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From 2009 and leading up to the 2012 Olympics, the Forest of Dean and Cotswolds are staking a claim as Britain's Rural Capital of Culture.

This is on the basis of the incredible range and diversity of events, festivals, craftspeople and artists in this area.

There is so much more to the Forest than just fantastic scenery and outdoor activities, why not take a peek inside and see what else this magical place has to offer.

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Whether you're a first time visitor, or returning to rediscover its charms, you'll find the best in hospitality, along with spectacular scenery, a wealth of wildlife and a fascinating heritage.

However if you only have a day, you'll just scratch the surface of what this wonderful place has to offer. So why not stay a bit longer and discover more of the Forest's charms, it won't take long before you fall under its spell.

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Said to have inspired the likes of J.R.R.Tolkien, J.K.Rowling and Dennis Potter, "Gloucestershire's greatest natural wonder", the Forest of Dean, is best explored by following The Royal Forest Route, which takes visitors on a 20-mile tour of the spectacular broad-leaf forest.

Springtime is one of the best times of the year to follow this route, when many areas, such as the Soudley Valley are filled with the most spectacular bluebells.

welcome to the forest of dean

Welcome to the Forest of Dean a genuinely magical place, where you can really get away from it all and enjoy yourself. The Forest of Dean, the 'Queen of Forests', has something for everyone - unique and fascinating heritage, spectacular and varied landscapes, plus warm and friendly hospitality.

This special area became the country's first National Forest Park in 1938 and is England's largest oak forest. Tucked between the rivers Wye, Leadon and Severn in western Gloucestershire, it has always been a place apart, living life in its own way.

Sound the ideal escape? It's actually really easy to reach, so perfect for short breaks or spur-of-the-moment getaways. Whether you're looking to stay one night or one week, there is a great range of quality assessed accommodation available to book online, from historic hotels and inns, welcoming B&B's with home-cooked breakfast, to cosy country cottages with real log fires and great campsites where you can immerse yourself in the great outdoors.

The 2010 Visitor Guide is available to download or order now!

Enjoy your visit.

adventure forest
active forest

Go extreme and up the adrenalin with some exciting, adventure activities.

2010 Wyedean Forest Rally
Events

13 February 2010

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