Nr. Coleford, Royal Forest of Dean,
Glos. GL16 8QB
Location map
Tel: 01594 833187
Website: http://www.puzzlewood.net

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.

Willow Maze - New for 2010.

The new Puzzlewood willow maze is a work of art in it's own right. The living willow structure has been designed and planted by The Willow Bank, Lydney. (www.thewillowbank.com)

Find your way through the celtic double spiral, walk through tunnels, and arches, find igloos and dead ends.

Over 4000 willow twigs from 7 different willow varieties were used in the construction of the Puzzlewood maze. The willow twigs were then woven to create this spectacular living sculpture.

2010 Opening Times:

February & March  - weekends only. Open 10am to 4.30pm (last entry 3.30pm)
April to September - open daily from 10am to 5.30pm (last entry 4.30pm)
October to December - see website

Adults: £5.00
Children: £3.50 (4 to 16 years)
Under 4's: FREE
Family Ticket: (2 adults + 2 children) £16
Season Ticket: Adult £10, child £7, family (2+2 or 1+ 3) £32

Cafe: Yes
Shop: Yes
Picnic area: Yes
Parking: free
Coach parties: Accepted
Dogs: Not accepted (except guidedogs)

Directions
From Coleford follow B4228 towards Chepstow, half a mile along Puzzle Wood is on the right hand side.

Important
Not suitable for the less physically able due to many uneven steps or pushchairs - child carrier needed.