Holiday Ideas > The Ultimate Forest of Dean & Wye Valley Bucket List (With Extra Fun)

The Ultimate Forest of Dean & Wye Valley Bucket List (With Extra Fun)

Symonds Yat Rock: The VIP Lounge of Nature

Panoramic Views Worth the Hype

First up: Symonds Yat Rock, aka nature’s very own penthouse suite. If you’re into jaw-dropping views that demand a mandatory Instagram post, this is your spot. The River Wye does its best impression of a pretzel below, winding through lush greenery. And if you show up in autumn? Prepare for a full-blown color explosion that’ll make your phone’s camera work overtime.

Peregrine Falcon HQ

This place isn’t just a pretty face—it’s also a five-star hangout for peregrine falcons. These birds are the Ferraris of the sky, diving at over 200 mph. There are telescopes set up, so you can spy on them doing their thing (because bird-watching is cool now, trust us).

River Shenanigans

Down below, the River Wye is basically an outdoor adventure park. You can kayak, canoe, or take a chill boat trip if you’re more about the vibes than the arm workout. Pro tip: pack a picnic, because sandwiches always taste better with a scenic backdrop.

Puzzlewood: Where Magic Meets Moss

Stepping Into Another World

Next up, Puzzlewood—aka the forest that looks straight out of a fantasy movie. And that’s because… it literally is. “Star Wars,” “Doctor Who,” and plenty of other big-name productions have filmed here, so don’t be surprised if you half-expect to see a Stormtrooper or the TARDIS hiding behind a tree.

Historical Quirkiness

Turns out, this fairytale landscape was once an ancient iron ore mine (thanks, Romans). Over time, nature reclaimed it, turning the area into a maze of winding paths, mossy rock formations, and tree roots that look like they have a mind of their own.

Family Fun (Or Big Kid Fun)

Bring the kids—or just your inner child—because this place is a playground of secret paths and hidden nooks. There’s also a mini farm with donkeys and goats. And yes, the goats will try to steal your snacks.

Clearwell Caves: Go Deep or Go Home

Underground Wonder

Time to channel your inner Indiana Jones. Clearwell Caves are a series of natural caverns that have been mined for over 4,500 years. The result? A network of eerie, atmospheric tunnels that look straight out of a fantasy novel.

Mining 101 (But Make It Cool)

History lovers, this one’s for you. Learn about the blood, sweat, and pickaxes that went into mining iron ore here. Spoiler: it was not a cushy job.

Seasonal Shenanigans

If you think caves are just for history buffs, think again. Around Christmas, Clearwell Caves transforms into an underground festive wonderland, complete with twinkling lights and a grotto. And for the thrill-seekers? There’s ghost hunting. Because nothing says “good night’s sleep” like wandering through a spooky cave by lantern light.

Dean Forest Railway: All Aboard the Nostalgia Express

Steam-Powered Charm

For those who love a good throwback, hop aboard the Dean Forest Railway. This vintage steam train chugs its way through 4.5 miles of dreamy countryside, and yes, it’s as relaxing as it sounds.

History on Wheels

The stations and carriages are decked out in full retro glory, making you feel like you’ve accidentally time-travelled. Bonus points if you dress in full period costume (not required, but definitely encouraged for the ‘Gram).

Events That Go the Extra Mile

This railway doesn’t just do regular train rides—it goes full-on entertainment mode. Think murder mystery nights, Santa Specials, and even onboard beer festivals. Yes, you read that right: beer and trains. Peak multitasking.

Tintern Abbey: Gothic Gorgeousness

Awe-Inspiring Ruins

Tintern Abbey is the ultimate moody, Insta-worthy ruin. Founded in 1131, it’s all soaring arches, intricate stonework, and just the right amount of dramatic decay. If you’ve ever wanted to feel like the main character in a period drama, this is your moment.

Artistic Inspiration

Poet William Wordsworth wrote an entire poem about this place, and let’s be real, if it was good enough for him, it’s good enough for your next caption.

The Sculpture Trail: Art Meets Nature

Creative Strolls

Think of this as an outdoor art gallery, but instead of hushed whispers and overpriced coffee, you get fresh air and zero judgment for taking a million photos. The Sculpture Trail features large-scale installations dotted around the forest, blending art and nature in the coolest way possible.

Standout Pieces

Keep an eye out for Cathedral—a giant stained-glass window hanging between trees—and Iron Road, a series of carved railway sleepers that nod to the area’s industrial history. The whole thing is basically a giant treasure hunt, but for art lovers.

Final Thoughts: Pack Snacks and a Sense of Adventure

The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley isn’t just a place—it’s an experience. Whether you’re getting lost in enchanted woodlands, delving underground, or just soaking up the history, this region has a way of making you feel like part of the story. So, lace up your walking boots, charge your phone for maximum photo ops, and don’t forget to treat yourself to cake along the way. Adventure awaits!

Stay with your family and friends - 12 to 35 of you - in BHHL large holiday houses. Perfect Airbnb's dotted around the Forest of Dean to suit everyone. See a selection below but get in touch to see the full offers.

