'''The Forest of Dean''' [http://www.forestofdean.gov.uk/] is a 110 square kilometer ancient woodland in the West Country region of England.
Understand
The Forest of Dean is one of the United Kingdom's most impressive forests, offering spectacular scenery throughout the year - whether it's bluebells in spring or the rich colours of oak in the Autumn.
History
Mining in the forest goes back before Roman times. Also the Forest of Dean used to be the elite Hunting Forest for Royalty.
Landscape
Great scenery all around the main forest area comprising of lots of hills and trees.
Flora and fauna
Bluebells and daffodils in the Spring, rich colors in the Autumn.
Get in
From the South come in on the M4 and cross over the river Severn on the Severn Bridge (M48). From the north come down the M5
Fees/Permits
If you go for fishing then you will need a permit.
Get around
There is a train route from Chepstow to Lydney, and also the [http://www.deanforestrailway.co.uk Dean Forest Railway] which runs from Lydney to Whitehead. Due to its semi-rural location there is a limited bus service in most parts of the area, and a car would be a much quicker means of transport. Gloucestershire Tourism provides a [http://www.forestofdean.gov.uk/ Royal Forest Site] which shows a touring route around the Forest of Dean, taking in all the major attractions.
See
The Speech House walk is well worth to see for sculptures deep inside the Forest. Clearwell Caves are ancient Iron mines estimated to be worked for over 8,000 years and is worth a look into. Lydney Park is worth a visit to see some Roman ruins. Great Western Railway Museum (Coleford) is excellent for steam buffs.
Do
Depends on what you fancy, lots of pubs in the Forest of Dean, some nice restaurants.
Buy
No city centre in the Forest of Dean, only Market towns and villages in this district so not a great place to go shopping.
Eat
Lots of nice restaurants and also good quality pub meals.
Drink
Local ale is still made in the Forest of Dean for 'Real Ale' fans. The Freeminer brewery produce several different unique beers.
Sleep
Lodging
Camping
There are several camping sites in the area best to check with the tourism board for the best and facilities etc.
Stay safe
Get out
The nearest cities are Bristol and Newport, both within 30 minutes drive. Gloucester is actually closer (about a 20 minutes drive), but it is a much smaller city.