1. Events

A Region Alive with Unique Events

This is a place where creativity, culture, and tradition come together to create unforgettable experiences. Quirky celebrations like the Newent Onion Fair - with its famous onion-eating contest and family-friendly fun - capture the area’s unique charm, while live performances such as at the free Coleford Music Festival bring the community together with music and excitement.

Foodies will love the opportunity to dive into local flavours at events like the Forest Food Showcase, featuring artisan producers and hands-on cooking classes. Why not try foraging in the forest or indulge in a cooking experience masterclass? There’s no better way to discover and connect with the region’s rich food heritage.

Seasonal Highlights to Discover

Every season brings its own unique charm to the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley:

  • Spring: In spring, the landscape bursts to life with the Golden Triangle of Daffodils and carpets of delicate snowdrops and bluebells.
  • Summer: Cool off with river adventures like kayaking, explore the forest by bike, or soak up the summer sunshine along scenic trails and waterways.
  • Autumn: Known as the UK’s best Leaf Peeping destination, it’s the perfect season for scenic walks and the annual Walking Festival.
  • Winter: Winter is the perfect time to experience the magic of the region’s Dark Skies.
Family on a canoe on the River Wye enjoying a summer day.

Get Closer to Nature

Nature lovers will be captivated by the Forest of Dean’s rich and diverse wildlife. Guided Wildlife Safaris offer the chance to spot wild boar, deer, and even peregrine falcons soaring high above. For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, the region has an extensive network of walking and biking trails to discover.

Wild Boar Humbugs in the Forest of Dean

Creative Arts and Community Spirit

The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley has a thriving arts scene, with annual events that showcase local creativity. Don’t miss the farOpen Arts Trail - explore open studios and discover the work of talented local artists during this much-anticipated yearly event. Enjoy lots of community arts events, from exhibitions to workshops, the area’s creative spirit is celebrated through a variety of activities for all ages. From pottery workshops to creative crafternoon teas, many events invite you to roll up your sleeves and join in, making memories while learning something new.

Wye Valley Sculpture Garden

Our Events

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Pottery Afternoon Tea Experience
Families | Foodies | Groups | Arts | Relaxation

Pottery & Afternoon Tea Experience

Dates:
8th May 2025 - 8th May 2025

A lovely Afternoon Tea themed experience where you will attempt throwing mugs, tea cups or saucers…

Elvis Tribute Night Event
Families | Foodies | Groups | Arts | Relaxation

Elvis Tribute Night 2025

Dates:
9th May 2025 - 9th May 2025

Enjoy an Elvis Tribute Night at Whitemead Forest Park.

Stargazing Experience in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley enjoying the best Dark Skies in the UK
Families | Foodies | Groups | Arts | Relaxation

Stargazing Safari

Dates:
10th May 2025 - 10th May 2025

Enjoy an evening stargazing with Jim on the hill at Tudor Farmhouse Hotel. You will go up the hill…

Wild garlic bulb from a foraging experience
Families | Foodies | Groups | Arts | Relaxation

Foraging with Ed Drewitt

Dates:
10th May 2025 - 10th May 2025

Ed is a naturalist, broadcaster and wildlife detective. He will take you for a two and a half hour…

Teddy bears picnic at Perrygrove scaled
Families | Foodies | Groups

Teddy Bears Picnic

Event Dates:
10th May 2025 - 11th May 2025

Perrygrove Railway are having a Teddy Bears Picnic! Bring your favourite…

Abba Tribute
Families | Foodies | Groups

Abba Tribute

Event Dates:
16th May 2025 - 16th May 2025

Enjoy an Abba Tribute at Whitemead Forest Park.

Foraging Making with Liz Knight
Families | Foodies | Groups

Foraging & Making with Liz Knight

Event Dates:
17th May 2025 - 17th May 2025

Liz Knight has spent the last 10 years gathering and playing with wild…

Coleford Area Walking Festival
Families | Foodies | Groups

Coleford Area Walking Festival

Event Dates:
10th May 2025 - 18th May 2025

This annual festival is based in & around the town of Coleford in the…

Pottery Afternoon Tea Experience
Families | Foodies | Groups

Pottery & Afternoon Tea Experience

Event Dates:
23rd May 2025 - 23rd May 2025

A lovely Afternoon Tea themed experience where you will attempt throwing…

Spring Food Festival
Families | Foodies | Groups

Spring Food Festival

Event Dates:
25th May 2025 - 25th May 2025

Set in the heart of the scenic Forest of Dean, this family-friendly event…

Download Below 3
Families | Foodies | Groups

Hearts of Oak Beer Fest

Event Dates:
23rd May 2025 - 26th May 2025

The Hearts of Oak's Beer Festival is back for a second time this year!…

Pottery Pizza Experience
Families | Foodies | Groups

Pottery & Pizza Experience

Event Dates:
29th May 2025 - 29th May 2025

A lovely Pizza themed experience where you will attempt throwing pizza…

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