The Forest of Dean
A great day out awaits at The Forest of Dean
This ancient forest has changed many times over the centuries. In medieval times it was a royal hunting forest, before becoming a source of timber for the navy's Tudor warships. By Victorian times it was a major site of industry, with coal mining and tramways punctuating the landscape.
In 1938 the Forest was designated the first National Forest Park and today the Forest of Dean is a popular destination for tourists.
Today the forest is still a working forest, producing sustainable timber for the UK market.
The Forest is also a stronghold for nature with large areas of woodland and open space providing a mosaic of habitats for a wide variety of wildlife.
It is a great place to explore. See if you can find the hidden remains of industry as you enjoy this wild and beautiful forest.
Useful information
- First time visitor? Plan your visit with a map of the forest.
- Regular visitor? You could save money with a membership.
- Want to give back? Take a look at our volunteering opportunities.
- Organising a school visit? Here's some useful educational information.
These are our main visitors sites in the Forest of Dean:
Beechenhurst - the best place to start your family forest adventure!
Symonds Yat Rock - stunning views over the River Wye and beyond.
Forest of Dean Cycle Centre - trails for all ages and abilities, bike hire available on site.
Mallards Pike - a scenic spot beside the lake, with a variety of activities on offer for you to enjoy.
Wenchford - popular picnic site beside the Blackpool Brook.
Cannop Ponds - an idyllic spot to view local wildlife including mandarin ducks.
Soudley Ponds - Surrounded by impressive Douglas fir trees, immerse yourself in the stunning landscape of Soudley Ponds.
The Cyril Hart Arboretum - discover over 200 tree species at the arboretum!
New Fancy - discover stunning views of the Forest of Dean at the New Fancy view point.
Tidenham Chase - walk along Offa's Dyke and see stunning views at the Devil's pulpit.
Nagshead Nature Reserve - the perfect place to spot wildlife.
Darkhill Ironworks - discover the fascinating archaeological site of Darkhill Ironworks and the Titanic Steelworks.
Dymock Forest - a Site of Special Scientific Interest, famous for its display of Wild Daffodils in spring.
The Forest of Dean - Our Work
Forests care for us. Together we care for forests.
For over 100 years, we have been growing, shaping and caring for the Forest of Dean for the benefit and enjoyment of all, for this generation and the next. Shaping the landscape for people, wildlife and timber. Supplying sustainably-sourced timber, conserving plant and animal species, recovering vital ecosystems and returning missing species to our landscapes.
The Forest of Dean - Our History
The Forest of Dean is a historic forest with its origins as a royal forest pre-dating the Norman Conquest of 1066. The Forest has been historically isolated and bypassed, sitting as it does between the Rivers Severn and Wye, on the border of England and Wales.
Happy times and waggy tails
For a safe and enjoyable visit for everyone, read our guidance on dogs in the forest.
