Forest of Dean
One of England's largest ancient forests and a working forest managed by Forestry England. Designated the first National Forest Park in 1938. Originally a medieval royal hunting ground, later became vital for timber production for the navy's Tudor warships. The Victorian era saw it transform into an industrial landscape with coal mines, ironworks and tramways, traces of which remain among the trees today.
Area: 2,342.9 ha
Region: Forest of Dean
Address: Forest of Dean, United Kingdom
Website: www.forestryengland.uk/the-forest-of-dean
🧭 Get directionsOpening hours
No specific universal hours listed, but some facilities are seasonal (e.g., Wenchford toilets are seasonal, Cannop Ponds catering van is seasonal).
Best for
Walking, cycling, mountain biking, horse riding, fishing, Go Ape adventure activities, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and exploring industrial heritage sites.
Wildlife
Diverse wildlife habitats. Home to over 200 tree species. Feral wild boar present in the forest; visitors should not approach or feed them. Peregrine falcon nesting viewing at Symonds Yat Rock. Nagshead Nature Reserve managed in partnership with the RSPB.
History
Medieval royal hunting ground origins. Later became vital for timber production for the navy's Tudor warships. Victorian era industrial landscape with coal mines, ironworks and tramways, traces of which remain. Historic features include industrial archaeological sites (Darkhill Ironworks, Titanic Steelworks) and medieval heritage sites. Cyril Hart Arboretum contains collection of over 200 trees from around the world, some dating to the 1900s.
Reviews
So beautiful 😍 so many lovely forest sites to see, with lakes, ponds, activities, walks, bike trails, view points, the river Wye. Stunning.
Spent a week over Christmas and it was simply stunning scenery. Shame about the weather 😕
This place absolutely amazing well looked after, the forest was used as a backdrop in many movies such as Harry Potter and King Arthur… it is believed to be the inspiration behind lord of the ring’s forest