Christmas Gift Guide
Find the perfect Christmas gift with local experiences, creative days out and unforgettable adventures across the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
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.
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…
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…
Experience the thrill of outdoor laser tag at BattleSports Glos, where the excitement of paintball… Experience the thrill of outdoor laser tag at BattleSports Glos, where the excitement of paintball meets the safety and comfort of laser technology.
Stand-up paddleboarding, gorge scrambling, guided kayaking and rock climbing in the Wye Valley and… Stand-up paddleboarding, gorge scrambling, guided kayaking and rock climbing in the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean. Join us for an introduction, a half-day or full day of…
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…
Clay shooting, air rifle, archery tuition with friendly, experienced instructors; beginners,… Clay shooting, air rifle, archery tuition with friendly, experienced instructors; beginners, stag/hen parties, corporate events, & private shooting parties. On-site catering.
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.
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…
Mined since the 1800s, the colliery gives you a unique opportunity to learn about the ancient and… Mined since the 1800s, the colliery gives you a unique opportunity to learn about the ancient and fascinating tradition of freemining in the safe hands of an expert freeminer.
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.
Journey through the medieval Forest of Dean from Lydney to Parkend on a steam train or heritage… Journey through the medieval Forest of Dean from Lydney to Parkend on a steam train or heritage diesel train service. Free parking, cafeteria, museum and gift shop at…
Prices from:
£150.00
Resilient Woodlands Retreat offers two luxury log cabins nestled in ancient woodlands in the… Resilient Woodlands Retreat offers two luxury log cabins nestled in ancient woodlands in the beautiful forest of dean. Each cabin has its own totally private woodfired…
Outdoor Training and Adventure in the Wye Valley & South Wales Borderlands. Climbing, Caving,… Outdoor Training and Adventure in the Wye Valley & South Wales Borderlands. Climbing, Caving, Archery, Bushcraft, Navigation Training and more
Relaxed and friendly hospitality on a working farm near Symonds Yat and the Forest of Dean, ideal… Relaxed and friendly hospitality on a working farm near Symonds Yat and the Forest of Dean, ideal for walking and cycling. Restful lounge, large garden and spacious…
We are the Museum of the Forest of Dean. Learn about the history of the area, visit our Museum,… We are the Museum of the Forest of Dean. Learn about the history of the area, visit our Museum, explore the Gruffalo Trail and playground and shop local in our Gift Shop.
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.
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Date From:
Date To:
Dates:
5th Dec 2025 - 4th Jan 2026
As you explore the beautifully decorated Cathedral, help the angels share the joyful Christmas… As you explore the beautifully decorated Cathedral, help the angels share the joyful Christmas Message and bring good tidings to all!
Dates:
13th Dec 2025 - 13th Dec 2025
Enter the enchanting world of Father Christmas and meet the man behind the legend - St. Nicholas. Enter the enchanting world of Father Christmas and meet the man behind the legend - St. Nicholas.
Dates:
13th Dec 2025 - 13th Dec 2025
The Cathedral's beautiful decorations shine their brightest at night! Experience the festive charm… The Cathedral's beautiful decorations shine their brightest at night! Experience the festive charm of Gloucester Cathedral after dark at these special evening events.
Dates:
15th Dec 2025 - 15th Dec 2025
The Cathedral's beautiful decorations shine their brightest at night! Experience the festive charm… The Cathedral's beautiful decorations shine their brightest at night! Experience the festive charm of Gloucester Cathedral after dark at these special evening events.
Event Dates:
17th Dec 2025 - 17th Dec 2025
The Cathedral's beautiful decorations shine their brightest at night!…
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Event Dates:
19th Dec 2025 - 19th Dec 2025
The Cathedral's beautiful decorations shine their brightest at night!…
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Event Dates:
20th Dec 2025 - 20th Dec 2025
Enter the enchanting world of Father Christmas and meet the man behind the…
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Event Dates:
20th Dec 2025 - 20th Dec 2025
The Cathedral's beautiful decorations shine their brightest at night!…
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Event Dates:
23rd Dec 2025 - 13th Dec 2025
Enjoy beautiful music, traditional readings, and plenty of festive cheer,…
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Event Dates:
5th Nov 2025 - 31st Dec 2025
Join Stick Man for his winter forest adventure at Beechenhurst. It's the…
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Event Dates:
29th Nov 2025 - 24th Dec 2025
Visit Santa at Whitemead Forest Park this Christmas
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Event Dates:
5th Dec 2025 - 31st Dec 2025
Wander through our underground Festive Forest, where the woodland animals…
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Event Dates:
6th Dec 2025 - 23rd Dec 2025
Visit Father Christmas at the Dean Heritage Centre
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Event Dates:
7th Dec 2025 - 24th Dec 2025
A Magical Family Christmas Experience in the Forest of Dean! All aboard…
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Event Dates:
13th Dec 2025 - 13th Dec 2025
Pottery Christmas Decoration Making Workshop
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Event Dates:
13th Dec 2025 - 13th Dec 2025
Christmas pottery painting!
View EventDivine December Offer Divine December Offer
Canoeing is a brilliant way to see the Wye Valley’s stunning scenery and wildlife, and Way2Go… Canoeing is a brilliant way to see the Wye Valley’s stunning scenery and wildlife, and Way2Go Adventures offer a range of guided trips that are suitable for everyone, no…
Prices from:
£3.00
Treat yourself to a freshly-prepared and authentically 'Forest' hot lunch tomorrow; with The Pie… Treat yourself to a freshly-prepared and authentically 'Forest' hot lunch tomorrow; with The Pie House at Cinderhill Farm, we've got you covered!
Prices from:
£40.00
Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari, discover all kinds of mighty and mysterious creatures. Forest of Dean Evening Wildlife Safari, discover all kinds of mighty and mysterious creatures.
Prices from:
£40.00
Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari, experience the wonders of nature on a captivating journey… Forest of Dean Guided Wildlife Safari, experience the wonders of nature on a captivating journey through the ancient woodlands of the Forest of Dean.
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.
Find the perfect Christmas gift with local experiences, creative days out and unforgettable adventures across the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
Plan 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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