Located in the west of England, close to the border with Wales, the Forest of Dean is one of the most beautiful and unique corners of the country. As @DeanWye says, ”The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley has some great things to do – both man-made and natural but all of them well worth a visit or worth trying.”
If you’re searching for a location for your next UK escape, the Forest of Dean could be just what you’re looking for. To help you plan your trip, and convince your other family members this is the perfect spot for a getaway, we’ve put together a list of our top five must-do activities in the Forest of Dean.
Forest of Dean Railway
The Forest of Dean Railway is a heritage railway that runs for 4.5 miles through the heart of this stunning area. There are five stations along the route, so it’s easy to hop off and explore the area.
You can combine a trip on the railway with a beautiful country walk or lunch in one of the many welcoming pubs that dot the area. There are regular special events on the railway throughout the year, so make sure you check what’s on before you arrive.
Canoe the Wye
The River Wye is arguably one of the most spectacular waterways in the UK. Passing through stunning countryside and teaming with wildlife, the river forms the western border of the Forest of Dean.
Taking a canoe trip along the river is a fantastic way to see a different side of the forest and get an up-close and personal experience of its wildlife. There are plenty of companies operating canoe tours on the River Wye, so finding a trip that suits you should be easy.
RSPB Nagshead
If you’re a fan of the natural world, a trip to RSPB Nagshead is a must. More than half of the reserve is made up of 19th-century oak woodland, making for a stunning setting and unique ecosystem. There are marked walks around the reserve to help you explore the area and discover everything it has to offer.
Cannop Cycle Centre
The gently undulating hills of the Forest of Dean are perfectly for cyclists of all abilities. Located in an old colliery, the Cannop Cycle Centre offers bike hire, a choice of cycle trails, a shop and a café.
Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail
As well as a great choice of adrenaline-pumping activities and natural sights, the forest is also home to some unique pieces of art. The Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail begins and ends close to the Forestry England Beechenhurst picnic site. From there, you can follow the trail into the woods and discover pieces by artists from around the world.
With so much to see and do, the Forest of Dean makes an excellent location for a family getaway, romantic escape or country retreat. Explore our site today to start planning your holiday.
