Places to Visit in the Forest of Dean

Places
Index


West Forest Area


Caldicot Castle and Country Park

Visit Caldicot's magnificent medieval castle set in fifty-five acres of beautiful parkland. Discover the castle's past with a taped tour. Enjoy the tranquil gardens and grounds. Explore the children's activities and giant chess set. Visit the Gift Shop and Tea Room. Country park with picnic, barbecue and play areas. Free parking and toilets B4245 between Chepstow and Newport.

Church Road, Caldicot, Monmouthshire, NP26 4HU, Tel: 01291 420241

Open March to October, 11a.m. to 5p.m.

Email: caldicotcastle@monmouthshire.gov.uk
Website


 

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Clearwell Caves

See this unique part of Britain's Heritage hidden beneath the Royal Forest of Dean.

Iron ore has been mined here for nearly 3000 years to form an incredible system of underground tunnels and chambers, of which 8 large caverns are now open to the public.

Originally a natural cave system, it partially filled with iron ore, which has been mined extensively since the beginning of the iron age. Geological and mining displays show how the primitive miners worked and the slow development of mining techniques up to the present day.  The engine room contains several vintage engines, including the 1915 Ingersol Rand compressor used to drive the early pneumatic drills. The miners stores stocks not only souvenirs of your visit, but books and maps relating to mining, geology and local history.  We have a good selection of minerals from the mine and other parts of the world, as well as caving equipment.

Open 10am to 5pm every day, including Sundays and Bank Holidays.
1st March to 31st October

Caving trips and guided tours available throughout the year by appointment.

For further information tel. 01594-832535

[ Clearwell Village Page ]

Caves Website

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DBC Leisure

Station Road, Milkwall, Coleford, Glos, GL16 7LD, Tel: 01594 833940

Come clay shooting in the forest should you be a complete beginner or an experienced shot, looking for a change of scenery.

Beginners - Individual or group tuition

Corporate - Can be a variety of sporting targets tailored to suit shooters abilities, or a combination of tuition followed with a competition. Trophies or medals can be supplied for a small fee.

Multi Activity Days - Arranged in conjunction with other local businesses i.e. 4x4 off-road, quad biking and archery.

Private Shoots - Arranged at your own venue, for private parties, pre season warm up, fund raising etc. We will advise on suitability of site.

Catering - Food can be arranged at local inns and hotels or possibly on site. (Weather permitting)

We will try to produce a complete package to suit your budget.

Guns & cartridges can be supplied - FELT WADS ONLY!

Clay shooting is an outdoor activity and it is advisable to wear strong waterproof shoes and warm clothing.

Hearing & eye protection will be provided and we strongly advise they are used.

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Whitecliff Off Road Driving Centre

Whitecliff Quarry, Coleford, Gloucestershire, GL16 8NB, Tel: 01594 834666

4x4 OFF ROAD DRIVING

Whitecliff Off Road Driving Centre specialises in 4x4 courses for individuals or groups. We also run corporate events and stag & hen parties using out military vehicles, 4x4's, Hovercrafts, etc.

Lunch is pre-ordered for attendees.

An excellent day out guaranteed.

Courses available: Introductory 4x4, Advanced 4x4, Extreme 4x4.

Group & Corporate Events Hovercrafts, Mini Digger, 4x4 Marmon Truck, Alvis Stalwart, V8 Land Rovers/Range Rovers.

Lantra Professional 4x4 Driver Training Qualified Instructors

Officially Registered Site

Opening Hours: 9.30am - 4.30pm

Email: whitecliff@dial.pipex.com
Website

 

 

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Forest Adventure

Assisi, The Buckstone, Staunton, Coleford, Gloucestershire, GL16 8PD, Tel: 01594 834661

Provision of outdoor education courses in the Forest of Dean.

For schools, youth organisations, adult groups and companies.

Our activites provide a base for promoting self-esteem, co-operation and teamwork.

Highly experienced and qualified instructor team.

AALA (Adventure Activities License Authority) Registered/Approved

Email: info@forestadventure.co.uk


Website




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Mariana Art

Mariana Art, Tintern, Wye Valley, Tel: 01594 530484

The Forest of Dean is truly a painters paradise. With some of the country's most spectacular viewpoints, woodland scenery and seasonal variety, there should be no shortage of inspiration. Detailed below are a number of residential courses, creative breaks and one day workshops for beginners and improvers in painting and drawing.

Watercolour courses

Mariana Robinson is a highly experienced watercolour artist. She does not only teach you how to paint but also explains the use of colours, brush strokes and techniques to improve your painting skills. The courses are suitable for all levels of painters, including beginners. The courses take place in the Wye Valley where there is plenty to see and do. You can come alone, with a friend or a non painting partner.

Tailor made tuition for groups and individuals

Would you like to organise your own painting holiday in the Forest of Dean with personal tuition for yourself or a group of friends? Mariana offers tuition in watercolour to both individuals and groups, offering guidance on specific topics, techniques and planned according to your needs and experience.

Email: info@mariana-art.co.uk
Website

 

 


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Motiva Ropes Course & Adventure Services

Bracelands Drive, Nr Coleford, Gloucestershire, GL16 7NN, Tel: 01594 861762

Motiva offer a unique range of Adventure Services.
We guarantee quality adventure, excellent service and great value.

