Let’s escape the world through the eye of the forest. Discover the beautiful surroundings of Ross-On-Wye through the Forest of Dean. Being England’s oldest oak forest it is a wonderfully scenic place for outdoor adventures. In 1938, Forest of Dean was designated as England’s first National Forest Park. Explore this 42 sq-mile of woodland which had previously been a royal hunting ground and even a centre of iron and coal mining. The mysterious and unique depts of this land inspired the forests of JRR Tolkien’s Middle Earth, while key scenes in Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows were filmed here.

Being a small town of just under 11,000, it can be difficult to know what to do in the winter months in the wye. The beautiful surroundings of Ross make it its own unique adventure. When the snow begins to fall it can be transformed into an incredible natural winter wonderland. But if you are looking for something a bit more adventurous then why not try out these two activities happening in the wye this winter!

Winter in the Wye Valley Festival at Chepstow Racecourse

On the 2nd December, you can visit the Chepstow Racecourse to attend the Wye Valley Winter Festival. Celebrate everything great about the Wye Valley at the festival with a choice of food and drink too. This is a family-friendly fun day out and there will be a combination of activities for the kids and for the adults to enjoy. This is a free entry event so the whole family can attend and have a great time. It also gives you the opportunity to purchase gifts for your family and friends too

Christmas Market at Forest of Dean

Starting on 1st December for the first 3 weekends of the month there will be over 30 small business owners and traders with the locally grown fresh cut Christmas trees. There will be a large choice of hand-crafted gifts that are not usually available on the high street too. The Forest of Dean Christmas Market provides the perfect opportunity to spend time with the family. You will also be visiting one of the most scenic places in Ross on Wye. This is also a free entry event with free parking so you can have a family fun day out.