JRR Tolkien used to take walks here, it inspired the Forbidden Forest from Harry Potter, while Producer of Star Wars, Kathleen Kennedy called it “the most magical forest on the face of the earth”. Influencing three of the biggest fantasy franchises ever, the ancient and enchanted Puzzlewood, located in the historic Forest of Dean, is a truly magical location.
Twisted trees, mazing pathways and strange rock formations have not only inspired authors and filmmakers, but people of all ages and backgrounds. You can let your imaginations run wild as you discover secret caves, Roman nooks and iron ore mines. (It’s believed the Roman’s iron ore extraction in the region is responsible for the peculiar landscape.)
Puzzlewood has been a filming location for countless TV shows and movies over the years too. On top of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, you might also recognise it from such Hollywood blockbusters like Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, The Huntsman: Winter’s War, The Secret Garden (2020 )and A Midsummer Night’s Dream (2016). It’s also popped up on television for Doctor Who, Merlin, The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance and many more.
You won’t find many aliens or wizards on your trip around this otherworldly woodland despite its looks. What you will find in Puzzlewood is plenty of wildlife. From badgers to bats, deer and foxes, as well as buzzards to owls, it’s ideal for both budding and professional wildlife photographers.
There’s over a mile and a half of paths, bridges and lookout points to pass as you take in the breathtaking scenery. Families should pick up a copy of the Wizards Guide, which gets kids to hunt down 20 objects, items, places, faces, and animals. Or download the Puzzlewood app for an interactive Roman coin treasure hunt. A truly magical place for all, you may even leave Puzzlewood with your own story to tell.
How do I get to Puzzlewood?
Puzzlewood is located in the Forest of Dean near the Wye Valley. Less than a mile south of market town Coleford, it should take an hour if you’re driving from the centre of Bristol. Use the GL16 8QB postcode find it and follow the brown tourist signs when close.
If you want to take public transport, it may take significantly longer. The nearest railway stations are Lydney (5.65 miles), Chepstow (10 miles) and Gloucester (20 miles), while Stagecoach operates a network of bus routes throughout the Forest of Dean. The nearest bus stop is in Coleford and is a 10 to 15-minute walk from Puzzlewood.
When can I visit the woodland?
Planning is advised when visiting Puzzlewood. The opening times vary throughout the year, however, and it’s best to double-check on the website here. In the event of severe weather conditions, Puzzlewood may also be closed due to its narrow, uneven and often slippery step.
It’s always closed in January and December due to the wet weather and is only open daily from March 23 to the end of October. Until then, it will be open from February 24 to 26 and every Saturday, Sunday and Monday in March. In November it will only open on Saturday, Sunday and Monday again.
How much does it cost?
Admission costs £9.50 for an adult and £8 for a child, children 2 and under go free.
Where can I stay?
If you fancy staying over the night, the nearby town of Coleford is home to The Angel Hotel. But for a truly magical experience, why not rent a cottage at Puzzlewood? With unlimited access to the woods, you’re even welcome to help with the animals’ morning feeds! There’s a minimum stay of three nights, but this could be the ideal staycation that you were looking for. Learn more about Puzzlewood and staying over by heading here.