Disclaimer: We were gifted a weekend break at Whitemead Forest Park in exchange for our honest opinion. Some of the activities and meals were also gifted; some were paid for with our money. All opinions and images are our own.
Nestled amidst the ancient beauty of the Forest of Dean lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered – Whitemead Forest Park. Join me on a journey back to nature, where the whispers of towering trees and the crisp forest air beckon you to leave behind the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Our family weekend break in a charming Woodland Lodge at Whitemead was not just a getaway; it was a nostalgic trip down memory lane for me, evoking childhood memories of holidays spent in the Forest of Dean camping with my Mum and Grandparents.
As we immersed ourselves in the tranquillity of our woodland retreat, surrounded by nature’s symphony, every moment became an adventure waiting to unfold. From exhilarating outdoor activities to mouthwatering meals that tantalized our taste buds, Whitemead offered us a sanctuary away from reality. Join me as I unravel the magic of this picturesque haven and share how this experience rekindled cherished memories while creating new moments that will be etched in our hearts forever.
Introducing Whitemead Forest Park
When it comes to escaping the daily grind, Whitemead Forest Park offers a true retreat amidst acres of enchanting woodland. From cosy log cabins to luxurious glamping mega-pods, self-catering apartments or even a bungalow, the accommodation options cater to every taste and preference. The indoor pool, gym, sauna, and steam room provide ample opportunities for relaxation, while the newly refurbished Foresters Bar ensure that delicious meals are never too far away.
For those seeking adventure, the Forest of Dean offers a plethora of exciting activities to enjoy within reach of Whitemead. Whether you’re exploring hiking trails or indulging in family-friendly entertainment at The Venue, there’s never a dull moment in this magical setting; for nature enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves fully in the beauty of their surroundings, caravan and camping pitches offer the perfect opportunity to experience the forest in all its glory. There is even a dog exercise park which I know our two boys would have loved (we didn’t bring them this time). At Whitemead Forest Park, every moment is an invitation to unwind, explore, and create lasting memories.
Childhood Memories: Revisiting the Forest of Dean
The Forest of Dean holds a special place in my heart, each visit unravelling layers of cherished memories. The rugged beauty of Yat Rock overlooking Symonds Yat, with its sweeping views and challenging terrain, now symbolises not just adventure but the resilience that comes with confronting obstacles head-on. As I retraced familiar paths and navigated new ones, I found myself reflecting on the passage of time – how the essence of a place remains constant while we evolve around it.
While the physical landscape remained largely unchanged, I realised that revisiting childhood haunts allowed me to see them through adult eyes and, at the same time, see them afresh through the eyes of my children. As we reached the top and looked over this wall, Ollie declared “that’s an Oxbow in the River” I looked at him totally blank awaiting an explanation. He said it gets its’ name from the collar around an Ox’s neck when used in ploughing. According to Ollie, over time the river will find a shorter, easier course, meet up and form a lake. Every day is a learning day!
The carefree days spent exploring Ross-on-Wye were now tinged with nostalgia and appreciation for the simplicity of those moments spent in nature’s embrace. The caravan trips with my Mum, orchestrated by my Grandad, became more than just summer getaways; they were a testament to familial love spanning distances and generations. Each step taken in the Forest of Dean was a step back in time, and it reminded me of the enduring power of memory and connection to place.
Accommodation: Cosy Woodland Lodge
As we settled into our Woodland Lodge, the peaceful surroundings enveloped us in a sense of tranquillity. The rustling leaves and the gentle gurgle of the stream behind us created a symphony of nature that soothed our spirits. Each morning, we would step onto the front deck with a cup of coffee, feeling grateful for the opportunity to immerse ourselves in such beauty.
The layout of the lodge allowed for both privacy and togetherness – whether retreating to the en-suite bedroom for quiet moments or gathering around the dining table for lively meals and fun games. The blend of modern amenities with rustic charm made our stay not only comfortable but also memorable. Our time in this cosy Woodland Lodge served as a reminder to slow down, appreciate simplicity, and reconnect with nature in its purest form.
