The Forest of Dean features historic sites like Tintern Abbey, Raglan Castle, and several other castles, with origins dating back to the 12th century. Ancient stone bridges and ruins dot the landscape, telling stories of the past. The River Severn and Wye meander through the area, offering peaceful spots for picnics, relaxing by the water, or enjoying water activities such as canoeing, paddle boarding and fishing.

A network of scenic forest tracks weaves through the hamlet where The Old Stores sits, perfect for leisurely strolls or invigorating hikes. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy peaceful country roads, forest trails, and challenging hill routes perfect for mountain biking and cycling adventures. With stunning views and diverse terrain, it’s a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking active outdoor experiences in Gloucestershire’s natural beauty.

Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy woodland ponds, stream trout fishing, and coarse fishing on the River Wye, with popular spots including Cannop Ponds, Cannop Brook, and Forest Carp Lake. Day tickets are typically required for fishing.

For thrill-seekers, activities like rock climbing, caving, and canoeing await at Symonds Yat (10.5 miles), while Go Ape at Mallards Pike (5 miles) and downhill mountain biking at Sallow Valleys (4 miles) add extra excitement.

The Forest of Dean is a premier birdwatching destination, ideal for spotting species like goshawks, hawfinches, pied flycatchers, and nightjars. Key sites include Symonds Yat Rock and Woorgreens, with expert-led tours available to help visitors explore diverse habitats such as woodlands and heathlands.

Explore charming towns like Coleford, Lydney, Monmouth, and Ross-on-Wye, all within easy reach of The Old Stores. Each town offers unique attractions, including local shops, delis, cafes, and craft galleries. The area also features excellent pubs and eateries, many listed at The Old Stores for your convenience. To help you make the most of your visit, we provide maps and guidebooks for walking and cycling routes, allowing you to discover the rich natural beauty and fascinating history of the Forest of Dean.

Explore the Historic and Natural Highlights of The Forest of Dean

The Forest of Dean, located in the heart of Gloucestershire, is renowned for its ancient woodlands, scenic rolling hills, and stunning valleys. This breathtaking landscape offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich history, providing visitors with a truly unique outdoor experience in one of England’s most treasured areas

The Forest of Dean: An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Gloucestershire

Visitor Highlights

Here are some inspiring ideas for sights to see and activities to enjoy

Nearby Puzzlewood, a magical woodland and film location

The Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail, a great place to wander beneath the towering trees

Discover panoramic Symonds Yat Rock

Follow riverside trails and woodland paths rich with birds and wildlife

Enjoy peaceful picnic spots with unforgettable views and grab a picnic at The Pantry Deli in St Briavels or the delightful Forest Deli in Coleford (pre-order)

Canoe or kayak along the beautiful River Wye

Try stand-up paddleboarding on calm stretches of the river

Mountain biking at Forest of Dean Cycle Centre

High ropes and zip lines at Go Ape

Walk the Offa’s Dyke Path

Explore the historic Tintern Abbey, Raglan, Goodrich or Chepstow Castles

Visit local villages, independent cafés, & country pubs

Treat yourself to a delicious evening meal or Sunday lunch at the nearby pub, The Ostrich in Newland - it’s scrummy!!

Sunlight filtering through tall pine trees in a dense forest.
A lush green forest with trees and purple wildflowers on the forest floor.
Group of cyclists riding on a forested, paved trail surrounded by tall trees.
Ruins of a medieval stone church with large arched windows and an ornate doorway, set against a bright blue sky.
Scenic view of a river winding through a forested valley with colorful autumn foliage and rolling hills under a cloudy sky.
A group of wild boars, including adults and piglets, walking in a forested area.
Close-up of a falcon perched on a rocky surface, showing its back and head turned to the side.
Two women and a dog in a canoe on a river surrounded by trees, with one woman paddling and the dog standing at the front.
View of a calm river with trees on both sides, blue sky, and a person in a kayak on the right side.
A bird of prey perched on a wooden branch outdoors with foliage in the background.
A man with a beard wearing a gray hoodie and a gray and white trucker hat fishing by a river, holding a fishing rod with both hands.
Morning mist over a calm lake with trees on the left and tall grass in the foreground, with sunlight breaking through.
A small bird with brown and white feathers standing on a mossy tree branch in a lush green forest.
A scenic aerial view of a river winding through green fields and dense forests under a cloudy sky.
Sunset over a calm river with trees along the bank and a small suspension bridge in the foreground.