Travel Guides
If you have 7 days to spend in the Forest of Dean area, you have plenty of options for things to do and see. Here are a few suggestions:
In the morning, head to Symonds Yat for a scenic walk along the River Wye. You can also take a boat tour or go kayaking if you're feeling adventurous. In the afternoon, visit the butterfly zoo and maze at the Symonds Yat West Leisure Park.
Start your day at Puzzlewood, a unique and mystical forest with winding footpaths and ancient trees. Afterward, check out the Clearwell Caves for a tour of the underground mine shafts.
Visit the ruins of Tintern Abbey, a Gothic monastic structure on the banks of the River Wye. Explore the surrounding valley and go for a walk along the Offa's Dyke Path.
Take a trip across the border into Wales and visit Chepstow Castle, one of the oldest surviving post-Roman stone fortifications in Britain. In the afternoon, wander around the historic town of Chepstow and do some shopping or grab lunch.
Spend the day exploring the beauty of the forest on walks and hikes. You could take a long walk along the Wysis Way or try some of the shorter, circular walks like the Sculpture Trail or Cannop Ponds Trail.
For the last two days of your trip, explore some of the area's other attractions and activities. You could visit the Dean Heritage Centre, try your hand at archery or rock climbing at the National Diving and Activity Centre, or take a steam engine train ride on the Dean Forest Railway.
As for places to stay, there are plenty of options in the area, from cozy bed and breakfasts to hotels and self-catering cottages. Some popular options include the Speech House Hotel, the Tudor Farmhouse Hotel, and the Forest B&B.