The Forest of Dean is the perfect place to spend Easter weekend. Spring is in the air, the trails are drying out, and the villages and towns are buzzing with life. Whether you’re staying local or visiting for the holiday, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your Easter break.
Walks Worth Wandering
Let’s be honest — you don’t need an excuse to go for a walk here. But Easter is a brilliant time to head out and explore somewhere new (or revisit an old favourite):
- Symonds Yat Rock – A Forest icon. Great views, wildlife spotting, and plenty of route options.
- Mallards Pike Lake – Perfect for a family stroll, a jog, or a laid-back dog walk. There’s even a café if you forget your snacks.
- Cannop Ponds – A peaceful and easy-going route that’s great for photography and spotting wildlife.
Coffee, Treats & Local Favourites
When it comes to refuelling, the Forest is full of independent gems. Whether you’re after a sit-down brunch or a sugar hit for the kids, here are a few must-visits:
- Art of Coffee, Coleford – A stylish, welcoming spot serving seriously good coffee, brunches, and light bites. Great vibe, great food.
- Scoffs Coffee House, Coleford – Tucked just off the main square in Coleford, Scoffs is a no-frills, proper local favourite — the kind of place that’s all about good food, strong tea, and friendly face
- Greenhill Coffee House, Cinderford – Cosy, friendly and reliably good. Perfect for post-walk coffee and cake.
- Hips Social, Lydney- A stylish, community-focused café and creative space right in the heart of Lydney. It’s got a cool, modern feel with a laid-back atmosphere
- Forest Deli, Coleford – Stock up on artisan cheese, chutneys, and all the essentials for an Easter feast or picnic.
- Forest Sweets and Treets, Coleford – The ultimate sweet shop experience. A hit with kids (and let’s face it, adults too), with shelves packed full of retro favourites and Easter goodies.
Dining & Drinks – Where to Book
Planning a meal out or somewhere to catch up over a drink? These spots always deliver:
- Simply Wild Restaurant, Coleford – Fine dining meets local, foraged ingredients. A small, intimate spot perfect for something a bit special this Easter weekend.
- The Dog House, Coleford – Laid-back, dog-friendly and award winning, serving the biggest range of craft beers in the area!
- The Miners, Sling – A warm, welcoming pub with great food and a real community feel. Proper Forest hospitality.
- Art of Coffee (again!) – Not just a café, in the evening it becomes “The Lounge”— it’s also a great place for evening drinks and social bites depending on what they have running over the weekend.
If you’re heading out, it’s always worth booking ahead — Easter weekend gets busy fast.
Easter Monday Highlight: Coleford Festival of Transport
Bank Holiday Monday is all about The Coleford Festival of Transport. This beloved local event takes over the town centre with a huge display of classic cars, military vehicles, vintage motorbikes, steam engines and more.
It’s free to attend and has something for everyone — live music, food stalls, market stalls, entertainment for the kids, and a fantastic community atmosphere.
Top tip: Arrive early for easier parking and a quieter stroll before the crowds roll in.
Local Shopping Spots for Easter Goodies
Easter is the perfect excuse to treat yourself (or others). Support local and pick up something special from:
- Independent Shops in Coleford, Lydney & Cinderford – Keep an eye out for Easter pop-ups, handmade crafts, homeware, and more throughout the weekend.
Final Thoughts
There’s no better place to spend Easter than the Forest of Dean — from long walks to proper pub lunches, sweet shops, and classic car displays, the whole weekend is packed with local charm and things to do.
Enjoy it all, there are so many more top places to visit than we have mentioned— and if a walk past your dream home sparks some curiosity, you know where we are.
Happy Easter from all of us at Hattons Estate Agents!
