Why the Forest of Dean? (AKA, Why You’ll Love It)

Imagine a place where wild boar roam free (yep, actual ones), the Wi-Fi occasionally vanishes *just* long enough to force family bonding, and the scenery is so ridiculously good-looking you’ll run out of Instagram captions by day two.

Located between the River Wye, Gloucester, and the Welsh border, the Forest of Dean is steeped in legend, mystery, and very decent pubs. It's a top pick for family reunions, birthday bashes, hen dos that want something more “country-chic” than “chaotic Ibiza,” and even low-key corporate retreats (because let’s face it, trust falls are way more fun in a forest).

And the houses? Oh, the houses...

The Big House Dream

You know the ones. Think roaring fires, long banquet tables, creaky staircases with stories to tell, hot tubs under the stars, and enough bedrooms to separate even the grumpiest of teenagers from the over-chatty aunt.

BHHL Large holiday lets in the Forest of Dean tick every box:

Room for everyone: From 10 to 30+ guests.

Big kitchens (for cooking or just dancing in with a prosecco).

Games rooms (perfect for poker nights or passive-aggressive Scrabble).

Enormous gardens (ideal for sunbathing, rounders, or unleashing the kids).

Pet-friendly options (because what’s a group trip without the dog stealing sausages?).

Let’s name drop a few:

Bromsash House

A grand Georgian stunner with six acres of dreamy gardens and an optional extra lodge. There’s a games room, rose bushes galore, and room for 18-ish guests—perfect for that reunion you've been “meaning to organise” since 2006.

Symonds Yat Lodge

River views, hot tub, adventure sports on the doorstep? Yes please. Sleeps 26, making it a prime pick for adrenaline junkies and large, slightly rowdy families (you know who you are).

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Studio

A converted music studio in Rockfield where Oasis, Queen and Black Sabbath once played. Now it’s your turn to party in the giant soundproof Studio Room. Bring the glitter ball.

What To Do (Besides Nap After a Roast)

The Forest of Dean isn’t just pretty to look at—it’s bursting with activities to keep everyone from toddlers to grandads entertained.

Forest Frolics

Puzzlewood: The ultimate fairytale forest. Honestly, if Tolkien and Narnia had a love child, this would be it. Great for photo ops, hide and seek, or pretending you’re in *Game of Thrones*.

Go Ape: Zip through the treetops like a caffeinated squirrel.

Bike trails galore: With everything from gentle family routes to full-on mountain biking madness.

Water World

Canoeing on the River Wye: Hire a canoe (or a guide if your steering’s a bit dodgy) and meander through the most beautiful bits of the valley. Bonus points for stopping at a riverside pub.

SUP or kayak if you’re trendy. Don’t forget your GoPro. #WyeNot

Wildlife Watching

If your group prefers David Attenborough over death slides:

Dean Heritage Centre for a bit of local lore and history.

Wild boar spotting (from a respectful distance please).

Birdwatching near New Fancy View – bring binoculars and a flask of something warming.

Retail Therapy

For the shopaholics in your group (there’s always one), pop into:

Coleford and Cinderford for charming little shops and cafes.

Ross-on-Wye for indie boutiques and seriously good cake.

Or take a drive to Monmouth for a touch of old-world class and classy lunch spots.

##Insta Goals

If your phone’s not full of reels and stories by day three, you’re doing it wrong. Here are a few shot ideas:

• The whole gang on a woodland walk**, wearing matching bobble hats. (Mandatory.)

• Canoe selfies on the River Wye** – sunglasses, peace signs, smug smiles.

• Bonfire night scenes**, marshmallows, and dramatic firelight.

• Pug in a hot tub**, sunglasses on. (OK that one’s just for us.)

Food Glorious Food

Don’t panic—no one has to cook the whole time (unless they want to). Here’s what’s on the menu:

• Private Chef services – loads of the big houses offer local chef hire. Think restaurant-quality meals in your slippers.

• Local pubs – like *The Saracens Head* at Symonds Yat, which does a cracking Sunday roast with river views.

• Farm shops and butchers – Stock up for a group BBQ or a charcuterie spread worthy of its own TikTok.

• Forest Deli in Coleford – perfect for cheese lovers and those who believe snacks are a food group.

The Final Word (and It’s a Good One)

If you’re looking for a group getaway that mixes nature, nostalgia, and a decent dash of luxury, **large holiday lets in the Forest of Dean** are your dream ticket. Whether you’re catching up with old friends, celebrating a milestone birthday, or trying to entertain three generations without a single tantrum (good luck), this region has it all.

It’s the sort of place where time slows down (but the laughter doesn’t), where you fall asleep to owls hooting instead of city sirens, and where every moment feels a bit more *alive*.

And honestly, isn’t that what holidays are for?

**#ForestOfDeanEscape**

**#BigHouseVibes**

**#WyeNotGo**

**#UKStaycationsDoneRight

To book your perfect large holiday let in the Forest of Dean get in touch:

Big House Holiday Lets
w: bhhl.co.uk
e: enquiries@bhhl.co.uk
t: 01600 732050