Big House Holiday Lets:

www.bhhl.co.uk

tel: 01600 732050

Email: enquiries@bhhl.co.uk

  • Holly Tree House

    Prices from £1,995.00

    Charming villa above Symonds Yat, sleeping 22 in 9 bedrooms overlooking River Wye. Two lounges, a large dining room and patio plus covered, outdoor Hot Tub and Games Room. Short walk to 3 pubs (with excellent food), river ferry, and flat riverside circular walk - super pet-friendly. Loads of activities inc canoes and paddle boards. verty safe and secure, no traffic. Ideal multi generation holiday cottage. Holly Tree House provides accommodation in an idyllic retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

    • 9 bedrooms sleeping 12 - 22
    • 8 Bath and Shower/Loos
    • Covered Hot Tub
    • Pet Friendly
    • 3 Pub/Restaurants walkable
  • The Anchor

    Prices from £2,150.00

    Set in the heart of Lydbrook in the Forest of Dean and previously know as The Anchor Inn, this cosy village pub, which dates back to the 15th century, is now a charmingly converted holiday cottage sleeping 20 in 7/8 ensuite bedrooms. Lovely Games Room and covered Hot Tub. Enclosed rear garden, pet friendly. Walk to village pubs, shop and chippie! Easy access to riverside. With Superfast Broadband and full Sky Film and Sports Pack it's ideal for work and leisure.

    • 7/8 ensuite bedrooms sleep 22
    • G/F room, sofa bed & bathroom
    • Dogs and other pets welcome
    • Covered Hot Tub
    • Dine 20 round one table
  • River Wye Lodge

    Prices from £3,150.00

    Converted Coaching Inn on the banks of the River Wye, with park and canoe launch - short walk to village shop, pub, Indian takeaway and fish and chip shop. Sleeps 26 in 12 bedrooms, 10 having glorious views of the River Wye. Accessibility ramp to the front door and the ground floor houses a wheelchair friendly twin room with an en-suite wet room. Huge dining room and lounge, 2 connected kitchens, playground outside. Games Room. Pet friendly.

    • 12 Bedrooms sleeping 26
    • Covered Hot Tub
    • Games Room
    • Dine 26 round one table
    • Twin disabled bedroom wet room en suite
  • Wye Rapids House

    Prices from £2,650.00

    13 bedroom (11 ensuite) converted hotel overlooking the River Wye rapids at Symonds Yat. Large dining room , bar, lounge, patio, riverside garden plus outdoor hot tub (that can be hired) and games room. Plenty of room to relax and enjoy the sights and sound of nature all around you. An ideal pet-friendly cottage for large group holidays. With flat walks and 3 nearby pubs and restaurants, Wye Rapids provides an idyllic retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life for up to 30 guests (26 adults max plus 4 children)

    • 11 ensuite Bedrooms plus family room and shared bathroom sleeps 26 adults plus 4 children
    • Hot tub hire available
    • All dine together
    • Fully commercial kitchen
    • Offroad parking for 16 cars
  • Forest House

    Prices from £2,750.00

    This 11 ensuite bedroom converted 4* Hotel sleeps up to 25 in the centre of Coleford, the heart of the Forest of Dean - Hot Tub, 2 Lounges, Games Room with pool table, Large dining room, fantastic kitchen. Off road walks and cycling from door. Pet friendly. Short walk to shops, pubs, restaurants. A perfect location for sampling the huge array of activities and attractions in the Forest of Dean.

    • 11 Ensuite bedrooms sleeping 25
    • Covered Hot Tub
    • Games Room with Pool Table
    • All Dine Together
    • Pet Friendly for 2 dogs
  • Pencraig Court

    Prices from £3,250.00

    Classic country house sleeping 36 in 11 bedrooms midway between Monmouth and Ross on Wye overlooking the river. Pet friendly, stunning rooms, large grounds, games room. On site 3 bed cottage sleeping a further 8 available. Large grounds and gardens and a drive with an extensive parking area, totalling 3.6 Acres. Hot tub hire available.

    • 11 Ensuite Bedrooms sleeping 36
    • Attached 3 Bed cottage sleeping 8
    • Games Rooms with Table Football and Pool table
    • Hot tub Hire available
    • Pet Friendly
  • Symonds Yat Lodge

    Prices from £3,950.00

    A comfortable 25 bedroom (all ensuite) converted guest accommodation situated on the banks for the River Wye. Huge dining room, lounge,bar, games / party room and mature gardend. With flat walks from the door Symonds Yat Lodge is the perfect place for celebrations and large group holidays. Pet friendly, parking. Sleeps 50 guests. Prices are based on 30 guests in 15 bedrooms with 10 extra bedrooms available at an additional charge.

    • 25 ensuite Bedrooms
    • All dine together in huge dining room
    • Licensed for Weddings - for up to 100 guests
    • Pet friendly
    • Country pub within 5 minute walk
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