The Forest

Wood, Forest in Gloucestershire Cotswold

England

The Forest

River Churn at Cockleford The upper reaches of this Cotswolds river, looking downstream, that eventually finds itself a part of the River Thames.
River Churn at Cockleford Credit: Jonathan Billinger

The Forest of Dean, located in Gloucestershire, England, is a historic woodland area that covers approximately 110 square kilometers. With a rich history dating back thousands of years, this ancient woodland is known for its natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and cultural significance.

The Forest of Dean is renowned for its dense cover of broadleaf trees, predominantly oak and beech, which create a stunning and picturesque landscape throughout the year. The forest is home to numerous walking trails, cycling routes, and nature reserves, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can explore the forest's hidden valleys, tranquil streams, and ancient woodlands, providing a sense of serenity and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Aside from its natural beauty, the Forest of Dean has a rich cultural heritage. The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and evidence of its past can be seen in the form of iron mines, medieval castles, and Roman settlements. The forest also played a significant role during the Industrial Revolution, with coal mining and ironworks being prominent industries in the region.

With its unique blend of natural wonders and historical significance, the Forest of Dean offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for visitors. Whether it's exploring the enchanting Puzzlewood, visiting the Dean Heritage Centre, or simply immersing oneself in the tranquility of the forest, this picturesque woodland destination has something to offer for everyone.

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The Forest Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.828719/-2.018048 or Grid Reference SO9814. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

River Churn at Cockleford The upper reaches of this Cotswolds river, looking downstream, that eventually finds itself a part of the River Thames.
River Churn at Cockleford
The upper reaches of this Cotswolds river, looking downstream, that eventually finds itself a part of the River Thames.
Straw castle On a field edge near Norbury Camp is this partially-built straw construction.
Straw castle
On a field edge near Norbury Camp is this partially-built straw construction.
Small field south of the River Churn The tree to the left is an Ash.
Small field south of the River Churn
The tree to the left is an Ash.
Gas pipeline marker A short section of lane in the south west corner of the gridsquare.
Gas pipeline marker
A short section of lane in the south west corner of the gridsquare.
Grassy hillside With woodland on the south side of the Churn valley.
Grassy hillside
With woodland on the south side of the Churn valley.
Hole in the hedge This is actually a footpath to the River Churn and main road.
Hole in the hedge
This is actually a footpath to the River Churn and main road.
Norbury Camp Set amongst the harvested fields and patches of woodland in this corner of the Cotswolds.
Norbury Camp
Set amongst the harvested fields and patches of woodland in this corner of the Cotswolds.
Colesbourne Manor Snowdrops in the woods behind Colesbourne Manor
Colesbourne Manor
Snowdrops in the woods behind Colesbourne Manor
Barn at Colesbourne A large barn to the east of the Cheltenham to Cirencester road in the village of Colesbourne
Barn at Colesbourne
A large barn to the east of the Cheltenham to Cirencester road in the village of Colesbourne
Colesbourne church Colesbourne church is dedicated to St James and is located in Colesbourne Park.
Colesbourne church
Colesbourne church is dedicated to St James and is located in Colesbourne Park.
Forestry work at Little Colesbourne Warning at the entrance to Barncombe Bottom of forestry activity in Little Colesbourne.
Forestry work at Little Colesbourne
Warning at the entrance to Barncombe Bottom of forestry activity in Little Colesbourne.
Old ruined cottage
Old ruined cottage
Old Sawmill Colesbourne estate
Old Sawmill Colesbourne estate
Old stone Bridge
Old stone Bridge
Colesbourne Church
Colesbourne Church
Gateway to Walled Garden
Gateway to Walled Garden
Old walled garden Colesbourne Park
Old walled garden Colesbourne Park
Site of former Temple/chapel
Site of former Temple/chapel
Show me another place!

The Forest is located at Grid Ref: SO9814 (Lat: 51.828719, Lng: -2.018048)

Administrative County: Gloucestershire

District: Cotswold

Police Authority: Gloucestershire

What 3 Words

///plotter.rejected.outpost. Near Charlton Kings, Gloucestershire

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