J.R.R. Tolkien used to take walks here; it inspired the Forbidden Forest in Harry Potter; while Kathleen Kennedy, producer of Star Wars, called it “the most magical forest on the face of the earth.” Influencing the three biggest fantasy franchises ever, the ancient and enchanted Puzzlewood, located in the historic Forest of Dean, is nothing short of magical.
Twisted trees, maze-like pathways and strange rock formations have not only inspired authors and filmmakers, but people of all ages and backgrounds. Your imagination will run wild as you discover 4,500-year-old caves and moss-covered canyons, as well as Roman nooks and mines—it’s believed the Romans’ iron ore extraction is responsible for the region’s peculiar landscape.
Where have I seen Puzzlewood before?
Puzzlewood has been a filming location for countless TV shows and movies over the years. On top of Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015), you might also recognise it from many Hollywood blockbusters, like Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (2010), The Huntsman: Winter’s War (2016), 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.
What will I find there?
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 over a mile and a half of paths, bridges and lookout points to pass as you take in the breathtaking scenery. Plus, plenty of wildlife—from badgers, bats, deer and foxes to buzzards and owls—it’s ideal for both budding and professional wildlife photographers.
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 there?
Puzzlewood is located in the Forest of Dean near the Wye Valley. Less than a mile south of the market town of Coleford, it should take an hour and a half if you’re driving from the centre of Birmingham. Use the GL16 8QB postcode to 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?
It’s always closed from December to February due to the wet weather, but it is only open daily from March 28 to the end of October. In November, it will only open on Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
How much does Puzzlewood cost?
Admission costs £9.90 for an adult and £8.50 for a child, while children 2 and under go free.
Where can I stay?
If you fancy staying overnight, 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.
