Puzzlewood - Coleford

Neil F.

Puzzlewood: Where Nature, Magic, and Hollywood Collide

If you’ve ever wanted to step into a fantasy world without needing a passport, then Puzzlewood is the place to be. Nestled in the Forest of Dean, this ancient woodland looks like it was designed by a team of special effects wizards—probably because actual Hollywood special effects wizards keep filming here.

Yes, this is real-life movie magic. Puzzlewood has been the backdrop for Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Doctor Who, Merlin, and even The Secret Garden, and the second you step in, you’ll see why. Twisted, moss-covered trees, winding pathways, hidden bridges, and gnarly roots that look like they’ve been plucked straight from Middle-earth—it’s nature at its most cinematic. You half expect to see a Jedi training in the distance or stumble upon a medieval knight in full armour.

The Walks 🌳🧙‍♂️

Puzzlewood isn’t huge, but it’s packed with adventure. The trails wind and twist through this otherworldly landscape, making you feel like you’re on a quest rather than just out for a stroll. It’s perfect for kids, photographers, and anyone who enjoys pretending they’re in an enchanted forest (which, let’s be honest, is everyone).

The Café 🍰☕

After you’ve explored every magical corner, the café is a much-needed pit stop—and it’s surprisingly fantastic. Some touristy places serve up basic, overpriced fare, but not here. Expect great coffee, hearty lunches, and cakes so good you’ll consider making a second trip around the forest just to justify another slice. Whether you’re after a proper cuppa and a scone or something more filling, they’ve got you covered.

The Verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Puzzlewood isn’t just a walk in the woods—it’s an adventure, a film set, and a portal to another world. Whether you’re a movie buff, a nature lover, or just someone who appreciates a woodland wander followed by a slice of excellent cake, this place is an absolute must-visit.

Five stars—plus an extra one for every time I turned a corner and half expected to see Yoda.

Lou E.

Beautiful, what an amazing woodland site, which has been used for many films. Lucky to have a sunny morning as we wandered around puzzle Wood. Magical wooden seats are situated around the numerous pathways, and steps that lead you through the ancient trees, moss covered rocks and boulders, which tower over you, walk over beautiful wooden bridges as you wander along on different levels, looking up and below, into what feels like a different world, so relaxing but also a great adventure.
Sandwiches in the small cafe are delicious.
First visit for a while.... So glad we visited again, it's such a magical wood

Emese V.

Although smaller than we expected still it's a magical place to visit. Beautiful autumn colours, so different trees,really isn't a casual forest. For me the Caffè was a bonus as they served the food with gluten free options.We bought the ticket online.Children playground and little animal park are on the site. I really recommend this place <3

Susan T.

I understood some bad reviews regarding the prices. It's not very large place to walk around, roughly 1 hours including stop for taking pictures however there's few animals such as goats, ducks, chickens etc so the way I see it the price is cover their foods and employers. Very beautiful area though, I really like this kind of unique woods/rocks. Have to stay on path, some I wish I could walk through gorge. But it's would be fantastic for children explores and be wow through their eyes. The only reason I went for Kodama which I love Japanese Ghibli.

Sandra F.

Absolutely loved this walk, it looks amazing makes you feel your in another world how the trees look like they are bursting out of the rocks, can be slippery and good walking shoes are needed. Great fun for adults and children. There are animals, donkey, goats, running ducks, pony's. (Even managed to get a pic of a very friendly cat) beautiful day out, lovely cafe, and small shop. Fun for all.

Jamie S.

Lovely place to visit.

My best advice is to get there early to enjoy the woods at their quietest, but whatever time you get there, you'll have a great time.

Joanna F.

My mum came here previously on her previous forest of dean adventures before taking me here, we came here two weeks ago and I couldn't believe what I had seen I was well over the moon! It felt as though we both got a good workout in and saw the amazing sculptures that they had in the forest.

It was a very awesome walk and a very amazing morning/afternoon out! We saw some animals, ponies, a cat and some pretty flowers in the garden! I loved it and my mother loved it 🤩 (and they had some amazing animals graffiti art in the barn bit) 😊

Uday K.

Amazing place and fun loving one, if you want to get lost in the woods with puzzles, definitely must go places and mainly young kids enjoy it a lot. Just mesmerize with nature. I went with friends and loved this and wanted to visit with my real friends.