1
Cannop Ponds
This idyllic spot in the Forest of Dean is made for picnics surrounded by wildlife. Keep an eye out for the mandarin ducks, reed warblers and you may be lucky enough to spot some mute swans. Originally created to supply an ironworks waterwheel, there are two reservoirs at Cannop Ponds. Follow a trail alongside the waters edge to build up an appetite for lunch! There are a number of walks available from here heading further into the forest as well. See the mining history of this area come to life and head up to Monument Mine and Mine Train Quarry.
During the Gloucestershire school holidays, Silvia Davis Refreshments are open from 11am-4pm at weekends if you need to top up your picnic basket!
Find it –
Postcode: GL15 4JS
What3words: clinking.racing.sorry
Parking: £5 all day (shorter lengths available)
Walk map: 2 miles around Cannop Ponds
2
Beechenhurst
Beechenhurst is a fantastic starting point for exploring the Forest of Dean and there is so much to do here. It is home to the awe-inspiring sculpture trail, a collection of artwork hidden amongst the trees and well worth discovering. If you are visiting with family, spend the morning following the Gruffalo trail or adventuring in the play area with a zip line, climbing frame and a separate area for toddlers. When everybody is in need of refuelling, there is plenty of space to spread out your blanket or choose one of the benches outside the café.
A gas barbecue is available to hire which is undercover and includes the use of two parking spaces!
Find it –
Postcode: GL16 7EL
What3words: impressed.abruptly.deed
Parking: £8 all day (shorter lengths available)
Walk map: Beechenhurst walking trails
3
Eagle’s Nest Viewpoint
One of the most beautiful viewpoints in the Forest of Dean, Eagle’s Nest has spectacular views across the Wye Valley as the river winds its way through the trees. There are two ways to reach Eagle’s Nest, one involving a steep footpath and 300 steps which weaves through the trees creating a magical path to follow. A steadier route can also be found and whichever way you walk you will be rewarded with sneak peaks of the river through the trees as you climb your way to the top. When you reach the summit, you can see as far as the Cotswolds and you can rest awhile with your sandwiches and sausage rolls.
This is one of the best places in the area to see the gorgeous colours of Autumn starting to appear.
Find it –
Postcode: NP16 6HD (Upper and Lower Wyndcliff Car Parks)
Parking: Free
Walk map: Wyndcliff Wood
4
Mallard’s Pike and Wenchford
Mallard’s Pike is a popular spot in the Forest of Dean, its serene lakeside setting lends itself to family picnics. Follow a walk along the water’s edge before tucking into lunch, or maybe you’ve brought your bikes to explore further! There is a handy café on site if you didn’t quite pack enough to keep hungry bellies satisfied. For something a bit different, you can book a forest segway, following the trails through the trees for an hour-long adventure.
A 3km walk takes you to Wenchford where the Blackpool Brook ripples by, the perfect place to cool down after a busy day.
Find it –
Postcode: GL15 4HD
What3words: reflect.eternally.shaped
Parking: £7 all day (shorter lengths available)
Walk map: Mallards Pike trail map
5
Nagshead Nature Reserve
Picnic amongst woodland teeming with wildlife at Nagshead Nature Reserve. The ancient oaks are home to woodpeckers, firecrest and you might be lucky enough to spot deer and wild boar as well! There are two circular walking routes to follow, and a scattering of picnic benches are on site so you can set up for the afternoon. Sitting under the dappled light filtering through the trees it’s a wonderfully peaceful spot
Open seasonally at weekends and bank holidays, the visitor centre is a good place to start your day to learn a bit more about the area from the helpful volunteers.
Find it –
Postcode: GL15 4LA
What3words: milk.wound.hunk
Parking: Free
Walk map: Pick up a trail guide at the visitor centre (open weekend and bank holidays, seasonally)
Forest Deli Picnic Experience
If you’d like the luxury of a pre-made picnic, pop into Forest Deli in Coleford to pick up a selection of local produce. There is something to suit no matter what kind of day you have planned. A backpack picnic is perfect if there is a hike on the cards, order a couple of forest feasts for a family day out, and the celebration picnic for two is the ideal pairing for a romantic lakeside date. Each includes delicious homemade items and ingredients sourced from the local area.
When you collect your picnic, make sure to the check-out the cheese counter!