Family Friendly Things To Do

People tell us time and time again that the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is such a great place for families. It’s a place with loads to do for all ages, plenty to excite and thrill, plenty to entertain and enjoy and most importantly, for many families, it’s somewhere to reconnect with each other and enjoy the calm that being in nature can bring.

Whilst a simple nature walk is the perfect start to any trip to the area, there are also many attractions and activities that take getting back to nature to another level. From castles to train rides, canoeing to cave exploring we have an abundance of excitement waiting for children of all ages – particularly those harder to satisfy tweens and teens.   

Step back in time: Learn more about the history of the area at the Dean Heritage Centre with interactive galleries including a Victorian cottage, it also has a Gruffalo trail to follow throughout its own woodland as well as a lovely café onsite.

Lose yourself in a different world: Switch off your satnav and get lost, it will lead to all kinds of fun. Enjoy wandering through the ancient paths and mossy rocks in Puzzlewood, or find the surprise at the centre of Elton's Giant Maze (open May-Sep), or try the aMazing Hedge Puzzle.   

Get on the right track: Experience the Forest at a slower pace all aboard a Perrygrove Railway steam train. For a fun family day out visit the Dean Forest Railway, which stops at five points so passengers can enjoy a woodland walk or a hearty pub meal.

Looking for something more leisurely? Sit back and relax with a river cruise with Kingfisher Cruises along the Wye. Look out for jumping trout, kingfishers, otters and swans as you sit back, relax and let the towering, limestone gorge scenery drift by.