Located just a 30-minute drive from the Regency town of Cheltenham, the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley make a perfect choice for a day trip or countryside escape during your stay in Cheltenham.
Dean Wye is home to acres of ancient woodland, breathtaking viewpoints and plenty of space to roam free. Discover woodland walks and outdoor adventures, off-road cycling, unique attractions and more castles per square mile than anywhere else in the UK.
Things to do in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley
All images by David Broadbent Photography, commissioned by Visit Dean Wye. Images feature biking during bluebell season, Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail and Clearwell Caves.
Head to the magical Puzzlewood, famous as a filming location for Star Wars and Merlin, take a nostalgic steam train ride on the Dean Forest Railway or venture underground at the ancient Clearwell Caves.
Stop at one of the Forestry England sites for a picnic or explore hundreds of miles of walking and cycling trails, from gentle family-friendly routes to longer hikes including the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail and the Family Cycle Trail. This ancient forest and wild river valley offer the perfect chance to recharge, get off the beaten track and escape the everyday.
The dramatic Wye Valley lies to the north and west of the forest, offering some of the UK’s most spectacular viewpoints. Visit Symonds Yat Rock for breathtaking panoramic views before relaxing at one of the riverside pubs nearby. The area is also popular for canoeing, kayaking and boat trips along the River Wye.
Market towns including Ross-on-Wye and Coleford are ideal for gift shopping and sightseeing, while history lovers can explore dramatic castles and the awe-inspiring ruins of Tintern Abbey beside the river. Rich in history, culture and outdoor adventure, the area offers something for every age and interest.
Food and drink in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley
From cosy country pubs and riverside cafés to award-winning restaurants and local producers, the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is home to many great places to eat and drink. Refuel after a woodland walk with hearty pub classics, enjoy afternoon tea in a market town café or sample local ciders, artisan cheeses and seasonal produce from independent food and drink businesses across the region.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxed lunch with a view, a traditional Sunday roast or a memorable meal after a day of exploring, Dean Wye offers plenty of delicious options to discover.
This stunning area lies just west of Cheltenham and is within easy reach for a day out using Cheltenham as your base. The Forest of Dean can be reached in around 30 minutes by car from Cheltenham. There are train stations at Lydney and Chepstow, along with bus services connecting many of the area’s most popular visitor attractions.
Discover more at Visit Dean Wye - www.visitdeanwye.co.uk
