Visitor information

Fun for the whole family in the Forest of Dean this winter

Beechenhurst lies in the heart of the Forest of Dean, one of Britain's oldest and largest woodlands, and is the perfect place to spend time together this winter. 

Take a stroll on one of our many walking trails, or bring your bikes and visit the wider forest using the Colliers Trail - our family-friendly cycling route.

Beechenhurst is the ideal place for families to start their forest adventure, with a Gruffalo trail, large forest-themed play area and Go Ape high ropes course. 

This is also the home of the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail - look out for our unique collection of artworks hidden among the trees. 

Don't forget to refuel in the cafe or bring your own food to enjoy in our picnic area.

If you're looking to entertain the family this Autumn, and enjoy time together in the beautiful Forest of Dean, Beechenhurst is the place for you. 

Group of children pulling faces in front of a Gruffalo sign

Gruffalo Party Trail at Beechenhurst

The Gruffalo is celebrating his 25th birthday and to celebrate, everyone is invited to take part in a brand-new forest adventure.

What's on

Forest event
Saturday 14 December
11am - 2pm
Room above Beechenhurst Cafe (follow the ramp)

Join us at Beechenhurst for a free film screening celebrating the history of the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail.

The film "Common Ground" has been commissioned by the Sculpture...

Food and drink

Interior of Beechenhurst cafe showing tables and chairs in front of a large window.

Beechenhurst Cafe

Refuel your family from our on-site cafe which offers a range of food and drinks freshly prepared each day.

Founded in 1986, the sculpture trail is a partnership between Forestry England and the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trust.

Some of the sculptures are temporary, while others will last...

The play area at Beechenhurst has a host of wooden play equipment for your kids to enjoy. There is a separate area specially made for toddlers.

Play features include a zip line...

The Colliers Trail is our family cycling trail - a fully waymarked, circular route, with connecting routes to villages and picnic sites. This route has been especially surfaced and...

The Gruffalo is celebrating his 25th birthday and to celebrate, everyone is invited to take part in a forest adventure.

What to expect

The interactive family trail features all sorts...

family walking with dog

Beechenhurst maps

Need some help getting around? Get ready for your next forest adventure by taking a look at our trail maps.

Nearby forests

Rider on cycling trail in the Forest of Dean

The Forest of Dean Cycle Centre is the one of the most popular trail centres in the UK. If you're looking for a forest adventure, we have trails for cyclists of all abilities. 

With...

A wooden boardwalk stretches over the water at Cannop Ponds. Blue sky with white fluffy clouds.

Cannop Ponds are two reservoirs within the Forest of Dean, originally created in 1820s to supply a waterwheel at Parkend Ironworks.

Today, they are used for fishing by the Yorkley...

Lakeside view at Mallards Pike

There is something for everyone at this beautiful lakeside setting.

Adrenaline seekers can challenge themselves at Go Ape Tree Top Challenge. For those with energy left to burn...

View from Symonds Yat Rock in spring

Admire the picturesque views of the River Wye and surrounding area from this internationally famous viewpoint.

Discover the ancient hill fort, spot birds of prey and enjoy a snack...

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