Attractions and Places To See around the Forest Of Dean - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around the Forest Of Dean include a diverse range of notable landmarks, striking natural features, and rich cultural sites. This historical region in Gloucestershire, England, is one of the country's largest ancient forests, covering over 42 square miles of mixed woodland. The area is characterized by vast woodlands, open glades, rugged valleys, and the River Wye forming its western boundary. Its history encompasses Roman mining, medieval hunting grounds, and significant industrial heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around the Forest Of Dean
- The most popular attractions is Tintern Abbey, a historical site that lies on the banks of the River Wye. Its exquisitely preserved exterior walls remain standing, making it an atmospheric site to explore.
- Another must-see spot is May Hill Summit, a distinctive summit offering far-reaching views towards the Welsh border and over the River Severn. Visitors can enjoy the panoramic vistas from its top.
- Visitors also love Verderers' Trail (Blue), Forest of Dean, a forest mountain bike trail. It is known for its mix of hardpack and single trail, suitable for various skill levels.
- Forest Of Dean is known for its historical sites, natural viewpoints, and cycling trails. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to forest adventures.
- The attractions around the Forest Of Dean are appreciated by the komoot community, with 88 upvotes and 35 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
May Hill Summit
Highlight • Summit
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Tintern Abbey
Highlight • Historical Site
The abbey fell into ruin after the Dissolution but its fame didn't fade for long. In fact, it's been the subject of poetry and art since the 18th century, notably featuring in William Turner's painting, The Chancel and Crossing of Tintern Abbey. It's under the management of the Welsh government's Cadw department and there's an entry fee if you'd like to walk around the ruins.
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Verderers' Trail (Blue), Forest of Dean
Highlight • Forest
A mix of hardpack and single trail. It gets a bit puddly but it's all quite grippy even in the wet. I always forget how much uphill there is in this loop! Worth it all for the descent at the end!
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Colliers Trail, Forest of Dean
Highlight • Forest
For those with big-league MTB abilities, the Cannop Cycling Centres offers a bewildering variety of downhill and mountain bike trails. Plus a shop and café for relaxing at afterwards. Just bring your body protectors! 😊
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Severn Bridge Cycleway
Highlight • Bridge
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Tintern Wireworks Bridge
Highlight • Monument
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Tidenham Tunnel
Highlight • Cycleway
1 April -30 April 8am-6pm
1 May - 15 Aug 7am-7pm
16 Aug - 30 Sept 8am-6pm
1 Oct - 31 March Tunnel closed
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Cathedral by Kevin Atherton
Highlight • Viewpoint
This phenomenal work of stained glass hangs above the trail, creating a sublime window into the cathedral of the forest itself. When the sun catches it, the effect is fantastic.
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The Iron Road Sculpture by Keir Smith
Highlight • Structure
It’s a cool sculpture - great for concentrating hard and running over! Here’s what the Forest of Dean gang say about it:
‘Twenty evenly spaced railway sleepers on the gentle curve of a disused railway line bring the spirit of the Forest’s industrial past to life. Skilfully carved out of the wood are poetic images of natural or industrial life — a feather, a leaf, a wheel, a factory or a cloud. The jar with water pouring out refers to the stream running under the embankment. The wood is a Eucalyptus called Jarrah, and the sleepers were obtained from the London Underground.’
Love it! Take the time to check out each individual sleeper carving.
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St Michael’s Church, Tintern
Highlight • Religious Site
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Popular around Forest Of Dean
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Tips from the Community
Tidenham Tunnel opening hours 1 April -30 April 8am-6pm 1 May - 15 Aug 7am-7pm 16 Aug - 30 Sept 8am-6pm 1 Oct - 31 March Tunnel closed
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Lovely circular route. Great for all abilities, takes in some beautiful apota
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Enjoy the walk up from Clifford Mesne, and then taken in the expansive views. Don't miss the copse at the top, planted to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee.
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Intermediate to advance ride, moderate fitness level. Some steep climbs but great fun. Can get really busy with visitors on the weekend, so arrive early. Beautiful, serene, thrilling in places, really great fun. I found the 2nd half of the ride the most enjoyable, with rollers, loads of berms, and switchbacks. Honestly a great locations, lots of different levels of trail to try after you finish on this one.
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Great for all skill levels, full loop or just sections MTB or Gravel great surface and plenty to see along the way. Recommended day out with stop points and skills areas along the route. Check out cafes at Beachenhurst, Mallards Pike, mobile cafe at Cannop Ponds.
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The Verderer blue run needs decent fitness & moderate skill level, we hired EMTB’s from “Wye Bikes” so was easy on the inclines. We picked up the last part of the red which was technical, narrow & the tight turns made it more challenging on a heavy emtb , Canop is a great place , food avail £8.50 for a burrito so expensive
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in the Forest of Dean?
The Forest of Dean is rich in natural beauty. You can visit May Hill Summit for far-reaching views towards the Welsh border and over the River Severn. The region also features vast woodlands, open glades, rugged valleys, and the scenic River Wye, which forms its western boundary. Serene spots like Cannop Ponds are ideal for picnicking and birdwatching.
Are there historical sites to visit in the Forest of Dean?
Yes, the Forest of Dean has a rich history. Explore the exquisitely preserved Tintern Abbey on the banks of the River Wye. You can also visit St Briavels Castle, a 12th-century Norman castle that served as the Forest's administrative center. The Dean Heritage Centre offers further insights into the region's past.
What activities are available for families with children?
Families have many options. Puzzlewood offers a magical woodland experience with twisted trees and moss-covered pathways. The Dean Heritage Centre features a woodland playground and the popular Gruffalo Trail. For adventure, Go Ape! provides treetop challenges, while Perrygrove Railway offers a heritage steam railway with woodland trails and treehouses. Many cycling trails, like the Colliers Trail, are also family-friendly.
Where can I find unique artistic installations in the forest?
The Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail features unique artworks integrated into the forest landscape. Notable pieces include Cathedral by Kevin Atherton, made of stained glass, and The Iron Road Sculpture by Keir Smith.
Are there opportunities for cycling or mountain biking?
Absolutely. The Forest of Dean is well-known for its cycling trails. The Verderers' Trail (Blue) is a popular mountain bike trail suitable for various skill levels, offering a mix of hardpack and single trail. The Colliers Trail is another excellent option, known for being family-friendly. For more routes, explore our guides on Gravel biking around the Forest Of Dean.
What are some good hiking trails in the area?
The region offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can enjoy trails around May Hill Summit, which is crossed by the Gloucestershire Way and Wysis Way. The Forest of Dean Woodland Trail provides a pleasant forest experience. For more options, check out our guides for Easy hikes around the Forest Of Dean and Hiking around the Forest Of Dean.
Can I explore underground attractions?
Yes, you can delve into the region's mining history. Clearwell Caves offers an underground journey through ancient iron ore mines, showcasing 4,500 years of mining history. Hopewell Colliery is another site providing insights into this heritage.
What are some notable viewpoints in the Forest of Dean?
For breathtaking vistas, visit Symonds Yat Rock, which offers panoramic views of the River Wye and is an excellent spot for birdwatching. May Hill Summit also provides far-reaching views towards the Welsh border and over the River Severn.
Is the Forest of Dean suitable for wildlife spotting or birdwatching?
The Forest of Dean is home to diverse wildlife, including fallow deer, wild boar, and various bird species. Symonds Yat Rock is particularly known for peregrine falcon sightings. Cannop Ponds is another serene spot where you might spot kingfishers and dragonflies.
What is the best time of year to visit the Forest of Dean?
The Forest of Dean offers attractions year-round. Spring brings fresh greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases spectacular fall foliage. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities, and even winter offers a unique, tranquil beauty, though some attractions like the Tidenham Tunnel have seasonal closures.
Are there any unique or magical woodlands to discover?
Puzzlewood is renowned as an ancient, magical woodland with twisted trees and moss-covered pathways. It's believed to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien and has been a filming location for major productions, offering a truly otherworldly experience.
What kind of industrial heritage can I learn about?
The Forest of Dean has a rich industrial past rooted in Roman mining, and later, coal mining and ironworks. You can explore this heritage at Clearwell Caves and Hopewell Colliery, which offer tours into ancient mines. The Dean Heritage Centre also provides extensive exhibits on the region's industrial history.
Are there attractions suitable for those interested in railways?
Yes, the Perrygrove Railway is a heritage steam railway that provides a charming experience, particularly appealing to families. It offers woodland trails, adventure play, and treehouses alongside the railway journey.
What are some serene spots for relaxation or picnics?
Cannop Ponds is a beautiful and serene location perfect for picnicking, fishing, and birdwatching, with peaceful woodland trails. Mallards Pike Lake is another tranquil spot within the forest, offering various activities and a peaceful atmosphere.
Most popular routes around the Forest Of Dean
Most popular attractions around the Forest Of Dean
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