A weekend away with the family sounds wonderfully relaxing. Until approximately 8.07am on Saturday when somebody small asks, “What are we doing today?” Fortunately, when you're staying in the Wye Valley or Forest of Dean, there are plenty of answers.
Get Lost in Puzzlewood
If your children like magical forests, secret pathways and places that look as though something with pointy ears might appear from behind a tree, start with Puzzlewood.
This extraordinary ancient woodland near Coleford has twisting trees, moss-covered rocks, wooden bridges and around a mile and a half of pathways. It's also been used as a filming location for productions including Star Wars and Doctor Who.
Just remember sensible shoes — there are plenty of uneven steps.
Take to the Treetops
For children with rather more energy than their parents, there's Go Ape Forest of Dean Beechenhurst.
Its family-friendly high ropes adventures include an entry-level course for children aged 4–10 and a more challenging Adventure Plus course for ages 6+. Expect climbing, obstacles, zip wires and possibly an adult discovering they're considerably less fearless at height than they remembered.
Paddle the River Wye
Want an adventure everyone will remember?
Head for the river.
Wyedean Canoe & Adventure Centre at Symonds Yat East offers canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding on the River Wye, with activities suitable for families as well as larger groups.
It's a fantastic way to see the Wye Valley from a completely different perspective.
Steam Trains for Smaller Adventurers
For younger children, Perrygrove Railway Adventure near Coleford combines steam train rides with indoor and outdoor play areas, woodland walks, den building and plenty of room to explore. It's particularly designed with younger families in mind.
Even better, it's opposite Puzzlewood, making the two easy to combine during your break.
And If the Weather Misbehaves…
Go underground.
At Clearwell Caves, families can explore nine impressive caverns beneath the Forest of Dean and discover the area's fascinating mining history. The usual self-guided visit descends around 100 feet underground.
Then comes the best bit.
Head back to your Big House Holiday Lets house, kick off the muddy shoes, feed everybody and collapse.
Because a brilliant family weekend doesn't need an itinerary covering every waking minute.
Sometimes you need adventures.
And sometimes you need a big house, a comfy sofa and children who have finally run out of energy.
Perfect.
Ready to bring your tribe for an adventure? We have 16 houses for groups of 12 - 40 so give us a call!
Big House Holiday Lets:
www.bhhl.co.uk
enquiries@bhhl.co.uk
01600 732 050