Dean Heritage Centre: Living History of the Forest of Dean
Explore the Forest of Dean’s heritage through interactive exhibits, woodland trails, and family-friendly activities at the Dean Heritage Centre.
The Dean Heritage Centre in Soudley offers an immersive experience into the unique history and heritage of the Forest of Dean. Set on a five-acre site, it features five interactive galleries, a woodland playground, a Gruffalo Trail, a coffee shop, and a gift shop. Visitors can explore traditional crafts, mining, forestry, and domestic life through authentic artifacts and reconstructed workshops. The centre combines indoor and outdoor exhibits with seasonal events, making it a perfect family day out.
A brief summary to Dean Heritage Centre
- Camp Mill, Forest of Dean, Soudley, GL14 2UB, GB
- +441594822170
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds and a more intimate experience.
- Take advantage of the Rainy Day Guarantee for a free return visit if outdoor activities are affected by weather.
- Bring children to enjoy the dressing-up area and craft hut for hands-on learning and creativity.
- Dogs are welcome in the coffee shop and gift shop but not in the museum or on the Gruffalo Trail.
- Allow 2–3 hours to fully explore the galleries, trails, and playground.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Gloucester or nearby towns takes about 25–40 minutes via the A4151 and B4226 roads. Free onsite parking is available, but note the car park closes 30 minutes after the centre’s closing time.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Cinderford and Coleford to Soudley with a 15–25 minute ride. From the bus stop, the centre is a 10-minute walk through gentle terrain. Check current schedules as service frequency varies.
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Walking
For active visitors, walking from Soudley village center to the centre takes about 15 minutes on well-maintained paths, suitable for families and accessible with moderate mobility.
Dean Heritage Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Dean Heritage Centre
Preserving the Forest's Rich Heritage
The Dean Heritage Centre is dedicated to safeguarding and sharing the fascinating history of the Forest of Dean, a region known for its distinctive mining and forestry traditions. Spread over five acres in the tranquil Soudley Valley, the centre offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the lives of those who shaped this unique landscape. The museum's five galleries trace the area's story from prehistoric times through to the resilience of local communities during World War II.Engaging and Interactive Exhibits
The centre prides itself on its hands-on approach to learning. Visitors can explore reconstructed cottages, workshops, and a charcoal burner's camp, all furnished with genuine artifacts. Children especially enjoy the dressing-up area and craft hut, where they can engage with history through play and creativity. Free backpacks filled with accessories encourage young visitors to dive deeper into the stories behind the exhibits.Outdoor Adventures and the Gruffalo Trail
Beyond the indoor galleries, the Dean Heritage Centre offers a woodland playground and the popular Gruffalo Trail, an enchanting walk inspired by the beloved children's story. The trail features character sculptures and is a gentle 15-minute walk, ideal for families. Although dogs are welcome in the coffee shop and gift shop, they are not permitted on the trail or in the museum grounds.Café and Shopping Amenities
The on-site coffee shop, located on the upper level, provides a relaxing spot to enjoy a range of breakfasts, lunches, snacks, and drinks, with scenic views overlooking the mill pond. The gift shop offers locally made crafts and souvenirs, perfect for commemorating your visit. Both venues welcome dogs, making it convenient for visitors with pets.Community and Events
As a registered charity, the Dean Heritage Centre relies on visitor support to continue its mission. Throughout the year, it hosts special events, exhibitions, art shows, and educational workshops, enriching the visitor experience and fostering community engagement. Seasonal highlights include festive celebrations and guided woodland walks that reveal the natural beauty and hidden gems of the surrounding forest.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
The centre is designed to be family-friendly with accessible facilities including disabled toilets and ample free parking. Its Rainy Day Guarantee ensures visitors can enjoy the museum’s indoor exhibits even in poor weather, with a voucher offered for a return visit if outdoor activities are disrupted. Typical visits last between two and three hours, making it an ideal day trip destination in Gloucestershire.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Harold's Stones
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Museum Of Gloucester
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Gloucester Cathedral
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Eastgate viewing chamber
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St Oswald's Priory
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King's Board
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The Ancient Ram Inn (Advance Book only)
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Painswick Rococo Garden
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Painswick Beacon
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Gloucester Hole
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Unmissable attractions to see
Go Ape Mallards Pike, Forest of Dean
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Cathedral sculpture
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A mesmerizing stained glass window suspended in the Forest of Dean, blending art with nature on a celebrated woodland sculpture trail.
Cyril Hart Arboretum - Forestry England
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St. Anthony's Well
5.2 km
Discover the serene and historic St. Anthony's Well, a sacred spring famed for healing waters and ancient woodland mystique in Gloucestershire.
Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail
5.2 km
Explore 18 inspiring sculptures woven through 4.5 miles of ancient Forest of Dean woodland, where art and nature create a unique outdoor gallery.
Cannop Ponds - Forestry England
5.7 km
Historic reservoirs turned tranquil wildlife haven and picnic spot in the heart of the Forest of Dean.
Garden Cliff
5.7 km
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Hopewell Colliery
6.2 km
Explore authentic underground coal mining heritage in the scenic Forest of Dean at Hopewell Colliery, a working museum with guided tours and rich history.
National Trust - Westbury Court Garden
6.2 km
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Pan Tod Beacon
7.1 km
Discover the Forest of Dean’s highest point with stunning views and a heartfelt miners’ memorial nestled in tranquil woodland.
Puzzlewood
8.5 km
Step into Puzzlewood’s ancient, mossy labyrinth where fantasy meets nature in Gloucestershire’s magical Forest of Dean.
Coleford Great Western Railway Museum
8.7 km
Step back into 1883 at Coleford’s original GWR Goods station, where authentic railway heritage and miniature train rides bring history to life.
Clearwell Caves
9.0 km
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Visit The Cotswolds
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May Hill
11.1 km
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Essential places to dine
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The Bell Inn
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The Potting Shed Whitchurch
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Miller & Carter Gloucester
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The Pig & Apple
15.7 km
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G Burger
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Creates Monmouth
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Whole Earth Bistro
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La Taverna Restaurant
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The Castle Inn
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La Piccola Italia
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The Red Door Deli & Diner
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The Anchor Inn
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The Wild Hare
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Lion Inn Trellech
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Moonstones - The Alternative Gift Shop
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Bumble Living
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Discover stylish homewares, unique gifts, and fashion at Bumble Living, Monmouth’s boutique for indoor and outdoor living inspiration.
Millets
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Trusted outdoor gear and clothing shop in Monmouth, perfect for adventurers exploring the Welsh borders.
White Stuff Monmouth
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Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for the whole family at White Stuff Monmouth on historic Monnow Street.
Salt & Pepper Ltd
15.8 km
A welcoming Monmouth kitchen supply and coffee shop with locally sourced delights, a sunny terrace, and a dog-friendly, fully licensed atmosphere.
Dylan's Den Crystal and Jewellery Shop
15.9 km
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La piazza
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Harts
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Grape Tree Monmouth
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Envee Of Monmouth
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Labels Shopping
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Wye Valley Country Store Ltd
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Gloucester Quays
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Bumble Bee
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Man Of Ross
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The Robin Hood Inn
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The Gate House
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The Green Dragon Inn
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The Rose & Crown, Tintern
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Avenue
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Brewhouse & Kitchen - Gloucester Quays
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TANK
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly