Having lived most of my life in this area which is only about a forty minute drive to the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire, I have never ever been there. It is one of those places that people always talk about as being brilliant for families and great for taking children and it has been on the list of places to visit for some time but it has eluded us and I was determined that this year, we would go and explore to see if it was a good as people said.
The Forest of Dean itself covers a huge area (526.4 km² to be precise) and holds endless possibilities of activities; whether you are looking for a gentle stroll, something more adventurous, a ride on a steam train, cycling or visiting a museum, it really does have something for everyone.
We decided on a visit to Puzzlewood. One of the children had picked up a leaflet about Puzzlewood at a service station once and it sounded like the perfect place for a family day out.
Described as a magical forest, Puzzlewood has lots of history both recent and past. There is a board showing the many famous faces that have visited Puzzlewood as it is a popular place to film both television and film. It is easy to see why with its maze of pathways and the amazing backdrop of not just the trees and plants but the gnarled tree roots, rock cavities and exposed caves which are dramatic and unique.
It is very eerie and there are plenty of things to see whilst you climb up steps, cross bridges and jump across stepping-stones. There are a few things to look out for as you walk around but it is just a calm and serene place to explore. We loved it.
Once back out of the forest, there is an outdoor play area, an indoor and outdoor maze and some farm animals to explore along with a picnic area and a cafe which makes a lovely cup of tea.
The play areas are more suited to younger children and A was in her element but Puzzlewood itself is suitable for everyone to explore and enjoy. I would definitely recommend a visit.
Looks like a fabulous place for exploring – happy to hear you had a brilliant day x
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We’ve been a few times and really enjoy it, it’s glorious isn’t it? I think it’s better when there’s been no rain for a while though, the paths are quite treacherous otherwise.
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You and me both! I’m always hearing how nice it is, yet have never been! It definitely sounds (and looks) like a great place to visit. Maybe we’ll make it there this summer.
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If you enjoyed puzzle wood you should visit the sculpture trail also at Beechenhurst, after a well signposted walk discovering swings, musical instruments and a giants chair there’s a playground, open space to run around and play football, plus a cafe, gift shop and BBQ areas
Funnily enough we stopped there on the way home as my daughter needed the toilet and it looked amazing, we are definitely going to go there as it looks great for the kids and the older two especially
we lived in the Forest of Dean 1994-2002 and i must say i couldn’t fault it when it came to raising a young family, eldest was 13 when we moved away, so many things for them to do relatively cheaply and freely
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Its a fab place, the forest of dean is excellent place to visit lots to see and do there! A lovely place to grow up!
Yes I am annoyed with myself that this is the first time I have ever been, we will definitely go more often now that we have discovered how lovely it is
Do I spy lots of wild garlic?!
As you know, I adore forests and this has been on my list for a long time. Just need an excuse to get over to that part of the country now.
You do, well spotted, it smelt amazing. It is well worth a visit
Looks a great place to explore – and love the look on your girl’s face in that last photo 🙂 #timetraveller
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Great photos. This looks like a place my boy would love to explore. Love woodland trails. #timetraveller
Sabrina x
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What a beautiful place to visit. I love the middle picture with the sun rays especially, stunning! 🙂 #timetraveller
What a fantastic place to visit. Sounds right up our street! Forest of Dean has been high on our list of places to go back to this year. Going to have to check out Puzzlewood now too – it looks like something straight out of a Lord of the Rings forest! #timetraveller
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It really is an amazing place, I would definitely recommend it if you are in the Forest of Dean.
It looks like the perfect day out! I have never visited the Forest of Dean but your post makes me want to.
Thanks so much for linking up to #TimeTraveller I really appreciate it and apologies for the enormous delay in getting back to you, half term and work got in the way this time.
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