Forest of Dean
The Forest of Dean offers magical woodland walks and heritage trails for every explorer. From the family-friendly Cannop Ponds trail to the historic Mineral Loop and river-side rambles near Lydney and Coleford, the forest is full of accessible and immersive routes. Expect ancient trees, wildlife sightings, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for reconnecting with nature.
Woorgreens Lake
Duration: 7.6 miles (12 km), approx. 3 hours 10 minutes
Access: Partially accessible; compacted forest paths in places, but not fully suitable for wheelchairs throughout
Terrain: Mixed woodland and heathland; flat to gently undulating, with some uneven or muddy patches in wet weather
Facilities: Forestry England car park, informal benches, limited signage; no toilets or cafés on site
Transport: Best accessed by car; park at Speech House Road Forestry car park; limited public transport or cycle access from nearby towns
Symonds Yat
Duration: 1 km out-and-back trail, 15–30 minutes
Access: Not fully wheelchair-accessible due to narrow or uneven sections; some flatter stretches near the rock viewpoint
Terrain: Mostly level compacted stone paths with short inclines; forest canopy and panoramic viewpoints
Facilities: Large car park, public toilets, and café at Symonds Yat East
Transport: Drive to car park via B4432; buses from Ross-on-Wye or Lydney to Symonds Yat, followed by a short walk
Mallards Pike
Duration: 0.8 km lakeside loop, 12–20 minutes
Access: Fully accessible for wheelchairs, pushchairs, and adapted cycles
Terrain: Flat, surfaced lakeside track around the water; suitable in all seasons
Facilities: Forestry car park, picnic benches; nearby toilets and café at Forest centre (short drive)
Transport: Car park at Mallards Pike (GL15 4HD); accessible via bike from Lydney or by car; limited public transport nearby
May Hill
Duration: Approx. 5.5 km circular, 1 hour 45 minutes
Access: Not wheelchair-accessible; open countryside trails and hills
Terrain: Hilltop and woodland edge walking with some moderate inclines; muddy or rutted in wet weather
Facilities: Small parking area; no toilets or cafés on site
Transport: Parking available near summit (GL18 1HS); bus service 24X from Gloucester or Ross-on-Wye to Longhope, then walk
Queenswood, Dymock
Duration: Trails range from 1.5 km to 9 km; approx. 30 to 90 minutes
Access: Partially accessible; surfaced paths and shorter loops suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs
Terrain: Broadleaf forest trails, bluebell woods and meadow edges; mostly level with occasional uneven areas
Facilities: Free parking at Queenswood; benches and picnic spots; nearest toilets and shops in Dymock
Transport: Car park, local buses to Dymock village, short walk into the woods from there
