The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley is brimming with festivity from December right through into January. There are craft markets, bazaars, winter woodlands, underground theatre, inspiring choral recitals, a world of festive events and experiences this Christmas. Here's our round-up of what’s on this season to get you into the festive mood. 

Christmas Wreath Making  

Tudor Farmhouse, Clearwell 

1 – 3, and 10 December  

Working in partnership with Josephine’s Fabulous Flowers. Learn how to make a seasonal wreath using locally grown flowers and foliage.  

book now button


Breakfast with santa image

Breakfast with Santa  

Taurus Crafts, Lydney, 

7 and 14 December 
Enjoy a festive breakfast with a splash of Christmas magic. Children will get to meet Santa and receive a special gift.   


Christmas Bazaar 

Dean Heritage Centre, Soudley, 

10 December 

Enjoy a range of wonderful family activities, Christmas market, Gruffalo trail and an elf workshop. 


Dick Whittington Panto Image

Dick Whittington Panto 

Whitemead Forest Park, Lydney, 

22 and 23 December  

One of the best loved Pantomimes Dick Whittington and his characterful cat are bound to bring a smile to children’s faces as we approach the big day.  

book now button


Archie and the Unicorn 

Clearwell Caves, Clearwell, 

Various dates throughout December, 

When the snow begins to fall, Archie decides to build something different, follow his adventures as unexpected and magical things begin to happen. 

Meet Father Christmas, then follow this magical tale as you walk through the caverns and the story unfolds.  


small train decorated for Christmas

Twilight Trains  

Perrygrove Railway, Coleford, 

Various dates throughout December, 

See the beautiful Perrygrove Railway illuminated for Christmas and take a twilight train through the winter scenery followed by meet and greet with Santa.  


santa train in the snow

Santa Specials 

Dean Forest Railway, Lydney, 

Various dates throughout December, 

Take a magical 8.5 mile trip through the medieval forest to Parkend on The Dean Forest Railway. This Christmas enjoy visit with Santa and his elves aboard a real steam train.  


Narth Singers Christmas Concert 

St Nicholas Church, Trelleck, 

15 December, 

Enjoy choral Christmas music in the beautiful surroundings of St Nicholas Church in Trelleck, Monmouth.  


silver ring Make a Silver Spinner Ring 

Taurus Crafts, Lydney, 

18 December  

Make your own silver spinner ring at The Studio Jewellery School, learn artisan silversmithing techniques and a little of the history of silver and hallmarking. The perfect handmade gift for a loved one.  

book now button


Great Gatsby New Year’s Eve Party 

Hope and Anchor Hotel, Ross-on-Wye, 
31 December 

A New Year's Eve party inspired by the Roaring 20s, with live music and dancing that's guaranteed to be a night to remember. Let the countdown to midnight begin with two mouth-watering cocktails hand-crafted by our expert mixologists and a selection of delectable canapes, before sitting down to a fine dining experience complete with a three-course meal.  

book now button


We hope this round up inspires visitors to support our local businesses and find their festive freedom across the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.  

Why not hop aboard a Stagecoach bus or GWR train to explore this corner of west Gloucestershire and Monmouthshire more sustainably and enjoy top festive events, markets, restaurants and more.  

Related

Breakfast with santa
Family Event
Breakfast with santa
Santa Specials
Christmas - Santa
Dean Forest Railway - Rennes in the Snow

Join Santa and his elves on board the train as you travel through the forest. Tickets include a present for the children, an alcoholic miniature for the adults and a warmed mince pie for everyone! You can also add on some great Christmassy food to take on board, including our Christmas Afternoon Tea.

0 Comments

Comments

Comments are disabled for this post.