From the best places to sip real ale or sample Stinking Bishop, to historic structures that proudly champion its heritage, discover 8 of the Forest of Dean’s lesser-known local highlights.
Spanning arts festivals, onion fayres and the chance to see daffodils spring up across the Golden Triangle, there’s so much to look forward to in the Forest of Dean in 2022.
Families considering a move to the forest are spoilt for choice when it comes to attractions. The Dean Heritage Centre in Soudley explores the area’s rich history in a family-friendly way with plenty of exhibits indoors and a Gruffalo trail to follow within the five-acre grounds, while Clearwell Caves gives families the opportunity to explore a natural cavern system and learn about the Forest Freeminers who used to dig for iron ore there.
Get up close to eagles, hawks and owls at Newent’s International Centre for Birds of Prey, take a ride on a steam train down the Dean Forest Railway, or kick off your shoes and take to the water at Wenchford, where the shallow Blackpool Brook provides a perfect paddling spot.
The designs for two new works of art, due to be installed at Lydney Harbour, have been revealed – representing the change in the harbour’s use from industrial to leisure and linked with a walking trail..