The best walks in the Forest of Dean

If you haven’t already discovered the natural beauty and walking trails of the Forest of Dean and the Wye Valley (collectively known as the Dean Wye area), it’s high time you did. One of England’s few remaining ancient woodlands – it’s William the Conqueror's former hunting ground – it offers fascinating history alongside lush nature and a wealth of wildlife, from peregrine falcons to three species of deer.

Tucked away in the hills of Gloucestershire, this magnificent forest is easily accessible from the cities of Bristol, Cardiff and Gloucester. Wending through and around it is an array of walking trails, ranging from tranquil riverside walks to invigorating hilltop hikes. In fact, there’s a walk suitable for every ability, so there’s every reason to lace up your boots and explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.  

If you’re keen to discover new walks in the Forest of Dean, the Ramblers Forest of Dean Group regularly runs guided walks in the area – and don’t forget as a Boundless Plus member you benefit from access to the Ramblers’ extensive walking routes and guided group walks.

Boundless members visiting this beautiful region can also save up to 20% on all stays at Whitemead Forest Park, which is within walking distance of several of our recommended walks. And for more ideas of things to do in the Forest of Dean, check out our full activities guide. 

Already a Boundless member? Simply log in to gain full access to all the offers and benefits included in your membership. 

Not yet a member? If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus. Enjoy unlimited access or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions, as well as year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more. 

Read on for our pick of the best walks in the Forest of Dean.

Best walks in the Forest of Dean

Symonds Yat views and walk

Credit: Getty Images

For stunning views of the Forest of Dean and incredible birdwatching, it's hard to beat Symonds Yat, in the heart of the Wye Valley and on the edge of the forest. The area's captivating walks often start at the summit of Symonds Yat Rock, where you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the forest canopy and, beyond the peaceful River Wye, the Malvern Hills and the Black Mountains. 

Well-marked trails wind through this scenic spot, offering both gentle, accessible routes for all abilities and more challenging hikes along the river. Some of these lead to great local pubs, and there’s a cosy café at the top of the rock where you can savour a replenishing drink and tasty treat as you take in the spectacular backdrop.

To help you plot your route, Boundless members get 20% off Ordnance Survey (OS) annual Premium subscriptions and 10% off all OS paper maps. 

The Wye Valley National Trail

The well-marked Wye Valley route follows the river for 136 miles, sometimes meandering away from it so that you can enjoy wider views of this beautiful landscape. You can approach it as a multi-day hike or break it up into several day walks – it’s divided into stages, which can each be completed in a day.

A section of the trail passes through the Dean Wye area, including Tintern Abbey and Devil’s pulpit and the Eagle’s nest. 

Discover the Tintern Abbey and Devil’s Pulpit walk

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If you’d prefer to start and end in the same place rather than tackling a stage of the Wye Valley trail, the five-mile Tintern Abbey and Devil’s Pulpit circular route is hard to beat. 

Beginning in the village of Tintern, this journey takes you across the Wireworks Bridge and up a 300-metre climb, rewarding you with stunning views from a limestone cliff overlooking the valley and the abbey. Legend has it that the devil once perched here, attempting to sway the monks from their faith. 

After soaking up the scenery, a gentle downhill stroll leads you back to the village, where welcoming pubs and tearooms await as the perfect reward.

Eagle’s Nest views and Wyndcliff Wood

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This challenging seven-mile walking route meanders through the pretty Wyndcliff woods situated near the River Wye, offering breathtaking views along the way. 

Not a walk for the faint hearted, you’ll climb 365 steps (up a series of metal ladders) to visit the Eagle’s Nest Viewpoint, where you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Severn Bridges, the towering cliffs of Wintour's Leap, and the winding River Wye below. You’ll pass the atmospheric Giant’s Cave, too. 

If you need some new kit before tackling this route, or any hiking adventure, don’t forget Boundless members get 12.5% off Cotswold Outdoor purchases. 

Walk the historic Offa’s Dyke path

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If you’re a history enthusiast or avid long-distance walker, the Offa’s Dyke Path is an epic 177-mile trail that runs along the border between England and Wales. 

In the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, this path meanders along the River Wye, starting from the River Severn in the south and extending to Monmouth in Wales. From there, it heads northwest toward Abergavenny and the stunning Brecon Beacons. 

The trail features many shorter sections that can be tackled in just a few hours or a day, showcasing some of the most picturesque spots in the Wye Valley, including the breathtaking Devil's Pulpit overlooking Tintern Abbey, Wintour's Leap, Brockweir, Redbrook, and Tidenham Chase.

The Beechenhurst Trail and Cannop Ponds walk

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There are several walks, suitable for all abilities, in this area of the forest – for a scenic waterside trek, try the Beechenhurst Trail, an eight-mile circular route that takes in the Cyril Hart Arboretum, Cannop Ponds, and the Hopewell Colliery Museum. Also known as the "Ramblers Route," it features a mix of challenging inclines and descents, offering a fantastic introduction to the diverse terrain of the Forest of Dean. It’s a perfect way to experience the area's natural beauty while enjoying a variety of landscapes along the way.

The Forest of Dean Ramblers Group offers several walking routes and guided group walks in this area – don’t forget that, as a Boundless Plus member, you’ll benefit from access to these.  

Other walking attractions to explore in the Forest of Dean

Experience Puzzlewood walks

Puzzlewood is a magical corner of the Forest of Dean that inspired the likes of J.R.R. Tolkien and served as a filming location for Star Wars and Doctor Who.
Wandering the winding trails through its twisted trees and moss-covered rocks feels like stepping into another world. The paths are well-trodden and reasonably accessible, making it an inviting destination for explorers of all ages. While beautiful year-round, spring is an especially magical time to visit, as the woodland bursts into life with wild garlic and bluebells, creating an unforgettable experience. 

Entry fees apply, visit the website for more information and opening times.

Visit the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail

For those seeking a little culture alongside their breath of fresh air, look no further than the enchanting Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail.

This 4.5-mile route showcases a collection of site-specific artworks by world-renowned sculptors, beautifully complementing the natural beauty of the woodland. Highlights of the trail include the Cathedral, a stunning large suspended stained glass window that invites a different viewpoint of the forest; and the Iron Road, crafted from carved railway sleepers and depicting wildlife scenes along the path. 

If you’re keen to explore more art trails across the UK, here is a list of our favourite ones to visit. 

Do more with Boundless

If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus.

With Boundless, you get unlimited access or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions including Kew Gardens and Wakehurst and WWT centres across the UK, as well as year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more. With Boundless Plus, you can enjoy additional benefits including unlimited access to Historic Royal Palaces sites, National Trust for Scotland places, access to the Ramblers' extensive group walks and routes, and peace of mind with roadside assistance and local recovery by LV= Britannia Rescue.