You are here: Things To Do > Family Friendly > Young Families
There is an abundance of things to do to keep our youngest visitors happy in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. You can’t come to the area without a woodland walk and whether it’s raining or the sun is shining the trees are often a great place to shelter. If you enjoy walking and need a trail to follow then the sculpture trail from Beechenhurst is a good start. Forestry England also often have seasonal trails to follow which in previous years have included the Gruffalo or Shaun the Sheep.
A hidden gem for our younger visitors is Perrygrove, with its with steam train rides that circle a children’s play fort complete with slides and lookouts as well as woodland pathways and an undercover play area that makes you feel like you have stepped into toy town. Perrygrove is opposite one of the must-go attractions in the area, Puzzlewood, with its magical mystical natural woodland pathways it is a breathtaking sight which is why it is used regularly in TV and films such as Harry Potter, Star Wars, Doctor Who, Merlin and even Tree Fu Tom.
Other attractions loved by our younger visitors include the Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo and aMazing Hedge Puzzle where you can play hide and seek whilst you find your way into the middle of the maze. There are many majestic castles to visit in the area too including Goodrich Castle, Raglan Castle, Chepstow Castle and Caldicot Castle and they often run events, trails and activities to follow that let your little ones' imaginations run wild.
If cycling is your thing, you can take your own or hire a bike (and child’s seat) and head out for an hour or two onto the Family Cycling Trail. You can also hire a canoe (minimum age 4) and spend a few hours gently floating down the river – keep an eye out for otters swimming along the water's edge and kingfishers flitting past.
Number of results: 205
, currently showing 21 to 40.
Chepstow
With over 600 years' history weaved into its walls, that notion of rediscovery is no more evident than at Chepstow Castle. Beautifully preserved and stretching out along a limestone cliff above the River Wye, Chepstow Castle’s beauty is matched only by its historical significance.
Parkend
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.
Ross-on-Wye
We are the place to come to for your Wye Valley Outdoor Experiences; canoes, kayaks, SUP boards, climbing, bushcraft, survival, gorge scrambling, archery and more.
Symonds Yat West
Walk with butterflies as you explore the incredible and beautiful world of these wonderful creatures. This safari is for everyone with an interest in the environment, and has some wonderful photographic opportunities, come and see!
Coleford
Puzzlewood is a magical day out in the Forest of Dean. An enchanting, ancient woodland, filled with fantastic tree and rock formations. A popular TV & film location inc Star Wars.
Lydney
Enjoy a round of woodland themed adventure golf at Whitemead Forest Park, nestled in the heart of the Forest of Dean. Made up of 12 holes, complimented with expertly crafted features such as woodland creatures, flora and locally themed elements. It’s a great activity that all the family can enjoy together.
Coleford
The foodie hub of the Forest, this is a deli with a difference. You'll find a warm welcome and plenty of personality. Pop in to find out about all the delicious local food and drink we have in the area, order online or pre-book a picnic or hamper to sample a range of local delicacies. There is a huge selection of cheeses, homemade sausage rolls, local beers, ciders, gins and wines and a host of great cooking ingredients. Fill up on supplies while you're here and don't leave the Forest without taking a little bit of it away with you!
Coleford
Beechenhurst, managed by Forestry England, lies in the heart of the Forest of Dean, and is a great place to start your forest adventure. Trail, play area, picnic spots, Go Ape and cafe.
Symonds Yat
Internationally renowned viewpoint with fantastic views over the Wye Valley. A car park, cafe and shop are nearby and there are woodland walks all around including down to Symonds Yat East village.
Gloucester
Hartpury University RFC is currently one of the top 24 clubs in England and has been instrumental in furthering the development of talented rugby players studying at Hartpury.
Coleford
Let us put a fabulous picnic together for you, full of homemade bakes and local treats. As we make each picnic to order we can also cater for most dietary requirements. We can even separately box cheeses so they’ll stay cold and not get squashed.
Coleford
Bells Hotel is one of the most popular resorts for golf breaks in Gloucestershire and the Forest of Dean. Founded in 1973 the course is known for its unique rolling parkland, beautiful lakes, streams and spectacular woodland. The 18 hole, par 69 golf course poses challenges for golfers of all skill levels and is a joy to play.
Cinderford
Hello from the local experts in eco-tourism and wellbeing through nature connection! At Wilde Earth Journeys we believe that humans need more than ever to be better connected to the places we spend time in and to the planet. We are the go-to local experts for your perfect Shinrin Yoku (Forest Bathing) experience here in the ancient Forest of Dean. As fully permissioned, insured and trained walk guides we offer you opportunities to slow down, find some peace, enjoy nature and be in the company of friendly, like-minded people.
Newent
Llama Experience days within Gloucestershire in a privately owned farm with Lake and woodland.
Ross-on-Wye
With our base right on the banks of the beautiful River Wye at Symonds Yat West, in the heart of the stunning Wye Valley, we are in the perfect location for you to begin your water-sports adventure!
Gloucester
The prestigious Hartpury Equine Centre plays host to a number of affiliated and unaffiliated shows and events throughout the year as well as various public lectures and demonstrations. All event schedules, results, and further information can be found on the Hartpury Equine Events website.
Whitecroft
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.
Coleford
Unique railway with walks through beautiful woodland.
Tickets last all day - enjoy as many train rides as you like!
Indoor Village and exciting Treasure Hunt!
Cafe is available. Picnics welcome.
Lydney
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 'down time'.
St Briavels
Clay shooting, air rifle, archery tuition with friendly, experienced instructors; beginners, stag/hen parties, corporate events, & private shooting parties. On-site catering.
©Visit Dean Wye 2024. All Rights Reserved.
*Visit Dean Wye is the trading name of Forest of Dean & Wye Valley Tourism Limited.