Dogs
5 Autumn Family Activities
Post date:
12th October 2026
Five family activities for half term in the Forest of Dean, from meeting the Gruffalo at Beechenhurst to Halloween clues on the Room on the Broom trail.
Family Friendly
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.
Families Businesses
Groups | Families
Big House Holiday Lets
Beautiful self-catering, large holiday homes in the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean. All easily… Beautiful self-catering, large holiday homes in the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean. All easily accommodate large groups of up to 26 people.
Foodies | Accessible | Families | Dogs | Groups | Relaxation
Harts Barn Cookery School
Learn new skills at Harts Barn Cookery School in the Forest of Dean, with hands-on cookery courses,… Learn new skills at Harts Barn Cookery School in the Forest of Dean, with hands-on cookery courses, baking workshops and inspiring food experiences.
Prices from:
£90.00
Families | Groups | Foodies
The King's Head Hotel
A family run hotel in the most picturesque street in Ross-on-Wye. All rooms are en-suite with tea &… A family run hotel in the most picturesque street in Ross-on-Wye. All rooms are en-suite with tea & coffee facilities and freeview flatscreen TV's.
Families | Groups
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…
Families | Groups | Foodies
Forest Deli Hampers & Gifts
Browse our Forest Deli gift selections or make your own by choosing your hamper style, and select… Browse our Forest Deli gift selections or make your own by choosing your hamper style, and select from any of the contents available in our Online Shop.
Families | Groups | History | Accessible
Cinderford Library
Visitors of all ages can discover books, ideas and new skills in a friendly, inclusive space that… Visitors of all ages can discover books, ideas and new skills in a friendly, inclusive space that supports learning, creativity and community connection.
Adventure | Families | Groups | Accessible | Dogs | Foodies
Pedalabikeaway
Pedalabikeaway is where forest adventures start. For families, cyclists, walkers & outdoor lovers… Pedalabikeaway is where forest adventures start. For families, cyclists, walkers & outdoor lovers of all ages come to explore. Visit our café & bike hire.
Adventure | Groups | Dogs | Families
Way2Go Adventures Ltd
Way2Go Adventures is a family-run business offering exciting outdoor activities such as Canoeing,… Way2Go Adventures is a family-run business offering exciting outdoor activities such as Canoeing, Kayaking, Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP) and Gorge Walking in the Wye Valley…
Accessible | Families | Dogs | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Mallards Pike
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.
Foodies | Groups | Families
Dining at Bells Hotel and Country Club
We offer a range of light bites, main meals and daily specials, as well as a children’s menu. The… We offer a range of light bites, main meals and daily specials, as well as a children’s menu. The Club House is open for anyone to visit for a drink or bite to eat.
Families | Adventure | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Briery Hill Llamas
Visit our llama farm for an unforgettable llama experience and animal enrichment Visit our llama farm for an unforgettable llama experience and animal enrichment
Families
Puzzlewood Cottages
Stay on site at the popular attraction Puzzlewood and enjoy unlimited access to the woods outside… Stay on site at the popular attraction Puzzlewood and enjoy unlimited access to the woods outside of normal hours with direct access from the cottages. Kids love feeding our…
Dogs | Families | Nature | Relaxation
Wenchford
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
Prices from:
£19.00
Families | Dogs | Groups
Greenacres Campsite
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
Families | Groups
Hidden Gems
Stay at Ardens Farm or Holly Barn – two unique countryside escapes in the Forest of Dean, perfect… Stay at Ardens Farm or Holly Barn – two unique countryside escapes in the Forest of Dean, perfect for group getaways and outdoor adventures.
Prices from:
£80.00
Dogs | Families | Groups
Hobbit Huts at Saltbox Escapes
Quirky hobbit-sized luxury in nature with stunning views. Two Hobbit Huts providing cosy comfort… Quirky hobbit-sized luxury in nature with stunning views. Two Hobbit Huts providing cosy comfort for couples and families in a child- and dog-friendly meadow.
Families Events
Select a Timeframe:
Date From:
Date To:
Families | Arts | Groups
Christmas at the Movies by The Great British Film…
Dates:
26th Nov 2026 - 26th Nov 2026
A spectacular live concert experience that brings the most beloved festive film scores to life,… A spectacular live concert experience that brings the most beloved festive film scores to life, performed by The Great British Film Orchestra.
Families | Groups | Nature | Arts
Festive Forest
Dates:
28th Nov 2026 - 31st Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
28th Nov 2026
Wander through our underground Festive Forest, where the woodland animals are preparing for… Wander through our underground Festive Forest, where the woodland animals are preparing for Christmas in their own special way.
