Dymock Forest

Visitor information

This ancient woodland consists of a mixture of tree species which provide a stunning display of seasonal colour and provide vital wildlife habitats

Take a walk through Dymock Forest and encounter the rich variety of plants and animals.

Areas of Dymock Forest are SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) and much is noted for its beautiful show of spring flowers, in particular the Wild Daffodils.

This pocket of ancient woodland comprises of some very valuable and rare trees, such as the Sessile Oak and Wild Service. Dymock Forest is also important for rare moths and butterflies;  the pearl-bordered fritillary, wood white as well as the uncommon white admiral are just a few to look out for.

From the main car park at Queenswood, there are two waymarked walking trails: The Lake Walk and The Princes Walk. Dymock is the perfect place for a gentle stroll, with plenty of spots for a picnic.

In order to protect the many habitats and rare species in Dymock, horse riding and mountain biking is not permitted off the main forest roads.

At any time of year, Dymock Forest is a delightful area to explore, offering a wide range of opportunities for ramblers, horse riders, bird watchers and walkers – but especially worth a visit during the daffodil season.

At a glance

  • Walking trails
  • Horse riding
  • Dogs welcome
  • Picnic area

Things to do

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Horse riding at Dymock Forest

Horse Riding is welcome in Dymock Forest on hard stone tracks only.  

The Dymock Forest Greenway comprises approximately 2.5 miles of high-quality, off-road, waymarked track located within Queens Wood and Hay Wood and 4.5 miles of quiet country lanes and bridleways. The Greenway runs through the barrier entrance from the car park, it has a boulder and a barrier but horses can access around them onto the hard stoned forest road.

There is also a Greenways route which links it to Hay Wood, just the other side of the M50 and is 7 miles long. It runs on forest tracks, country lanes and bridleways.

There are additional costs for a carriage driving permit.  Please contact westengland@forestryengland.uk for more details.

For more information on our facilities, opening times and contact details, please see our visitor information.

This a working forest, from time to time you may come across a working site or encounter a vehicle traveling along a forest road.

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Lake Walk

The Lake Walk is a 2.5km loop marked by red waymarker posts, guiding you past the lake, with lots of places to stop for a picnic.

The trail is easy and comprises of hard forest roads and smaller side tracks.

Some sections can become muddy after wet weather.

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Picnics at Dymock Forest

Enjoy a tasty treat in the forest at Dymock Forest. Just bring along good food and company!

To prevent forest fires and reduce waste, please do not bring any barbecues into our forests.

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Princes Walk

Starting at Queenswood car park, Princes walk is short 1.5km loop marked by green waymarker posts.

The trail is an easy loop and comprises of hard forest roads and smaller side tracks.

Some sections can become muddy during the wet weather.

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Our work

Conifer forest with looking up at the canopy with younger trees below

How we manage Dymock Woods

Dymock Wood is characterised by its diverse array of trees, including oak, ash, beech, and birch. Our conservation efforts aim to protect and enhance the woodland habitat, ensuring its long-term sustainability.
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Nearby forests

Broadleaf tree in field autumn

Haugh Woods

Haugh Woods is a 350 hectare mixed woodland, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to the rich diversity and nationally recognised for its butterflies and moths, with over 600 species living there! The rare Wood White butterfly and Drab Looper moth thrive in the recently coppiced areas.

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Speech House Woods

Speech House Woods

Visit Speech House Woodland, which is situated close to the most famous building in the Forest of Dean - The Speech House. 

The Speech House was built in 1676 by the King as a "court" where local people could have their say. Regular verderers meetings are still held here to discuss the management of the vert and venison.

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Trees in mist

The Cyril Hart Arboretum

Established in 1915 with trees brought back by the Victorian plant hunter Ernest Wilson from his 1910 explorations of China, The Cyril Hart Arboretum is home to over 200 tree species. 

Originally known as the Speech House Arboretum, it was later renamed the Cyril Hart Arboretum after Dr Cyril Hart who dedicated a lifetime of service to forestry and was a Senior Verderer (1952 – 2009) of the Forest of Dean.

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View from Symonds Yat Rock in spring

Symonds Yat Rock

Discover the ancient hill fort, spot birds of prey and enjoy a snack from the log cabin cafe.

There are waymarked trails linking to the River Wye and over the famous Biblins Bridge, or a choice of circular walks into the forest itself. There is also a cycling trail linking Forest Holidays and Camping in the Forest site at Bracelands to Symonds Yat Rock.

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