Dean Heritage Centre

Free entry, donations welcome.

Located in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, a perfect day out for all the family!

As an accredited museum, we focus on preserving the Forest of Dean's heritage. We share stories and artefacts. We also create an interactive centre and care for valuable items. Our goal is to ensure a lasting legacy and protect our collection for future generations. The Dean Heritage Museum Trust is a registered charity. We depend on the income generated by our visitors. Help keep our local history and heritage alive.

The Museum

The Dean Heritage Centre has five galleries. You can explore the journey from prehistoric times to how the community coped during World War II. The museum offers a fun and interactive experience. It has fun activities and visual displays. Our indoor trails let you learn more about the centre and its amazing exhibits. Ask a member of our team at the centre for more details during your visit.

The Gruffalo Trail

We based our woodland trail on the much-loved children's book, The Gruffalo. Join the famous mouse on a short trail by the brook. Explore carved montages that share the tale of the Gruffalo, created by Julia Donaldson. As you walk the trail, you'll see how the mouse escapes tricky situations. You'll enjoy the great story and admire the beloved character carvings. Come along and enjoy this wonderful story with your family in the beautiful Forest of Dean. We are a woodland site with gravel paths, but the trail is suitable for a buggy.

The Coffee Shop

Located on the upper level of The Dean Heritage Centre, our coffee shop is the ideal spot to relax and unwind. Our menu has a wide range of breakfasts, lunches, snacks, and drinks. Whether you prefer to sit inside or take in the scenic views of the mill pond from our balcony, we've got you covered. And for those in a hurry, we offer convenient takeaway services.

The Gift Shop

The gift shop plays an important part as the entrance to the museum, but it is also a shopping destination in its own right. A proud supporter of local craftspeople and artists, from jewellers and printmakers to glass artists and woodworkers. We also sell a wide range of toys and gifts inspired by the Forest, the museum itself, and of course, the Gruffalo. Every pound you spend in the gift shop helps to support our aim to preserve the heritage, culture, and history of the Forest of Dean.

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