Forest Barns is a family-friendly private hamlet where children can enjoy space, nature, games and simple countryside fun, while adults relax in comfort.
From outdoor play, woodland walks and chicken feeding to wet-weather games, an under-5s play space and room for free-range adventures, there is plenty for families to enjoy without needing to get in the car every day.
Our five luxury cottages give families the privacy of their own self-catering space, with private hot tubs, gardens, Wi-Fi, Sky TV and access to the wider Forest Barns grounds. For larger families and multi-generational stays, our group options also allow everyone to stay close together while still having their own cottage space.
Family Fun at a Glance
| Outdoor Play | Swings, slide, trampoline and space to let off steam |
| Games Room | Table tennis, pool, air hockey, table football and board games |
| Under-5s | A dedicated play space for younger guests |
| Young Farmers | Dennis the Dexta tractor and chickens |
| Nature | Woodland walks, bluebells, wildlife and countryside from the door |
| Picnic Platform | Elevated tree platform for family picnics and views |
| Wet Weather | Indoor games and cottage comforts for rainy days |
| Family Cottages | Baby and toddler equipment available by request |
| Book Direct | Check Availability & Prices |
Outdoor Play and Countryside Freedom
Forest Barns gives children space to enjoy being outside. There is an outdoor play area with swings, slide and trampoline, plus gardens, open countryside and woodland walks to explore.
We want children to enjoy proper countryside holidays: fresh air, space, simple adventures, chickens, tractors, trees and time away from screens.
Children should always be supervised by their adults while playing outside or exploring the grounds.
Wet Weather Games
Rainy days are easier when there is somewhere for children, teenagers and adults to play.
Our heated games room includes table tennis, pool, air hockey and table football, with board games available to take back to your cottage.
Young Farmers and Chickens
Younger guests often love the simple pleasures of country life. Depending on timing and availability, children may be able to help feed the chickens and collect eggs.
Dennis the Dexta tractor is also part of the Young Farmers area, giving children another fun countryside feature to discover during their stay.
Under-5s Play Space
Travelling with babies and toddlers can be hard work, so we provide a dedicated play space for younger guests, along with baby and toddler equipment by request in the cottages.
Please request any baby or toddler items before arrival so that we can prepare your cottage properly.
Woodland Walks, Wildlife and Picnics
Families can enjoy woodland walks, bluebells in season, wildlife spotting, family picnics and views from our elevated tree platform.
The Forest of Dean is close by, with family days out, cycling, walking, steam railways, caves, sculpture trails and other local attractions within easy reach.
Planning a Family Stay?
Use our live booking calendar to check availability and prices across all Forest Barns cottages and group stays.
Explore More Family Fun On Site
For more detail, each relevant family-fun article is shown below with its photograph, short excerpt and Read More link.
Outdoor Fun & Natural Playground - Rope swings & more
Open space, small trees, a rope tyre swing and room for children to enjoy proper countryside freedom under adult supervision.
Wet Weather Games
Table tennis, pool, air hockey, table football and board games help keep families entertained on rainy days.
Under 5's Play Room
A cosy play space with soft play items, toddler toys and colouring materials for younger guests.
Budding Young Farmers feeding the chickens
Younger guests can enjoy the simple country pleasure of meeting the chickens and, depending on timing, helping to feed them.
Meet Dennis the Dexta
Dennis the Dexta tractor is part of the Young Farmers area and a fun countryside feature for children to discover.
Picnic Platform in the Trees
Plan a family picnic on the elevated tree platform and enjoy views across the Forest Barns countryside.
Self-Guided Walking
Use our walking guides for family adventures from the door, with woodland paths, forest tracks and countryside views.
Bluebells in May
In season, bluebells create a memorable woodland display around the hamlet and nearby countryside.
Wild boar / wildlife spotting
Keep your eyes open on local walks for wildlife around the Forest of Dean, including the chance of spotting wild boar.
