Puzzlewood
A magical woodland in the Forest of Dean
Puzzlewood is a unique and magical ancient woodland in The Forest of Dean just outside Coleford. Explore the mile and a half of winding pathways through a labyrinth of unique mossy rock formations, intricate wooden bridges and fantastic tree canopy with leafy lookouts.
Also onsite are farm animals, a playground, outdoor and indoor mazes, picnic areas, a small cafe and gift shop.
What is the magic of Puzzlewood?
Puzzlewood is like stepping into a fairytale. 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. Puzzlewood is a truly enchanting place and has an atmosphere quite unlike any other wood you will have visited. It’s also a rare example of a UK temperate rainforest with wonderful flora and fauna.
Puzzlewood has a fascinating history too; it was used for the mining of iron ore in Roman times, then nature reclaimed the workings until the early 1800s. At this time, a local landowner laid down 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 Puzzlewood has remained essentially unchanged, a wild wood preserved for future generations to enjoy!
