Forest of Dean and Wye Valley
Looking for a destination where the whole family can relax, explore, and have fun together? The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is packed with family-friendly experiences, places to stay, and things to do - making it the perfect spot for a short break or full-on holiday with kids in tow.
From easy walking trails and the best picnic spots to adventure playgrounds, wildlife encounters, and activity centres, there’s something here for every age and energy level. Whether you’re cycling the family Colliers Trail, paddling on the River Wye, or simply spotting birds and boar in the woods, the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is a natural playground that invites curious minds and active feet.
In this section, you’ll find family-friendly accommodation, cafés and pubs with kids’ menus, and attractions and experiences designed to make everyone feel welcome. Rain or shine, there’s always something to do and always room for a snack stop.
Browse below to plan your next family adventure in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley - where memories are made around every corner.
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.
Prices from:
£220.00
Comfy well equipped cottage adjacent to our coach house conversion, by a babbling brook in the… Comfy well equipped cottage adjacent to our coach house conversion, by a babbling brook in the beautiful village of Newland in Royal Forest of Dean.
As a family we have run our Adventure centre on the East bank of the river Wye since 1987. We… As a family we have run our Adventure centre on the East bank of the river Wye since 1987. We specialise in Canoe Hire from an hour to multiple day trips and everything in…
Taurus Crafts is a welcoming visitor center in Gloucestershire that features artisan businesses,… Taurus Crafts is a welcoming visitor center in Gloucestershire that features artisan businesses, creative workshops, and locally sourced food within a supportive community…
Beautifully preserved and stretching out along a limestone cliff above the River Wye, Chepstow… Beautifully preserved and stretching out along a limestone cliff above the River Wye, Chepstow Castle’s beauty is matched only by its historical significance.
Prices from:
£80.00
The Belfry Hotel - Family run pub, hotel and restaurant since Since 1992 The Belfry Hotel - Family run pub, hotel and restaurant since Since 1992
Discover the Wonder of Under! These atmospheric ancient mines at Clearwell Caves are an exciting… Discover the Wonder of Under! These atmospheric ancient mines at Clearwell Caves are an exciting underground world for the whole family to discover.
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.
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…
Prices from:
£245.00
Award-winning eco-retreat of laid-back luxury - stunning views, outdoor soaking bath, beautiful… Award-winning eco-retreat of laid-back luxury - stunning views, outdoor soaking bath, beautiful garden, 4k cinema - adult stays & family getaways.
Cycle Trail, Mountain & Road Bike Hire centre situated in the village of Parkend. A Cafe, serving… Cycle Trail, Mountain & Road Bike Hire centre situated in the village of Parkend. A Cafe, serving real coffee, cake & icecream. A bike shop and workshop. Great quality bikes…
3-Bed, 3-Bath Stunning converted barn with private hot tub and log burner. 3-Bed, 3-Bath Stunning converted barn with private hot tub and log burner.
Whether you’re searching for an exciting family day out, a new summer tradition or your next great… Whether you’re searching for an exciting family day out, a new summer tradition or your next great adventure, this is an experience not to be missed.
Prices from:
£19.00
Greenacres Campsite – Family Camping, Touring & Glamping with Bell Tents, Pod, Shepherd's Hut &… Greenacres Campsite – Family Camping, Touring & Glamping with Bell Tents, Pod, Shepherd's Hut & Luxury Cabin
Relax, learn a new skill and create a memory of your stay in the Forest of Dean to treasure… Relax, learn a new skill and create a memory of your stay in the Forest of Dean to treasure forever. Perfect for couples, families and small groups looking for some quality…
Coleford Library offers free access to information and shared spaces to work, learn and connect,… Coleford Library offers free access to information and shared spaces to work, learn and connect, helping people build skills and confidence.
Select a Timeframe:
Date From:
Date To:
Dates:
24th May 2026 - 13th Sept 2026
Next Event Date:
19th Aug 2026
Showcasing over 54 artists and 146 sculptures. The Summer Sculpture Exhibition is designed as an… Showcasing over 54 artists and 146 sculptures. The Summer Sculpture Exhibition is designed as an experience, offering space to slow down, reflect & engage.
Dates:
18th Jul 2026 - 30th Aug 2026
Join us this Summer Holidays for some free family fun! Join us this Summer Holidays for some free family fun!
Dates:
4th Oct 2026 - 4th Oct 2026
Join the Forest Showcase Food Festival at Speech House Hotel, Oct 5th, 10am-4pm. Local producers,… Join the Forest Showcase Food Festival at Speech House Hotel, Oct 5th, 10am-4pm. Local producers, tastings & family fun in Forest of Dean.
