A whimsical and enchanting forest – Puzzlewood, England
Popular tourist attraction Puzzlewood in Gloucestershire, England, is part of the Forest of Dean near Coleford. Its winding paths and moss-covered stones and trees, resemble a fantasy worlds from Lord of the Rings. Rumor has it that J.R.R Tolkien himself was inspired by Puzzlewood, which led him to create the famous trilogy, as he visited the woodland quite frequently.
The forest was also a prime location for filming, it served as a set for famous series such as Merlin and Dr. Who. Besides that, there are also remnants of the past buried over time by moss. There is evidence of the Roman occupation found in old ancient coins that have been discovered at the site. There may still be a few left behind structures that are yet to be discovered.
Puzzlewood is also home to ancient Roman Celtic open cast iron mines. Besides the lush greenery of the forest, it is also home to various fauna. Visitors can view specially kept farm and domestic animals at Puzzlewood: rabbits, donkeys, sheep, wild fowl, cattle and more.
There are various other amenities provided for visitors, including a gift shop and a children’s play area. This makes the woodlands a tourist attraction among adventurers, history enthusiasts and families alike. Nature lovers will also enjoy soaking in the natural sunlight, while being surrounded by the greenery.
The history of Puzzlewood runs deep. The winding paths were originally laid out in the late 19th century. It is said that despite this, the area wasn’t open to the public until 100 years later. There are miles and miles of these winding pathways that will take visitors deeper into the forest to witness various woodland tree formations, footbridges and other marvellously whimsical attractions.
Puzzlewood is easily accessible to all and is located in the Forest of Dean. It is located south of Coleford. In order to access the area you’ll have to head to the Forest of Dean first, the easiest way to head there is to drive down to Coleford and keep an eye out for some brown signs that point to Puzzlewood. It’s pretty straightforward and the area was designed to easily guide tourists to locate the Forest of Dean and Puzzlewood so, you can get there easily by just following the signs.
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Puzzlewood ancient woodland attraction (OSM woodland-area reference), Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, England
- Coordinates
- 51.7774, -2.6149
- Access
- Ticketed visitors may enter during the operator’s published opening periods; advance booking is advised for busy summer dates. The woodland has 200+ narrow, uneven steps that can be slippery when wet and is not wheelchair, mobility-aid or pushchair accessible. Correctly identified assistance dogs are permitted; other pets are not. Severe weather can cause closure, so check the operator’s notice.
- Admission
- Published 2026 prices: adult £9.90; child £8.50; age 2 and under free; adult concession (disabled visitor, carer or over 65) £8.90; disabled child concession £7.50. Online bookings carry an additional booking fee. Check the live booking page for availability and any updated prices.
- Time needed
- The operator recommends allowing 1–1.5 hours to walk through the woods. This is its estimate for the woodland walk, not a fixed visit limit.
- Best season
- The operator publishes no single best season. The attraction is seasonal, generally open March–November. For safer footing, choose a dry-weather day: its 200+ uneven steps can be slippery when wet. Severe weather may cause closure, so check the operator’s same-day notice.
- Opening hours
- The operator’s 2026 booking page lists opening at 10:00, daily March 28–November 2, then Mondays and weekends November 2–30; closed December 1, 2026–February 13, 2027. It lists October last entry 14:30 / gates close 16:00. The operator FAQ conflicts, listing September–October last entry 16:00 / gates close 17:00. Check the live booking calendar or contact Puzzlewood before travel. Weather closures may occur.
- Location checked
- 2026-09-24
- Facts checked
- 2026-10-22
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Great photos. It’s easy to see why it’s been used in so many films.