience and animal enrichment Visit our llama farm for an unforgettable llama experience and animal enrichment
Floatation is a relaxation therapy where you float effortlessly on the surface of warm water… Floatation is a relaxation therapy where you float effortlessly on the surface of warm water saturated with Epsom salt. Your muscles relax and your mind can drift off.
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.
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.…
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
Cookery experiences for all. Holiday activities, parties, fire cooking, world cookery and many… Cookery experiences for all. Holiday activities, parties, fire cooking, world cookery and many more. Bespoke experiences for family groups & friends are. Venue hire & meeting…
Picturesque ponds, home to lots of wildlife. Great picnic area and central for walks and cycle… Picturesque ponds, home to lots of wildlife. Great picnic area and central for walks and cycle paths.
Ed and Liz Drewitt - husband and wife team offer guided wildlife-watching in and around the Forest… Ed and Liz Drewitt - husband and wife team offer guided wildlife-watching in and around the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
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…
The Wye Valley Sculpture Garden hosts one of Wales largest outdoor Summer Sculpture Exhibitions and… The Wye Valley Sculpture Garden hosts one of Wales largest outdoor Summer Sculpture Exhibitions and is one of the top things to see when visiting Tintern and the Wye Valley. .
A heathland restoration project, Tidenham Chase offers great walks and stunning views and is close… A heathland restoration project, Tidenham Chase offers great walks and stunning views and is close to the Offa's Dyke Path and the Devil's Pulpit viewpoint.
All Saints Church, Newland, The Cathedral of the Forest, dates back to the 1200s. This historic… All Saints Church, Newland, The Cathedral of the Forest, dates back to the 1200s. This historic church is home to the Miner's Brass a symbol of the Royal Forest of Dean.
Nagshead is an RSPB Nature Reserve, the largest in the Forest of Dean. It is an ideal spot for… Nagshead is an RSPB Nature Reserve, the largest in the Forest of Dean. It is an ideal spot for birdwatching and wildlife spotting with woodland walks, ponds and hides.
A small fishing lake in the Speech House woods, used as a filming location in the BBC series Merlin. A small fishing lake in the Speech House woods, used as a filming location in the BBC series Merlin.
Select a Timeframe:
Date From:
Date To:
Dates:
24th Feb 2026 - 31st Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
25th Apr 2026
Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari in spring Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari in spring
Dates:
24th Feb 2026 - 31st Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
24th Apr 2026
Spring and Summer Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari (daytime) Spring and Summer Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari (daytime)
Dates:
31st May 2026 - 31st May 2026
Experience Early Morning Bird Song Experience Early Morning Bird Song
Dates:
8th Apr 2026 - 5th Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
18th Apr 2026
Spend a full day at the potter's wheel with Eastnor Pottery, Ledbury. Your own wheel, plenty of… Spend a full day at the potter's wheel with Eastnor Pottery, Ledbury. Your own wheel, plenty of clay and expert tuition. £180 per person. Multiple dates available.
Event Dates:
19th Apr 2026 - 19th Apr 2026
Immersive journeys into beautiful imagery and blissful moods with the…
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Event Dates:
25th Apr 2026 - 28th Nov 2026
Next Event Date:
25th Apr 2026
A two-day potter's wheel course at Eastnor Pottery, Ledbury. Throw, trim…
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Event Dates:
30th Apr 2026 - 30th Apr 2026
Enjoy a vibrant Indian tasting evening at The Speech House featuring…
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Event Dates:
22nd May 2026 - 22nd May 2026
Meet Deb from Plumphill Farm at this special tasting evening celebrating…
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Event Dates:
1st Jun 2026 - 30th Jun 2026
Next Event Date:
1st Jun 2026
Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean
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Event Dates:
13th Jun 2026 - 14th Jun 2026
Antiques, vintage clothes, music and dancing!
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Event Dates:
25th Jun 2026 - 25th Jun 2026
A relaxed Spanish tapas night at The Speech House with Patatas Bravas,…
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Event Dates:
22nd Jul 2026 - 22nd Jul 2026
Sun-drenched Mediterranean flavours come to The Speech House with…
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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…
View EventStay more than one night and save on your room rate. Stay two nights for 10% off and three for 15%… Stay more than one night and save on your room rate. Stay two nights for 10% off and three for 15% discount
Midweek glamping discount at Bracelands Campsite Midweek glamping discount at Bracelands Campsite
Prices from:
£40.00
Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean
Sometimes you can’t get enough of floating! Here is your chance to go deeper into relaxation and… Sometimes you can’t get enough of floating! Here is your chance to go deeper into relaxation and explore further with a longer float.
Prices from:
£198.00
Three simultaneous one hour floats for you and two friends, each with your own private room Three simultaneous one hour floats for you and two friends, each with your own private room
Prices from:
£132.00
Two simultaneous one hour floats for you and your friend Two simultaneous one hour floats for you and your friend
Duration: 3 Days, 2 nights
A 3-day spring itinerary in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, including outdoor walks, local… A 3-day spring itinerary in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, including outdoor walks, local cafés, nature spots and relaxing stays.
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.
Explore the Coppett Hill Walk near Goodrich Castle. A 6.3-mile circular route with hilltop views,… Explore the Coppett Hill Walk near Goodrich Castle. A 6.3-mile circular route with hilltop views, woodland paths, and riverside stretches in the Wye Valley.
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