Animal experiences in the Forest of Dean
As well as the local wildlife, petting zoos, llama walks and swooping hawks are waiting for you in the Forest of Dean. From farm visits to more up close and personal experiences you’re sure to meet your new favourite animal on your next visit to the Forest of Dean.
Wye Valley Alpacas
Not your usual farmyard animals, the Wye Valley Alpacas are a friendly bunch. They really let their personalities shine, and it won’t be long until you get to know them. Book a visit to spend time with them, hand-feeding and getting some well earned Alpaca cuddles. They can be curious creatures and you’ll learn everything these is to know about them. While at the farm you’ll also meet the pigs who would love some belly rubs!
Perfect for animal loving families, time slots are booked just for your group so you have the most memorable experience possible
Puzzlewood
Better known for its mysterious woodlands, Puzzlewood also has a small menagerie of animals! After you’ve explored amongst the trees you’ll find animals that you wouldn’t expect to spot in the Forest of Dean. Highland cows, Shetland ponies, goats, sheep, ducks and chickens are waiting to meet you. It’s a fantastic way to end your visit, and there’s even a play area and willow maze (at certain times of the year).
Book online before you visit and make sure you check the opening times as they vary throughout the year.
Briery Hill Llamas
Spend the day getting to know Stardust, Horace and Muddles. Take them for a spa treatment, brushing their hair and giving them a massage is not only relaxing for them, but it’s also really calming for yourself! If you fancy a really decadent experience, book a llama experience and afternoon tea (gluten free, vegan and vegetarian options available). You’ll get to take a llama for a walk and learn more about them, you can also add on meeting the baby llamas. At Briery Hill you can also book a pig experience or spend a full day on the farm feeding the llamas, meeting the cows and looking after the hens.
Visit the website to see all the experiences available and get in touch to see if any baby llamas have been born before visiting.
Dean Farm Trust
Just outside Chepstow, this animal sanctuary takes in ponies, hens, cows, sheep and more to give them a better life. They hold open days throughout the year to help raise funds giving you the chance to meet the 200 residents. There will be a range of stalls and you can sign up to sponsor your favourite animal, a great way to help this fantastic charity. Vegan food and drinks are available on-site during open days.
It’s worth booking ahead as tickets do sell out!
Wye Valley Falconry
At Wye Valley Falconry, birds of prey are celebrated. Luke is passionate about his birds and knows all of their characteristics and quirks. When you book an experience you are able to fly up to 7 birds. Their features and hunting methods are explained, demonstrating why these birds are so special. At the centre are owls, falcons and hawks, beautiful birds who love doing what they do. If you have a favourite and book a hawk or an owl experience to really get to know them. During the game season you can also choose a hunting experience to see the birds in action.
As well as visiting for an experience you can also sponsor one of the birds!
Over Farm Countryside Adventure
Over Farm is a hub of activity with a farm shop, a wedding venue and café. With special events held throughout school holidays, it’s got everything you need to keep the children busy. When you arrive, get some animal feed and meet the greedy animals waiting along the animal trail. All of your favourite farmyard animals are here as well as ostriches and llamas! It’s a real farm experience where you can hop on a tractor ride and see everything that’s on offer here. After meeting the animals head to mini golf or one of the play areas.
Book ahead to make sure the farm is open and to get the best price.