EXPERIENCE the ADVENTURE
realise YOUR potential

Motiva Ropes Course

The ultimate adventure facility for any group
Absorbing team initiatives at ground level
Mind-bending group challenges high up in the trees
Full-on adrenaline elements for individuals
Motiva Corporate Events

Unique team events that surpass delegate expectations
Innovative Option Packages tailored to YOUR needs and YOUR budget
Huge range of action packed activities
Motiva Action Adventure for Adults

Looking for great memories that will last a lifetime?
Fun packed adventure that will challenge, thrill and inspire
FREE! inside info on great accommodation, fantastic food and the best pubs.
Motiva Youth Adventure

Motiva Ropes Course - the ultimate adventure facility for young people
Fun and flexible sessions tailored to meet your needs
Low and high level challenges for teams and individuals
Professional and friendly staff with years of experience

For enquiries and booking:

Matthew Ralphs
Motiva Limited
The Firs
Hangerberry
Lydbrook
Gloucestershire
GL17 9QG

Email: info@motiva.co.uk
Website


 

 



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Puzzle Wood

Puzzle Wood is an area which has remained unaltered since it was transformed into tranquil woodland walks in the 1800's. It has been open to the public for some 50 years.

A fascinating open iron workings in beautiful surroundings.
A maze of paths with unique wooden seats and bridges enables the weathered and moss covered rocks to be seen at their best.

Roman iron mines, Souvenir Shop, Tea garden, Sykes Trophy winner 1984
School parties catered for by prior arrangement

1 mile south of Coleford on the B4228

Open 11am to 6pm (Easter to the end of October)
Closed Mondays except Bank Holidays
No pets

Tel: 01594-833187

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Goodrich Castle

Standing on a hill overlooking the village whose name it bears, the castle guards the river crossing on the old Roman road from Monmouth to Gloucester. Built by the Normans, it was heavily improved in the 13th century.  The keep, a sqaure three storey tower, is still there and the whole castle is surrounded by a deep ditch dug into the local red sandstone and reached over a drawbridge.

Various summer special medieval events.

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Kingfisher Cruises Kingfisher River Cruises

From Symonds Yat East, daily.

Symonds Yat is world famous for its natural river scenery. The river winds its way through Symonds Yat gorge and village, dividing it into east and west. Our trips which last around 35 minutes start at 11am and go on until sunset. A full commentary is provided, telling of the natural beauty and history of he area. Evening trips with bar and buffet parties by arrangement.

Telephone Ros or Gerald on 0831 297672 or 01600 891063

 More on Kingfisher Cruises

[ Symonds Yat ]
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Symonds Yat and the Wye Valley

Symonds Yat Rock is well known for it's magnificent viewpoint which overlooks  the beautiful scenery  of the Wye valley as the river twists through the gorge.  Symonds Yat rock is situated in a heavily wooded limestone outcrop with cliffs 120 metres high.  

Symonds Yat is popular all year round with different attractions in all of the seasons.  At the bottom of the valley there are a range of visitor attractions including a man-powered rope ferry over the river Wye, the maze and the Heritage Centre nearby on the downward hillside. There is a visitor centre at the top of the hill beside the viewpoint.

 More on Symonds Yat & Wye Valley
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Wye Pursuits - The Outdoor Adventure Company

Riverside House, Bishopswood, Kerne Bridge, nr. Ross on Wye, HR9 5QX, Tel: 01600 891199


Our centre on the banks of the beautiful River Wye at Kerne Bridge is the perfect setting for your Outdoor Adventure. Caving White Water Rafting Canoe Hire Kayak/Canadian Canoes Multi Activity Courses Team Building Climbing Abseiling Whatever you enjoy Wye Pursuits is the choice for you!


Website



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Perrygrove Railway

Coleford, Glos GL16 8QB
Tel/Fax: 01594 834991

Narow gauge steam in the Forest of Dean.
Unlimited trips, woodland walks, and for the children Treasure hunt in the woods and indoor village with secret passages.

Easy to find on B4228, half a mile south of Coleford

See the What's On Pages for Steam Days

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Hopewell Colliery Museum

Cannop Hill, Coleford.
B4226 Coleford to Speech House Road

Walk through a true Forest of Dean Freemine.
See mine workings, some date to 1820's. See the old mine working tools on diplay and visit the cafe.

Open March to October daily 10am to 4pm
Admission: Adults £3, Child £2.
Phone 01594 810706 (Museum)
01594 832216 (home)

[ Forest Freeminers ]

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Wyedean Canoe & Adventure Centre

Holly Barn, Symonds Yat Rock, Coleford,Gloucestershire,GL16 7NZ, Tel: 01594 833238/0

The Premier Outdoor Centre of the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley Courses and activities organised to fit your intinery. Vast choice of educational tours and visits. Choice of 20 activities with nationally qualified and experienced instructors. A centre with a most enviable position overlooking Symonds Yat Rock and a view for 50 miles. Set in 18 acres of fields and surrounded by Forest and the River Wye. All activities can be carried out within walking distance. Pre-visits welcome.

Email: wcc@wyedean.co.uk

Website


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