Keeping Teenagers Entertained in the Forest of Dean: A Family Holiday Guide.
Welcome to Big House Holiday Lets, your go-to destination for unforgettable large family holidays! We understand the importance of quality time spent together, which is why our big country houses offer the perfect escape for families of all ages. With spacious accommodations and most houses featuring hot tubs, you and your loved ones will have the time of your lives. But what about keeping those hard-to-please teenagers entertained? Don't worry; we've got you covered! The Forest of Dean offers an array of exciting activities that will engage even those most energetic / bored teenagers. So let's dive into the top 10 fun activities to keep your teens entertained in the magical Forest of Dean.
So here we go…
The River Wye is the fifth-longest river in the UK and offers fantastic opportunities for families to try canoeing and kayaking. Numerous outfitters along the river provide equipment and guidance, making it easy for even beginners to enjoy the experience. As you paddle, keep an eye out for local wildlife like kingfishers, otters, and even the occasional jumping salmon. Even the teenagers will enjoy this adventure.
Treetop Adventure at Go Ape Forest of Dean
For an adrenaline-pumping adventure, take your kids to the Go Ape Forest of Dean, located in Beechenhurst. This treetop adventure course offers a variety of rope bridges, Tarzan swings, and zip lines that cater to different ages and skill levels. The entire family can experience the thrill of swinging through the trees and taking in the breath-taking forest views.
Puzzlewood is a magical, ancient woodland that has inspired countless storytellers, including J.R.R. Tolkien and the creators of the Star Wars and Doctor Who series. Teenagers will love exploring the winding pathways, stepping stones, and wooden bridges that weave through the moss-covered rocks and gnarled trees. This wood was made for Instagram!
A private one-to-one experience, where you get to handle and fly the birds, will make you understand why Birds of Prey are one of the most fascinating predators in the world. These experiences vary in duration and are available all throughout the year. Luke can be booked to come to your own large country house for a display.
Mountain Biking in the Forest of Dean
Hit the trails and feel the adrenaline rush as you conquer challenging mountain biking routes in the beautiful Forest of Dean. Perfect for those activity mad competitive teenagers!
The Wye Valley is a hiker's paradise, and one of the most popular spots is Symonds Yat Rock. This iconic viewpoint offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and there are several trails suitable for families with children. Keep an eye out for the peregrine falcons that nest nearby, as well as other wildlife like deer and wild boar. You never know, the hike might just wear the teenagers out!
Discover the subterranean world of Clearwell Caves, a fascinating network of iron ore mines dating back thousands of years. Take a guided tour through the atmospheric caverns, learning about the history of mining and the people who once worked there. The caves also host special events, such as Christmas markets and Halloween tours, making them a great destination for seasonal family outings.
Rent bikes and take a leisurely ride along the Peregrine Path, a 5-mile cycling route that follows the River Wye from Monmouth to Symonds Yat. The flat, traffic-free path is perfect for families, and there are plenty of picnic spots and ice cream vendors along the way. Great for a family day out and take in Monmouth town with the shops, cafes and bars to keep the kids entertained - food and a drink always does it!
Forest Segway Experience Why not tour the Forest of Dean on Segways? This exciting and unique experience is perfect for teenagers looking for a fun and modern way to explore the forest. Probably a new thing for them to do so it will always be remebered Check out the Segway fun!
Maybe for the quieter, less competitive teenagers, why not take them to this conservation zoo, surrounding yourself with the vibrant colours and delicate beauty of exotic butterflies? And don’t worry, there’s mini golf and a hedge maze puzzle and laser games to keep them entertained too. The butterfly farm is within walking distance of Forest Holidays in the Forest of Dean between Monmouth and Ross on Wye at Symonds Yat in the Wye Valley.
So there you go, the Wye Valley is an brilliant destination that offers a plethora of exciting and engaging activities for teenagers on holiday. From thrilling outdoor adventures like canoeing and rock climbing to immersive historical experiences at Tintern Abbey and Chepstow Castle, there's no shortage of memorable moments to be had even more than the ones we’ve outlined. With its picturesque landscapes, rich heritage, and diverse recreational opportunities, the Wye Valley caters to the diverse interests of young visitors, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. So, pack your bags, gather your adventurous spirit, and embark on a journey to this enchanting region where you'll create lifelong memories and forge lasting bonds.