Activities: Nature walks, Swimming, Archery, and Outdoor Fun
Our days were a whirlwind of excitement and relaxation, each moment filled with laughter and new experiences. The archery sessions tested the Beans’ aim and precision, while the sea scooters in the pool added a touch of adrenaline to their aquatic adventures. In both Archery and Sea Scooters the Beans were instructed by Olly who was fantastic with them. Just the right amount of fun whilst keeping it professsional and ensuring they were doing everything properly and safely. The boys especially took to Olly and looked up to him.
The forest walk allowed us to reconnect with nature (and each other), breathing in the fresh air and marvelling at the lush surroundings and, of course, a game of pooh sticks!
We took time out to play Adventure Golf, Giant Draughts, and Connect4. I managed a solo trip to the gym, followed by relaxing in the jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room while Simon read a book at the poolside. The Beans were splashing about in the pool (do kids ever get bored of swimming?).
As the sun set, Simon and I were able to enjoy a glass of wine on the decking when the Beans went to a Teen Pool Party with new friends they had made in the park. Evenings were spent basking in the glow of victory at the Pub Quiz or trying our luck at Bingo and family challenges of boys vs. girls Pool that kept us on our toes. The evening entertainment brought us together as a family, laughing, singing and dancing together.
Dining: Delicious on-site restaurant meals
Foresters Bar was recently refurbished in February 2024 with the brief to ‘bring the outside in’, and they nailed it. It is modern and inviting, with a natural and tranquil ambience. The fake foliage walls add a touch of nature indoors, creating a fresh and vibrant atmosphere. The light wood furnishings and room dividers contribute to a sense of warmth and cosiness while also maintaining an airy and open feel. Soft furnishings in greens and blues further enhance the natural theme, evoking feelings of serenity and relaxation. Overall, the decor exudes a harmonious blend of modernity and nature, providing a comfortable and visually appealing dining experience.
In the morning, we eagerly scanned the menu in anticipation of a breakfast feast; Albie loved his crispy bacon in the bap, whilst Ollie savoured his sausages, and I ‘tried’ to be good with fluffy pancakes topped with sweet syrup. There were other options, of course; muesli, dotted with dried fruits and nuts, provided a healthy yet indulgent option for those seeking lighter fare – but this was not us!
Simon took one for the team and opted for the Full English Breakfast, such a hardship – every element meticulously cooked to perfection, from the sizzling sausages to the creamy scrambled eggs and buttery mushrooms.
Facilities: Recreational options for all ages
The range of recreational activities at Whitemead was truly impressive, offering something for every age group. From the creative buzz of Teddy bear-making to the thrill of Archery and Sea Scooters, there is never a dull moment. Mini Jet Skis and Water Walkerz provided exciting water-based experiences for adventurous souls that left lasting memories.
Young minds can enjoy options like Creative Crafts, Chocolate Party, Junior Baker, and Mad Scientist sessions. The popular Slime Making workshop added a touch of whimsy to the lineup. Even teenagers had their moment in the spotlight with exclusive events like Water Polo and the Teen Pool Party – ensuring that no one felt left out during their stay at Whitemead.
Escaping Reality: Bonding time and relaxation
As we sat down to our last breakfast before heading home, it dawned on us how rare it had become to simply be present with each other. The distractions of daily life seemed to melt away in the warmth of that moment, allowing us to truly bond without any pressure or hurry. Laughter filled the air as inside jokes were resurrected and new memories were formed.
The weekend away served as a gentle reminder that amidst our packed schedules and constant busyness, there is immense value in taking a step back and immersing ourselves in shared experiences. It was almost surreal how quickly we transitioned from being mere cohabitants at home to a tight-knit unit ready to take on any challenge together. In those fleeting days of escape, we learned that genuine connections thrive in moments of relaxation and unplugging from the chaotic pace of modern life.
Conclusion: Rejuvenating family getaway in the forest
In conclusion, a rejuvenating family getaway at Whitemead Forest Park offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure for all ages. The tranquil surroundings and abundance of activities provide an ideal setting for quality time spent together. From exploring the natural beauty of the forest to enjoying leisurely strolls or adrenaline-pumping outdoor pursuits, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Families can create lasting memories as they bond over shared experiences in this picturesque retreat.
Plan your next family escape to Whitemead Forest Park and experience the joy of reconnecting with nature and each other.
To give you an idea of price I have drawn up a list of how much our weekend away with activities would have cost for a family of 2 adults and 3 children aged 11 to 15 years.
