This ancient forest has changed many times over the centuries. In medieval times it was a royal hunting forest, before becoming a source of timber for the navy's Tudor warships. By Victorian times it was a major site of industry, with coal mining and tramways punctuating the landscape.

In 1938 the Forest was designated the first National Forest Park and today the Forest of Dean is a popular destination for tourists.
Today the forest is still a working forest, producing sustainable timber for the UK market.
The Forest is also a stronghold for nature with large areas of woodland and open space providing a mosaic of habitats for a wide variety of wildlife.
It is a great place to explore. See if you can find the hidden remains of industry as you enjoy this wild and beautiful forest.