The Ultimate Dog-Friendly Guide to the Forest of Dean
At Forest of Dean Glamping and Camping, we know that a family holiday isn’t complete without your four-legged best friend. That’s why our site in Lydney isn't just "dog-tolerant" we are truly dog-friendly.
Located on the edge of ancient woodland with stunning valley views, we are the perfect base for you and your pup to explore Gloucestershire. To help you plan your adventure, we’ve rounded up the best local spots for paws and people alike.
🐾 Top Dog Walks Near Lydney
You don’t have to travel far to find world-class walking trails. Here are our top picks:
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Mallards Pike: Famous for its beautiful lakeside paths. It even features a "dog dip" area where your pup can safely splash around after a long walk.
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The Sculpture Trail (Beechenhurst): A 4.5-mile loop featuring impressive art installations. Most of the trail is under the canopy, making it a great choice for shade on warmer days.
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Lydney Harbour: For a change of scenery, head to the historic harbour for a breezy walk along the Severn Estuary with wide-open views.
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The Family Cycle Trail: Don't let the name fool you - it's a wide, flat gravel path perfect for senior dogs or long, easy strolls through the heart of the forest.
🍺 Dog-Friendly Pubs & Cafes
After a morning of exploring, you’ll need a place to refuel. These local gems always have a water bowl ready:
Venue | Distance | Why Dogs Love It |
|---|---|---|
The Fountain Inn (Parkend) | 3.5 Miles | A beautiful forest walk away; ideal for a long afternoon trek. |
The Rising Sun (Moseley Green) | 40 minutes through the woods from site | Beer garden and play area |
The Bailey Inn Pub | 10 minute walk from site | 10 minute walk from site (open for breakfast and lunch 7 days a week) |
Walking Tip: The walk into Lydney and Bream involves some elevation changes, so make sure to wear sturdy boots and bring a collapsible water bowl for your pup!
🚂 Paws on Tour: Local Attractions
Think you’re limited to just walking? Think again! The Forest of Dean offers several "dog-approved" attractions:
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Dean Forest Railway: Dogs are welcome on the heritage steam trains (for a small fee), allowing you to see the forest in style.
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Clearwell Caves: Surprisingly, well-behaved dogs on leads are allowed to explore these atmospheric underground caverns with you.
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Perrygrove Railway: A great family day out where dogs are invited to ride the narrow-gauge trains and explore the woods.
🐕 Off-Lead Freedom & The Forest Dog Code
We know nothing beats the sight of a happy dog running free! While we ask that dogs remain on a lead within the campsite to respect other guests, the Forest of Dean is an "Open Access" area, meaning there are miles of tracks where well-behaved dogs can enjoy off-lead exercise.
Safe Spots for Off-Lead Fun
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Mallards Pike: While the lakeside path is popular, the surrounding fire crest tracks are wide, clear, and perfect for letting your dog explore the sniffs of the forest.
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The Family Cycle Trail: These wide gravel paths offer great visibility, making it easier to spot other walkers or cyclists and recall your dog early.
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Beechenhurst Enclosure: Away from the main visitor hub and picnic areas, you’ll find quieter woodland trails where dogs can roam through the trees.
🌳 The Forest Dog Code
To keep the forest beautiful and protect our local wildlife (including our famous wild boar and deer!), we ask all our guests to follow these simple rules:
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Keep Them in Sight: Only let your dog off-lead if they have a reliable recall and stay within your line of vision.
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Respect the Wildlife: If you’re walking through areas with ground-nesting birds (especially between February and August) or near livestock, please use a lead.
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Bag It & Bin It: Please pick up after your dog immediately. There are dog waste bins located at all major Forestry England car parks (Mallards Pike, Beechenhurst, and Cannop Ponds).
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Watch for Boar: The Forest of Dean is home to wild boar. They generally avoid people, but if your dog tends to chase wildlife, it’s safer to keep them on a long training lead.
Pro-Tip: Secure Exercise Fields
If your dog is a "runner" or doesn't have the best recall yet, there are several private, fully-enclosed dog walking fields just a short drive from the site, such as those in Gorsley or near Ross-on-Wye, where you can book a private 50-minute slot for total peace of mind.
Why Stay With Us?
Our campsite is designed with dog owners in mind. When you book a stay at Forest of Dean Glamping and Camping, you enjoy:
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Spacious Pitches: Plenty of room for your dog’s favorite outdoor bed.
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On-Site Trails: Immediate access to paths for those early morning "bathroom breaks."
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Fresh Water: Easy access to water points across the site.
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Expert Advice: As locals, we can point you toward the quietest trails during peak season.
Traveller Tip: Please remember to keep your dogs on a lead while on the campsite to ensure all our guests (and the local wildlife!) stay happy and safe.
