The Forest of Dean is known for its stunning landscape, which includes ancient woodlands, rolling hills, charming villages, and rich history. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here is a guide to what to eat, drink, see, and do when visiting the Forest of Dean:
EAT
The Forest of Dean is home to a number of excellent pubs and restaurants that serve traditional English fare. Some popular options include the Royal Oak Inn, which serves delicious pub food, and the Saracen’s Head, which offers a range of dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients.
Apart from traditional pubs, you can also visit farm shop or farmer’s market to pick up some fresh, local produce such as Cornish pasties, cheeses, beers and ciders.
DRINK
The Forest of Dean is home to a number of breweries and cider farms, making it a great destination for craft beer and cider lovers.
- The Severn Cider and The Bespoke Brewing Co are both worth a visit.
If you’re into wine, there are a number of wineries in the region that produce excellent reds and whites.
- There is the Three Choirs Vineyards, where internationally award winning wines are available for tasting in the shop and for sale.
- Enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard at Wythall Estate, followed by a wine tasting in the Manor House.
SEE
The Forest of Dean has a number of interesting attractions to see from its beautiful and historic sites to its majestic forests and footpaths.The area also has a number of walking and cycling trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
- Dean Heritage Centre tells the story of the Forest of Dean and its rich history.
- Clearwell Caves is a series of underground caves that have been open to the public since the 1930s.
- Puzzlewood is a beautiful, ancient forest with winding paths and mysterious features, used as a filming location for TV shows and movies.
- Taurus Crafts is the center for contemporary crafts and design, featuring workshops, exhibitions, and a café.
- 12th-century Lydney Park is popular for its magnificent gardens and Roman temple complex.
- The ruins of Goodrich Castle is one of the finest and best preserved of all English medieval castles.
- The Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail features a range of sculptures by local and international artists.
DO
The Forest of Dean has plenty of outdoor activities to offer. It’s a large adventure playground!
- Go walking and hiking in the forest’s network of trails, including the Offa’s Dyke National Trail, which offers stunning views and the opportunity to spot wildlife.
- The Forest of Dean is a popular destination for mountain biking, with a number of trails to suit every age and skill level.
- Take a boat trip or go fishing, canoeing and kayaking on The River Wye and its many tributaries and also on some of the wonderful still water ponds and lakes in the Forest of Dean.
- GoApe is a must try tree top adventure course through the trees of the forest. Dubbed as the country’s number one forest adventure, thrill seekers get to climb, zip and tackle obstacles through the forest canopy.
The Forest of Dean is a beautiful and diverse destination with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax and take in the stunning scenery or get your adrenaline pumping with an outdoor adventure, you’ll find plenty of things to do and see in this unique corner of the country.
Enjoy your visit!
