Tab1
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.
Tab 2
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.
Tab 3
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.
the great outdoors
Whether you are looking for an action-packed, adrenalin-fuelled holiday or simply a relaxing and quiet short break, the Forest of Dean has a wonderful range of activities, with something to suit all tastes and abilities. For walkers, there are numerous waymarked routes and footpaths throughout the area including the long distance trails of Offa's Dyke Path and the Wye Valley Walk, as well as several circular routes through historic market towns, picturesque villages and some of the most scenic parts of the forest. The forest is perfect for cyclists. The Family Cycle Path runs through the heart of the forest, safely away from traffic, while a dedicated off-road area behind Pedalabikeaway Cycle Hire is popular with mountain bikers.
The Wye Valley is renowned for its climbing, abseiling, canoeing and kayaking activities. The forest itself is underlain by a complex network of caves and caverns, making underground exploration a unique experience, while overground you can try mountain boarding, quad biking, off-road driving, archery, even llama and camel trekking! For those with a head for heights, there are superb high wire adventure courses set within beautiful woodlands, plus the area boasts one of the country's top inland diving centres.
walking & cycling
Long distance trails, lakeside strolls, safe cycling and some superb scenery.
forest activities
Be inspired and amazed by the range of outdoor leisure and adventure activities.
adrenalin & adventure
Up the adrenalin and raise the excitement levels with some extreme activities.
viewpoints
Get a bird's eye view and see for miles from some of the Forest's best viewpoints.
picnic sites
There is not better place to enjoy al fresco dining than at one of the many picnic sites.
