Clearwell Caves & Puzzlewood – A Journey into the Enchanted Forest of Dean

Escape the everyday and step into one of England’s most magical landscapes on a full-day adventure through the heart of the Forest of Dean. Discover two extraordinary destinations where ancient history, breathtaking nature and cinematic fantasy come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Your journey begins at Puzzlewood — one of Britain’s most enchanting woodlands. Covering 14 acres of ancient woodland with evidence of Roman iron mining and the discovery of more than 3,000 Roman coins, Puzzlewood feels like stepping into a real-life fairy tale. Follow winding wooden walkways through moss-covered gorges, beneath twisted tree roots and across picturesque bridges as every turn reveals another breathtaking scene. This rare temperate rainforest is unlike anywhere else in Britain, with its emerald-green mosses, towering ferns and dramatic rock formations creating an atmosphere that seems almost otherworldly.

Puzzlewood has inspired generations of storytellers and filmmakers and has appeared in productions including Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Doctor Who, The Secret Garden, Jack the Giant Slayer, Atlantis, Da Vinci’s Demons, Cursed, and many more. Many also believe its extraordinary landscape helped inspire J.R.R. Tolkien’s vision of Middle-earth.

Whether you’re exploring hidden pathways, admiring spectacular viewpoints, searching for Roman treasures, or simply breathing in the fresh woodland air, Puzzlewood invites visitors of all ages to slow down and embrace the magic of nature.

From the mysterious depths of ancient caves to one of the world’s most magical forests, this tour offers the perfect combination of history, natural beauty and adventure. Join us for an unforgettable day where reality and fantasy blend together, and discover why the Forest of Dean has captivated explorers, artists and filmmakers for centuries.

After time to relax over lunch in the charming market town of Coleford, continue your adventure to the legendary Clearwell Caves, a spectacular underground world hidden beneath the rolling hills of the Forest of Dean. Descend into cool, echoing caverns that have been explored and mined for over 4,000 years. Still producing natural ochre—the same pigment used by prehistoric artists—the caves glow with rich shades of terracotta, violet and golden amber. Wander through vast chambers where historic mining tools, original wagons and fascinating displays bring centuries of mining heritage to life. Surrounded by ancient rock formations and shimmering iron deposits, you’ll experience the unique atmosphere of a place where history is carved deep beneath the earth.