ABOUT THE FOREST OF DEAN

Nestling between the Wye Valley, the Vale of Leadon and the Severn Valley, the Royal Forest of Dean is one of England’s few remaining ancient forests, covering 27,000 acres of woodland.

Designated as a National Forest Park in 1938, this 'Queen of Forests’ boasts a spectacular range of natural beauty combined with an aura of magic and mystery that has been the inspiration for many great artists and writers including JRR Tolkien, Dennis Potter and JK Rowling.

The seasons bring an ever-changing landscape, from the vivid blues and yellows of wild bluebells and daffodils in spring, to the blaze of gold and russet colours during autumn. Nature and wildlife is abundant, complemented by a wealth of local fare and a true ‘Forest’ welcome, which awaits all visitors.

With such a spectacular range of natural beauty, outdoor leisure activities and attractions, combined with a uniquely fascinating history and heritage plus a whole host of year-round events and festivals, the Royal Forest of Dean truly is an awe inspiring short-break destination at any time of the year.

The Forest of Dean is made up of four quite different landscape areas:
The ancient Royal Forest lies at the very heart of the district with the market towns of Coleford and Cinderford offering an insight into the industrial heritage and history of this fascinating area.

The Wye Valley is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and forms the western border of the Forest, separating England from Wales. This unique area offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as canoeing and fishing on what is perhaps Britain’s most unspoilt major river.

The Vale of Leadon is a quintessentially unspoilt English area featuring rolling farmland, vineyards and black and white timbered buildings centred around the picturesque town of Newent in the northern part of the district.

The Severn Vale, through which flows the country’s longest river, is famous for its tidal bore, Blaisdon Plums and Perry Pears. The old Severnside port of Lydney is the area’s main town, and is a thriving business and shopping area.

For shopping, there are 4 towns, which make the Forest Of Dean area so diverse. Coleford, Lydney, Cinderford and Newent offer a number of High Street stores coupled together with some smaller Independent stores and businesses. The larger towns of Chepstow, Monmouth and Ross-On-Wye are a short drive with the City Of Gloucester some 20 miles away.