Dates:
10th Oct 2026 - 10th Oct 2026
Return of the World Famous Treorchy Male Choir this Autumn Return of the World Famous Treorchy Male Choir this Autumn
Event Dates:
11th Oct 2026 - 1st Nov 2026
Next Event Date:
11th Oct 2026
Autumn Safari in the Forest of Dean (daytime guided walks)
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Event Dates:
29th Nov 2026 - 29th Nov 2026
Kick off Christmas shopping by exploring over 80 stalls! Grab some lunch…
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Event Dates:
27th Jan 2026 - 31st Oct 2026
Join Witch and her friends on a spellbinding family adventure through the…
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Event Dates:
8th Apr 2026 - 5th Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
5th Sept 2026
Spend a day at the potter's wheel with Eastnor Pottery, Ledbury. Your own…
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Event Dates:
10th Apr 2026 - 18th Dec 2027
Next Event Date:
21st Aug 2026
Try your hand at the potter's wheel with a 90-minute introduction class at…
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Event Dates:
20th Jul 2026 - 24th Aug 2026
Next Event Date:
24th Aug 2026
Watch a traditional puppet performance by Glove Actually
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Event Dates:
29th Jul 2026 - 26th Aug 2026
Next Event Date:
19th Aug 2026
Get crafty at Chepstow Castle during the summer holidays!
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Event Dates:
30th Jul 2026 - 3rd Sept 2026
Next Event Date:
20th Aug 2026
Throw pizza plates on the pottery wheel, then enjoy wood-fired pizza from…
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Event Dates:
31st Jul 2026 - 20th Nov 2026
Next Event Date:
24th Aug 2026
Summer and Autumn Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari (daytime)
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Event Dates:
1st Aug 2026 - 30th Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
19th Sept 2026
Step back in time with Brother Thomas and learn what life was like as a…
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Event Dates:
2nd Aug 2026 - 31st Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
22nd Aug 2026
Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari
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Event Dates:
8th Aug 2026 - 11th Oct 2026
Next Event Date:
10th Oct 2026
Come to Tintern Abbey to see majestic birds of prey in flight.
View EventReady to make a splash? Save 15% on swimming products when you spend £50 or more in store at Gooch… Ready to make a splash? Save 15% on swimming products when you spend £50 or more in store at Gooch Sports.
Stay 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
Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo Great British Summer Savings 2026 Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo Great British Summer Savings 2026
Summer savings, entry prices reduced for the Adventure Golf, Miniature Golf and Butterfly Zoo. Summer savings, entry prices reduced for the Adventure Golf, Miniature Golf and Butterfly Zoo.
Money off 19-22 September Stay Money off 19-22 September Stay
Summer savings, entry prices reduced for the Roman Miniature Golf, Indoor Adventure Golf and… Summer savings, entry prices reduced for the Roman Miniature Golf, Indoor Adventure Golf and Butterfly Zoo.
Prices from:
£40.00
Experience a Bird of Prey Safari in the Forest of Dean, one of the UK’s most remarkable strongholds… Experience a Bird of Prey Safari in the Forest of Dean, one of the UK’s most remarkable strongholds for birds of prey.
Prices from:
£40.00
Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean
Prices from:
£35.00
Half day canoe trip - Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat Half day canoe trip - Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat
Prices from:
£35.00
1 day canoe trip - Ross-on-Wye to Symonds Yat 1 day canoe trip - Ross-on-Wye to Symonds Yat
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.
Duration: 4 Days 3 Nights
Enjoy an arty weekend in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley with sculpture trails, galleries, creative… Enjoy an arty weekend in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley with sculpture trails, galleries, creative workshops, and inspiring places to visit.
Duration: 5 Days 4 Nights
A 5-day arty mid-week break exploring sculpture trails, galleries, Tintern Abbey, and creative… A 5-day arty mid-week break exploring sculpture trails, galleries, Tintern Abbey, and creative spots in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
Ride world-class downhill trails at the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre. From flowy blues to… Ride world-class downhill trails at the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre. From flowy blues to double-black descents, experience mountain biking at its best in the Forest of Dean.
Looking for a safe, scenic and fun day out on two wheels? The Colliers Trail is a 9-mile circular… Looking for a safe, scenic and fun day out on two wheels? The Colliers Trail is a 9-mile circular off-road route through the Forest of Dean - perfect for families, beginners…
Discover cycling trails in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, from family-friendly rides and… Discover cycling trails in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, from family-friendly rides and traffic-free routes to mountain biking adventures.
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.
Find swimming pools, hot tub breaks & outdoor baths in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, from Bathurst Pool to natural swimming & group stays with pools.
Beat the heat with five family-friendly activities in the Forest of Dean this summer, from cycling and woodland picnics to Gruffalo adventures and camping
Read moreVisit Raglan Castle this summer for Welsh history, striking towers, countryside views, falconry days and living history events.
Read moreExplore the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail at Beechenhurst this summer. Discover 18 outdoor artworks, woodland walks, family-friendly activities and a unique day out in Gloucestershire.
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