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Puzzlewood - A Magical day out in the Forest of Dean
Puzzlewood is a unique and magical day out in Forest of Dean. You can explore a mile of pathways winding through deep gulley’s of moss covered rocks, over wooden bridges and through fantastic tree and rock formations; all set in 14 acres of ancient woodland.
What is the magic of Puzzlewood?
Is it the maze of pathways winding between the moss covered rocks, the twisted roots of the Yew trees or the bridges and ‘lookouts’ that you have to find on your way round? JRR Tolkien is reputed to have taken his inspiration for the fabled forests of Middle Earth from Puzzlewood, and it is easy to see why. You will find Puzzlewood to be an enchanting place. It has an atmosphere quite unlike any other wood you will have visited.
Puzzlewood has an interesting history; It was used for the mining of Iron ore until Roman times, nature then reclaimed the old workings until, in the early 1800s a local landowner laid down a mile of pathways which meandered through the trees and gulleys to open up this ancient forest; originally for the amusement of his friends and children. Since then it is has remained essentially unchanged with the same pathways and bridges as in earlier times, but with the addition of visitor facilities on the Puzzlewood site.
In addition to the wood, there are animals to see including miniature Shetland ponies, pygmy goats, donkeys, wild fowl, highland cattle and rabbits! There is a childrens playground, outdoor picnic tables and a café serving drinks, sandwiches and delicious locally made cakes.
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