The summer is over, children have gone back to school and many families are looking ahead to their summer holidays next year. But the holiday season isn’t over yet. Autumn is the perfect time to visit the Forest of Dean. For couples or groups who want to get away now the hustle and bustle of the school holidays are over. A UK break at this time of year gives you the chance to enjoy some peace and reflection or to enjoy everything the area has to offer without the crowds.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, nature lover, or just fancy getting away from it all for a weekend there’s something for everyone in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. If you’re looking for a reason to visit, look no further, we’ve got something for everyone.
For Outdoor Enthusiasts
The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley are a walkers paradise. With dozens of mapped walking routes to choose from there is something to suit all abilities. Whether you want a strenuous hike or a relaxing stroll you’re spoilt for choice. The countryside around Gloucestershire and where the Forest of Dean meets the Wye Valley is arguably at its most beautiful from October right through the winter. As the leaves begin to change colour and fall from the trees the landscape changes dramatically to reveal some stunning vistas.
The local tourist board offers 12 circular walking routes on their website taking in the River Wye, Clearwell Caves, Symonds Yat and the town of Ross on Wye. We have several walks straight from our front door (download our Tudor Farmhouse Hotel App on Apple or Androids), or venture further afield to the Forestry Commission sites, including the Sculpture Trail at Beechenhurst Lodge. You could also visit one of the many castles in the area (including Chepstow, Raglan and Goodrich) or visit the beautiful Tintern Abbey.
For the more adventurous you have the option to hire a bike from Wye Bikes or bring your own and store it in our cycle storage. Or enjoy the countryside from the river Wye and hire a canoe for a half or full day. We can provide picnic baskets or packed lunches for all your trips out. You can find out more about our Autumn Leaves Break here.
Forest Bathing
Forest bathing is a meditative practice that is rising in popularity as more people enjoy its health and wellbeing benefits. Forest bathing is a Japanese practice of relaxation; known in Japan as shinrin yoku. The simple method of being calm and quiet amongst the trees, observing nature around you whilst breathing deeply can help both adults and children de-stress and boost health and wellbeing in a natural way. You can take yourself Forest Bathing (Forest England has more information here) or follow a trained Forest Therapy Guide.
Forest bathing is a slow practice and said to have many benefits including lowering blood pressure, reducing stress, improving empathy and creativity, and boosting your immune systems. If you would prefer to join a led session you could book onto our Soul Soother Break/.
For Foodies
The Forest of Dean is well known for the quality of food made by local producers. We offer a winter escape for explorers and foodies. You can join us for two nights this winter and enjoy dinner, bed and breakfast using all the finest local ingredients including scones on check in and tasting menu on one evening. The experience will also include a food & drink trail map so you can visit some of our suppliers and local farm shops during your stay. Check out our Winter Foodie Break here.
This year we are really excited to bring our Christmas Craft Retreat. From November 29th to December 1st we are inviting guests to join us for what will be a unique and magical experience. This two night, three day retreat is for you if you love Christmas and you love Crafts! You will come away with Christmas items for your home and maybe even a couple of gifts for friends and family! During the retreat you will have the opportunity to make a beautiful embroidered hoop, enamel jewellery, design your own printed textile and we’ll be ending the experience with a festive wreath making workshop. Find out more or book here Christmas Craft Retreat
Hopefully we’ve given you lots of inspiration for making the most of your time here in the Forest of Dean. But if you’re coming for total rest and relaxation why not just grab a book and curl up in a comfy chair next to one of our crackling open fires. We’d like nothing more than to welcome you to slow down and rest at Tudor Farmhouse Hotel.