Celebrating World Book Day in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley
From forests that inspired Tolkien and Rowling to trails that bring storybooks to life, discover the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley's rich literary heritage.
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.
Located on the upper level of The Dean Heritage Centre, our coffee shop is the ideal spot to relax… Located on the upper level of The Dean Heritage Centre, our coffee shop is the ideal spot to relax and unwind.
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…
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…
Enjoy a round of woodland themed adventure golf at Whitemead Forest Park. Made up of 12 holes,… Enjoy a round of woodland themed adventure golf at Whitemead Forest Park. Made up of 12 holes, complimented with expertly crafted features such as woodland creatures, flora…
Prices from:
£543.00
5 Luxury Cottages in Private Hamlet | Book One or All | Hot Tubs & Log Fires | Civil Cermony Inside… 5 Luxury Cottages in Private Hamlet | Book One or All | Hot Tubs & Log Fires | Civil Cermony Inside or Out | Child and Pet friendly | Event Spaces
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
A fabulous Grade II listed barn with many original features, set within a private walled garden,… A fabulous Grade II listed barn with many original features, set within a private walled garden, Holly Barn in Westbury-on-Severn sleeps up to fifteen people & provides an…
Step into a world of myth and mystery at the brand-new Indoor Adventure Golf. Inspired by the… Step into a world of myth and mystery at the brand-new Indoor Adventure Golf. Inspired by the legends of King Arthur and Merlin’s magic -it’s a twelve-hole quest.
Ardens Farm is a three storey Grade II listed farmhouse, complete with everything you need to… Ardens Farm is a three storey Grade II listed farmhouse, complete with everything you need to explore the Forest of Dean. Set within a working farm and provides plenty of…
Nestled deep within the Forest of Dean are some of the best outdoor experiences and things to do.… Nestled deep within the Forest of Dean are some of the best outdoor experiences and things to do. High ropes and all-terrain Forest Segways at the ready.
Walk with butterflies at the Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo in Symonds Yat. Walk with butterflies at the Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo in Symonds Yat.
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.
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…
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…
The Lamproom Cafe sits above ground and is the only marker for adventures taking place below. With… The Lamproom Cafe sits above ground and is the only marker for adventures taking place below. With homemade soups, sandwiches, cakes, leaf teas and all your favourite organic…
Bells Hotel and Country Club is based on the outskirts of Coleford Town Centre; a perfect location… Bells Hotel and Country Club is based on the outskirts of Coleford Town Centre; a perfect location for outdoor pursuits, cycling, walking, canoeing and hiking in the Forest…
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Date From:
Date To:
Dates:
24th Feb 2026 - 31st Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
4th 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:
13th Mar 2026
Spring and Summer Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari (daytime) Spring and Summer Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari (daytime)
Dates:
15th Mar 2026 - 15th Mar 2026
Celebrate Mothers Day in Timeless Surroundings Celebrate Mothers Day in Timeless Surroundings
Dates:
4th Apr 2026 - 4th Apr 2026
Browse a variety of independent and local traders while you enjoy live music from Silurian and… Browse a variety of independent and local traders while you enjoy live music from Silurian and Venus Levan. For your little ones, there will also be free facepainting and a…
Event Dates:
17th May 2026 - 17th May 2026
Live music every Sunday at the Bandstand in Ross-on-Wye. Free for all to…
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Event Dates:
14th Jun 2026 - 14th Jun 2026
Market for anyone who loves high-quality street food, artisan bakes, and…
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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:
6th Mar 2026 - 6th Mar 2026
Join us at 2pm on Friday 6th of March 2026 for a hands on Potter’s Wheel…
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Event Dates:
7th Mar 2026 - 7th Mar 2026
Join us at 11am on Saturday 7th of March 2026 for a hands on Potter’s…
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Event Dates:
7th Mar 2026 - 7th Mar 2026
Join us at 2pm on Saturday 7th of March 2026 for a hands on Potter’s Wheel…
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Event Dates:
13th Mar 2026 - 13th Mar 2026
Join us at 11am on Friday 13th of March 2026 for a hands on Potter’s Wheel…
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Event Dates:
14th Mar 2026 - 15th Mar 2026
Become the King or Queen of Chepstow Castle by decorating your very own…
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Event Dates:
14th Mar 2026 - 14th Mar 2026
Escape to the country and spend a whole day learning how to make pottery…
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Event Dates:
14th Mar 2026 - 14th Mar 2026
Escape to the country and spend a whole day learning how to make pottery…
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Event Dates:
15th Mar 2026 - 15th Mar 2026
Mother's Day Unique Pottery and Food Experience
View EventEnjoy a Fixed Price feast? Two courses for £20 or indulge yourself with three courses for only £24 Enjoy a Fixed Price feast? Two courses for £20 or indulge yourself with three courses for only £24
Prices from:
£40.00
Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean
Prices from:
£35.00
Three quarter day canoe trip - Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat Three quarter day canoe trip - Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat
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: 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…
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.
From forests that inspired Tolkien and Rowling to trails that bring storybooks to life, discover the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley's rich literary heritage.
Find the perfect Christmas gift with local experiences, creative days out and unforgettable adventures across the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
Read morePlan a festive or winter getaway in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley. Discover cosy stays, scenic walks, Christmas markets, and seasonal adventures.
Read moreDiscover top Bonfire Night 2025 fireworks displays in and around the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley. Check timings and details before attending.
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