Puzzlewood
Puzzlewood
At Puzzlewood you can explore a mile of pathways winding through deep gulley’s of moss covered rocks, over wooden bridges and through fantastic tree and rock formations; all set in 14 acres of ancient woodland.
In addition to the wood, there are pony rides (holidays/weather permitting), farm animals, a willow maze, an indoor maze, playgrounds, picnic benches, cafe and gift shop selling local crafts.
What is the magic of Puzzlewood?
Is it the maze of pathways winding between the moss covered rocks, the twisted roots of the Yew trees or the bridges and ‘lookouts’ that you have to find on your way round? JRR Tolkien is reputed to have taken his inspiration for the fabled forests of Middle Earth from Puzzlewood, and it is easy to see why. You will find Puzzlewood to be an enchanting place. It has an atmosphere quite unlike any other wood you will have visited.
Puzzlewood has an interesting history; It was used for the mining of Iron ore until Roman times, nature then reclaimed the old workings until, in the early 1800s a local landowner laid down a mile of pathways which meandered through the trees and gulleys to open up this ancient forest; originally for the amusement of his friends and children. Since then it is has remained essentially unchanged with the same pathways and bridges as in earlier times, but with the addition of visitor facilities on the Puzzlewood site.
Willow Maze at Puzzlewood
The new Puzzlewood willow maze is a work of art in it's own right. The living willow structure has been designed and planted by The Willow Bank, Lydney. (www.thewillowbank.com)
Find your way through the celtic double spiral, walk through tunnels, and arches, find igloos and dead ends.
Over 4000 willow twigs from 7 different willow varieties were used in the construction of the Puzzlewood maze. The willow twigs were then woven to create this spectacular living sculpture.
Pony Rides at Puzzlewood
Available every weekend from 11am util 4pm. Suitable for total beginners.
Only £1.00 per ride.
Puzzlewood in the Movies
Puzzlewood is often used as a filming location. Have you spotted us in Doctor Who, Merlin, Jack the Giant Slayer or Atlantis?
Schools
Puzzlewood is an excellent destination for schools, colleges and groups. Not only is it a fun and physically active place, it can be linked to so many areas of the national curriculum. For example outdoor learning, literacy, history, geography, science, art and drama.
If the visit is purely for fun, the children can find our Things To Find hidden in the wood, explore the indoor mazes, meet our animals, let off steam in our willow maze and outdoor playground, then picnic and/or buy refreshments and souvenirs from our shop. Outdoor picnic tables and an indoor room are available. Contact helen@puzzlewood.net to arrange a free preview visit without obligation.
We are happy to tailor the visit to your needs.