Families | Foodies
Christmas Fayre
Dates:
29th Nov 2026 - 29th Nov 2026
Kick off Christmas shopping by exploring over 80 stalls! Grab some lunch from one of the hot food… Kick off Christmas shopping by exploring over 80 stalls! Grab some lunch from one of the hot food vendors to enjoy alongside variety live music and street entertainment. For…
Families | Foodies | Groups | Accessible
Christmas at Silver Circle Distillery
Dates:
4th Dec 2026 - 19th Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
4th Dec 2026
Festive nights in our winter Chalet Festive nights in our winter Chalet
Arts | Families | Groups
Motown Christmas by Candlelight
Event Dates:
5th Dec 2026 - 5th Dec 2026
A sensational cast of world-class vocalists and a stunning live band…
View Event
Families | Arts | Groups
London Concertante Christmas at the Movies
Event Dates:
17th Dec 2026 - 17th Dec 2026
Get ready to unwrap the ultimate holiday treat with London Concertante’s…
View Event
Families | Arts | Groups
Bublé Christmas by Candlelight
Event Dates:
19th Dec 2026 - 19th Dec 2026
Get ready for the ultimate festive feel-good concert, packed with…
View Event
Adventure | Families | Nature
Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari (daytime)
Event Dates:
31st Jul 2026 - 16th Mar 2027
Next Event Date:
20th Nov 2026
Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari (daytime)
View Event
Families | Groups | History
Brother Thomas the Cellarer
Event Dates:
1st Aug 2026 - 30th Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
29th Dec 2026
Step back in time with Brother Thomas and learn what life was like as a…
View Event
Adventure | Families | Groups
Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari
Event Dates:
2nd Aug 2026 - 31st Mar 2027
Next Event Date:
15th Nov 2026
Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari
View Event
Families | Groups | Arts
Afternoon Tea & Pottery Experience
Event Dates:
27th Aug 2026 - 2nd Apr 2027
Next Event Date:
7th Mar 2027
Combine food, pottery making & pottery painting
View Event
Dogs | Families | Foodies
Fun & Friendly Pub Quiz in the Forest of Dean
Event Dates:
16th Sept 2026 - 11th Nov 2026
Next Event Date:
11th Nov 2026
After a day exploring the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, unwind with our…
View Event
Families | Arts | Groups
Pasta & Pottery Experience
Event Dates:
15th Oct 2026 - 18th Feb 2027
Next Event Date:
20th Nov 2026
Combine Pottery Making with Food
View Event
Families | Arts | Groups
Potter's Wheel Introduction Class
Event Dates:
16th Oct 2026 - 18th Dec 2027
Next Event Date:
14th Nov 2026
Try your hand at the potter's wheel with a 90-minute introduction class at…
View Event
Families | Arts
Potter's Wheel Weekend Course
Event Dates:
31st Oct 2026 - 28th Nov 2027
Next Event Date:
28th Nov 2026
Spend 2 creative and awe-inspiring days exploring potter's wheel…
View Event
Adventure | Families | Arts
Room on the Broom Christmas Trail at Beechenhurst
Event Dates:
4th Nov 2026 - 27th Jan 2027
Join Witch and her friends on a magical Christmas adventure at…
View EventFamilies Offers
Midweek glamping discount at Bracelands Campsite 6th September - 20th December 2026 Midweek glamping discount at Bracelands Campsite 6th September - 20th December 2026
Dogs | Families | Foodies | Nature | Relaxation
Stay & Save Offer
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
Discounted price per person for group bookings: Discounted price per person for group bookings:
Kids can enjoy free entry to Perrygrove from 3rd - 29th November 2026! Kids can enjoy free entry to Perrygrove from 3rd - 29th November 2026!
Celebrate Christmas in our cosy 16th-century country pub with a delicious home-cooked festive menu,… Celebrate Christmas in our cosy 16th-century country pub with a delicious home-cooked festive menu, children's options and a warm Forest of Dean welcome.
Families Experiences
Prices from:
£480.00
Adventure | Families | Groups
Christmas Traitors Experience
Looking for a Christmas party with a difference? Gather your team and step into an evening of… Looking for a Christmas party with a difference? Gather your team and step into an evening of deception, deduction and festive fun at The Red Hart Inn.
Prices from:
£40.00
Adventure | Families | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean
Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean
Prices from:
£40.00
Adventure | Families | Groups | Nature
Bird of Prey Safari Experience in the Forest of…
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:
£35.00
Adventure | Dogs | Families | Groups
1 day canoe trip - Ross-on-Wye to Symonds Yat
1 day canoe trip - Ross-on-Wye to Symonds Yat 1 day canoe trip - Ross-on-Wye to Symonds Yat
Families Itineraries
Families | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
A 3-Day Spring Itinerary in the Forest of Dean &…
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.
Dogs | Families | Groups | Arts | History
An arty long weekend in the Forest of Dean & Wye…
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.
Dogs | Families | Groups | Arts | History
An arty mid week break in the Forest of Dean &…
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.
Families Trails
Adventure | Families
Downhill Cycling Trails
Ride world-class downhill trails, from flowy blues to double-black descents, experience mountain… Ride world-class downhill trails, 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.
Adventure | Families | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Cycle Routes and Bike Trails in the Forest of…
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.
Families | Dogs | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
12 Easy Forest of Dean & Wye Valley Walks
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.
Our latest Families blogs
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.
Read more
Dogs
5 Family Activities for Summer in the Forest of Dean | Forestry England
Post date:
14th July 2026
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 more
Visit Raglan Castle this summer for Welsh history, striking towers, countryside views, falconry days and living history events.
Read moreStay up to date
Be the first to hear about our exciting events, offers, inspiration and competitions by signing up.
