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The Forest of Dean is a beautiful and historic region in western Gloucestershire, England. It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The Forest of Dean is home to ancient woodland making it one of the largest areas of its kind in England. There are also plenty of rivers, streams, and hills to explore.
The area is dotted with charming towns and villages, each with its unique character. You can browse shops, sample local produce, and relax in a traditional pub. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including wild boar, deer, and badgers. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a pine marten, which has recently been reintroduced to the area.
Where To Stay When Visiting The Forest of Dean
Located in the heart of the Forest of Dean you’ll find Whitemead Forest Park surrounded by acres of fantastic woodland. The relaxed woodland resort offers a range of accommodation options from camping and touring pitches, glamping pods, woodland lodges and spacious apartments. Onsite facilities include food and drink options, an indoor heated pool and a range of entertainment and activities,
Check out what Boo Roo and Tigger Too have to say about visiting the holiday park.
Things To Do in the Forest of Dean
The Forest of Dean, located in Gloucestershire, England, is a picturesque destination offering a plethora of activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Here’s a brief introduction to ten exciting things you can experience in this enchanting forest:
- Cycling Adventures: Pedal through the forest’s lush greenery and discover its hidden gems along well-maintained cycling trails.
- Immersive Forest Walks: Embark on a journey of exploration through ancient woodlands and scenic trails, perfect for all levels of hikers.
- Enchantment of Puzzlewood: Step into a fairy-tale realm at Puzzlewood, where twisted pathways and moss-covered rocks create a magical ambiance.
- River Excursions: Dive into water sports like canoeing or kayaking along the tranquil waters of the River Wye or River Severn.
- Subterranean Wonders: Explore the underground marvels of Clearwell Caves, where centuries-old iron mines and caverns await discovery.
- Nostalgic Train Rides: Take a ride on the Dean Forest Railway, a charming steam train journey offering glimpses of the forest’s beauty from a bygone era.
- Thrilling Outdoor Pursuits: Get your adrenaline pumping with rock climbing, abseiling, or zip-lining adventures amidst the forest’s rugged terrain.
- Wildlife Encounters: Keep your eyes peeled for deer, boar, and a diverse array of bird species that inhabit this biodiverse ecosystem.
- Scenic Symonds Yat: Marvel at breathtaking viewpoints and enjoy riverside walks in the picturesque village of Symonds Yat, renowned for its natural beauty.
- Tranquil Escapes: Unwind amidst the serene surroundings of the Forest of Dean, whether it’s enjoying a leisurely picnic or simply soaking in the tranquility by the riverside.
Places to visit in the Forest of Dean
Here’s a list of places you can visit in the Forest of Dean:
- Puzzlewood: This magical 14-acre forest is said to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth. It’s filled with contorted holly trees, sculpted by hundreds of years of growth, creating a natural wonder perfect for all ages.
- Clearwell Caves: Explore 4,500 years of history hidden beneath the Forest of Dean. Descend into the vast caverns and learn about the lives of Forest of Dean miners.
- Dean Heritage Centre: This open-air museum tells the story of the Forest of Dean’s inhabitants through the ages. You can explore a restored watermill, Victorian cottages, and a woodland sculpture trail.
- Symonds Yat Rock: Hike to the top of Symonds Yat Rock for stunning views of the River Wye and the surrounding countryside. There’s also a pub at the bottom where you can relax and enjoy the view.
- Westbury Court Gardens: Explore 15 acres of beautiful award-winning gardens, including a walled garden, a wildflower meadow, and a Japanese garden.
- Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail: Follow an 8-mile sculpture trail through the forest and discover over 130 sculptures created by local artists.
Image Credit: Depositphotos
