
Why the Forest of Dean is the perfect prescription to de-stress and unwind
The hidden gem that it is, The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley are great for those seeking serenity and calm, and a break from the hustle and bustle of the day-to-day.
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 the latest films at Studio Cinema in Coleford - a cosy, independent two-screen cinema in the… Enjoy the latest films at Studio Cinema in Coleford - a cosy, independent two-screen cinema in the Forest of Dean. Great value, great location.
This medieval hunting park covering survives intact as the Forest Commission's Chepstow Park Wood.… This medieval hunting park covering survives intact as the Forest Commission's Chepstow Park Wood. The wood is 7 km north-west of Chepstow Castle and was originally used by…
Established in 1986, the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail is a unique outdoor experience that… Established in 1986, the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail is a unique outdoor experience that seamlessly blends contemporary art with the natural beauty of ancient woodlands.
Nature's way to restore health and wellbeing. Experience guided Forest Bathing amongst the natural… Nature's way to restore health and wellbeing. Experience guided Forest Bathing amongst the natural beauty of the Forest of Dean.
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.
About UsA 15-acre smallholding overlooking the Wye Valley, comprising beautiful woodlands, paddocks… About UsA 15-acre smallholding overlooking the Wye Valley, comprising beautiful woodlands, paddocks and streams.Enjoy spectacular views over the Wye Valley, ideal for guests…
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…
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.
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.
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
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. .
Freedom Leisure Cinderford has facilities and activities to suit everyone including gym, fitness… Freedom Leisure Cinderford has facilities and activities to suit everyone including gym, fitness classes, swimming, squash and tennis.
Visit our llama farm for an unforgettable llama experience and animal enrichment Visit our llama farm for an unforgettable llama experience and animal enrichment
Award Winning Farmers Boy Inn Longhope Award Winning Farmers Boy Inn Longhope
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…
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…
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Dates:
19th Dec 2025 - 19th Dec 2025
A whole day with your own pottery wheel in our lovely rural pottery studio A whole day with your own pottery wheel in our lovely rural pottery studio
Dates:
29th Nov 2025 - 29th Nov 2025
Combine Pottery Making with Food Combine Pottery Making with Food
Dates:
15th Nov 2025 - 15th Nov 2025
A whole day with your own pottery wheel in our lovely rural pottery studio A whole day with your own pottery wheel in our lovely rural pottery studio
Dates:
30th Oct 2025 - 30th Oct 2025
Spooky pottery painting! Spooky pottery painting!
Event Dates:
29th Oct 2025 - 29th Oct 2025
Combine Pottery Making with Food
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Event Dates:
28th Oct 2025 - 28th Oct 2025
Spooky pottery painting!
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Event Dates:
18th Oct 2025 - 18th Oct 2025
A whole day with your own pottery wheel in our lovely rural pottery studio
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Event Dates:
16th Oct 2025 - 16th Oct 2025
Combine Pottery Making with Food
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Event Dates:
19th Sept 2025 - 21st Sept 2025
Relax and immerse yourself in pottery and beautiful countryside
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Event Dates:
5th Sept 2025 - 5th Sept 2025
A whole day with your own pottery wheel in our rural pottery studio
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Event Dates:
4th Sept 2025 - 4th Sept 2025
Combine food, pottery making & pottery painting
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Event Dates:
30th Aug 2025 - 31st Aug 2025
Spend two creative and awe-inspiring days exploring a myriad of potter's…
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Event Dates:
27th Aug 2025 - 27th Aug 2025
Combine Pottery Making with Food
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Event Dates:
23rd Aug 2025 - 23rd Aug 2025
Escape to the country and spend a whole day learning how to make pottery…
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Event Dates:
22nd Aug 2025 - 22nd Aug 2025
Combine Pottery Making with Food
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Event Dates:
14th Aug 2025 - 14th Aug 2025
Combine Pottery Making with Food
View EventFree llama walk when you book a 4 night stay in the shepherds hut Free llama walk when you book a 4 night stay in the shepherds hut
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.
Prices from:
£82.99
A 90 minute Llama Experience, spending one to one time with these spectacular South Americans… A 90 minute Llama Experience, spending one to one time with these spectacular South Americans Camelids, followed by afternoon tea!
Prices from:
£62.99
A 90 minute Llama Experience, followed by either a Latte, Macchiato or Hot Chocolate with Llama… A 90 minute Llama Experience, followed by either a Latte, Macchiato or Hot Chocolate with Llama chocolate sprinkles on the top and Llama cookies!
Prices from:
£59.99
Our llamas are endearing, sociable, and are well cared for - enjoy a one to one session to get to… Our llamas are endearing, sociable, and are well cared for - enjoy a one to one session to get to know them.
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.
The hidden gem that it is, The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley are great for those seeking serenity and calm, and a break from the hustle and bustle of the day-to-day.
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.
Read moreFind the most spectacular bluebell carpets in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley - peak bloom times, trail ideas and photo tips.
Read moreThe Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is home to a huge variety of birds throughout the year. Some are resident and can be seen in great numbers while others come here for the spring and summer, or autumn and winter.
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