Car Hire Cinderford

Reaching Cinderford is straightforward via the A4136, which serves as the main road through the Forest of Dean, connecting you to the A40 at Huntley near Gloucester and continuing west towards Monmouth. The A4151 provides additional access from the south via the A48, while local roads branch out to all corners of this magnificent forested region. This historic mining town, home to 8,800 residents, experiences an oceanic climate with cool summers and mild winters, typically ranging from 6°C to 19°C throughout the year, though you should expect evenly distributed rainfall and prepare for the changeable weather patterns common to this beautiful woodland setting.

Attractions In Cinderford

Explore Forest of Dean mining heritage and woodland attractions, offering historic industrial sites, forest walking trails, local museums celebrating coal mining history and excellent access to ancient woodland recreation areas.

Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail

Over 2,500 delighted visitors have rated this breathtaking hiking area as the region’s most popular attraction, with outstanding reviews praising its magical blend of art and nature. Always available for adventurers, this wondrous trail on Speech House Road reveals thought-provoking sculptures throughout the enchanted Forest of Dean landscape. Parking at Beechenhurst Lodge provides easy access to trail maps, toilets and café facilities, while the conveniently located Go Ape centre offers additional tree-top adventures for the more adventurous among you.

Blaize Bailey Viewpoint

Climbing approximately 200 metres above sea level rewards you with remarkable views overlooking the River Severn and the distinctive Oxbow bend around Arlingham. The ascent from Sudley Ponds delivers amazing vistas across the Severn Valley, whilst an alternative track provides a longer but more gradual route for those preferring easier access. Constructed from recycled railway bridge stone, the lookout walls provide fascinating evidence of historic forestry management and demonstrate the long-standing relationship between natural resources and maritime industries.

Pettycroft Viewpoint

Spectacular sunrise and sunset vistas make this beloved local viewpoint particularly magical when golden light transforms the surrounding Forest of Dean landscape. Located at Box Tree Cottage on School Lane in Ruardean, this elevated position captures hearts with its stunning panoramic countryside views. The sweeping vistas showcase the natural beauty and rolling hills that define this enchanting Gloucestershire region, making it a photographer’s paradise throughout the changing seasons.

Soudley Ponds

Church Road in Soudley leads to this gorgeous forest destination that nature lovers must experience firsthand. Beautiful woodland walks wind around tranquil lakes and country paths, offering both short strolls and longer hiking options. Wild deer roam freely throughout the area whilst birds and insects create a vibrant ecosystem and the heritage centre across the road provides convenient parking with easy access to the lake area through connecting bridges and stepped dams.

Woorgreens Nature Reserve

This magnificent nature preserve offers visitors an expansive wilderness that’s impossible to explore entirely in one day. Multiple trails wind through pristine forest environments where you might encounter geese, frogs, lizards and various other wildlife species. The completely litter-free environment maintains clean, fresh air throughout, whilst the free car park beside the pond allows unlimited stays, though visitors should remain vigilant for adders that occasionally bask in sunny spots.

For convenient access to neighbouring regions, consider these nearby destinations:

• Forest of Dean
• Coleford
• Lydney
• Cambridge
• Newent
• Quedgeley
• Newport
• Stonehouse

Ruspidge Recreation Ground

Ruspidge Road provides access to this amazing local park that offers safe and secure facilities for families with small children. Located in a peaceful village setting near Cinderford, this well-maintained recreation ground serves the local community with excellent amenities. The secure environment makes it particularly appealing to parents seeking reliable outdoor spaces, whilst its village location provides a charming contrast to the wilder forest environments found elsewhere in the region.

Linear Park

St White’s Road in Ruspidge showcases how thoughtful development can enhance the natural landscape of this forest region. The extensively improved landscaping creates excellent wildlife habitats whilst maintaining accessibility for visitors with walking difficulties or mobility challenges. Built along the corridor of a former railway line, this innovative green space demonstrates successful environmental restoration, providing both recreational opportunities and important conservation benefits for local wildlife populations.

Littledean Jail

Operating four days weekly from Thursday through Sunday, 10 AM until 5 PM, this unique museum within an authentic old jail offers visitors an extraordinary historical experience. Located on Church Street in Littledean, this fascinating attraction showcases the darker aspects of historical criminality through an extensive collection spanning multiple rooms across two floors, plus outbuildings. The atmospheric prison cells enhance the visitor experience, though we recommend adults exercise discretion as the content addresses mature themes and might not suit all sensibilities.

Dean Heritage Centre

Every single day from 10 in the morning until 4 in the afternoon, this lovely museum serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the wider Forest of Dean region. Camp Mill in Soudley houses a treasure trove of local history combined with dog-friendly café facilities and complimentary parking that enhances the visitor experience. Beautiful lakes and extensive grounds across the road offer relaxing walks extending into the broader Forest of Dean, creating a perfect combination of cultural education and natural exploration.

St. Anthony’s Well

Beautiful and secluded, this historical landmark in Littledean offers peaceful contemplation and natural exploration opportunities in pristine woodland settings. Multiple paths branch in different directions from the parking area, providing extended walking options through untouched forest environments. The well and surrounding stream create an ice-cold natural environment where children can play safely during summer months, whilst the tranquil setting encourages visitors to spend contemplative hours in this timeless location.

Tribute To The Miners Of The Forest Of Dean

Proudly commemorating the region’s industrial heritage, this impressive statue and tribute stand as a reminder of the mining community that once formed the backbone of local industry. Positioned on High Street in Cinderford town centre, the monument provides an easily accessible historical context for visitors exploring the area. This central location helps visitors understand the community’s remarkable transformation from industrial hub to modern forest town.

Cinderford Rusty Pole

Adventure awaits the truly intrepid at this intriguing historical landmark that joins the distinguished company of polar explorers’ achievements. Located on Littledean Hill Road, the challenging destination requires determination and navigation skills since no commercial routes provide easy access. The final approach must be completed on foot, making successful completion a distinctive achievement worthy of inclusion in personal memoirs for those brave enough to attempt this unique expedition.

Pan Tod Beacon

Spectacular panoramic vistas across the surrounding Forest of Dean landscape make this amazing sculpture a magnet for visitors seeking artistic installations combined with natural beauty. Positioned on Ruardean Hill in Drybrook, the elevated location provides excellent views despite the unfortunately poor maintenance of public footpaths marked on Ordnance Survey maps. While overgrown routes and blocked access points prevent easy exploration, the beacon itself remains a worthwhile destination for those willing to persevere.