Nature Safari

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Nature Safari

October 18-20, 2026

PRICES

This two night package includes:

  • Two night’s accommodation with breakfast each morning.
  • Dinner on both nights.
  • Expert guiding with Ed.
  • Transport in a luxury minibus
  • Packed lunch each day, or lunch back at the Tudor Farmhouse if it’s particularly cold.

The costs are:

£595 per person based on two sharing a hen or hatchling room.

£125 single occupancy supplement.

Call us on 01594 833046 to book or click below to send an email enquiry.

AUTUMN ITINERARY ENQUIRE NOW

We’ve teamed up with Ed Drewitt, naturalist, broadcaster and wildlife detective to provide an opportunity to unwind, be outdoors and explore the forest landscape.

Over several days we will be exploring the forest’s natural side, walking around beautiful ponds, looking across stunning views and watching wildlife which may include displaying raptors such as peregrines and goshawk, fallow deer, wild boar and woodland birds.

Discover more about what’s shaped the Forest of Dean – from it’s famous scowles to the use of different trees; much of this is now hidden among the trees. As we’re out and about you’ll hear more about some of these places and the clues that they were once here.  And you never know what stunning view or woodland scenery may be round the corner. 

In October, we will be looking for autumn flocks of birds as they move through the forest and waterbirds building in numbers on the ponds. Wild boar will be busy foraging for nuts while deer will be grazing the last grasses before their turn to winter foliage such as ivy and holly. The forest’s trees will be beginning to wind down and their leaves changing colour. Birdsong, after a summer lapse, will be starting up again with robins taking the lead.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Nature Retreat is a two-night guided wildlife and wellbeing experience in the Forest of Dean led by naturalist Ed Drewitt. The package includes accommodation with breakfast, dinner on both evenings, guided excursions, transport in a luxury minibus and packed lunches or lunch back at the hotel depending on the weather.

Depending on the season, guests may spot wild boar, deer, kingfishers, peregrines, goshawks, woodland birds and waterbirds across the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Autumn retreats may also include sightings of migrating birds and fungi, while spring retreats focus on birdsong, nesting species and woodland wildlife.

Ed Drewitt is a naturalist, zoologist, author and wildlife guide with extensive experience leading nature tours and safaris. He has worked with organisations including the RSPB, Bristol Zoo and the University of Bristol, and specialises in birds, wildlife behaviour and helping people connect with nature.

Yes, the retreat is suitable for anyone with an interest in wildlife, nature and the outdoors. No previous birdwatching or wildlife experience is needed, as Ed provides expert guidance throughout the retreat in an accessible and engaging way.

We recommend bringing comfortable outdoor clothing, waterproofs and sturdy walking footwear suitable for woodland trails and countryside walks. Binoculars are useful if you have them, although the focus is on enjoying and learning about nature rather than specialist equipment.

The Forest of Dean is one of the UK’s richest natural landscapes, with ancient woodland, ponds, heathland and dramatic viewpoints providing habitats for a wide variety of wildlife. Its peaceful surroundings and biodiversity make it an ideal location for reconnecting with nature and exploring the outdoors.