Wenchford is a peaceful picnic and paddling spot hidden within the beautiful Forest of Dean, offering families a relaxing place to enjoy nature, woodland walks and gentle water play during the warmer months.

Wenchford | Family Picnic and Paddling Spot in the Forest of Dean

• Location: Wenchford, near Blakeney, Forest of Dean
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• Facilities: Picnic area, shallow paddling brook, woodland trail and parking
• Parking: Pay and display parking available

If you are looking for a calm and scenic family day out in the Forest of Dean, Wenchford is one of the area’s hidden gems. Surrounded by woodland and crossed by the gentle Blackpool Brook, it is a lovely place for families wanting to relax, paddle and enjoy nature together.

The shallow brook and paddling area are especially popular during spring and summer, giving children a safe and refreshing place to dip their toes, splash around and cool off beneath the shade of the large oak trees.

Wenchford is also known as one of the best picnic spots in the Forest of Dean, with grassy open spaces and picnic tables scattered throughout the site.

Paddling at Wenchford

A shallow, family-friendly paddling area can be found just a short walk from the car park through the picnic area. The gentle brook is ideal for younger children wanting a simple outdoor adventure surrounded by nature.

On warm summer days, families often spend hours relaxing beside the water, paddling in the brook and enjoying picnics beneath the trees.

As this is a natural water area, children should always be supervised closely around the brook.

Picnics at Wenchford

Wenchford is one of the most peaceful picnic locations in the Forest of Dean. Families can enjoy open grassy spaces, picnic benches and the sounds of the woodland and flowing brook nearby.

If you are planning a picnic, please remember to take all litter home with you.

Please note: Open fires, disposable barbecues, camping stoves and portable BBQs are not permitted at Wenchford.

Walking Trails

The Blackpool Brook Trail is a gentle 1km woodland route that follows the brook beneath the dappled shade of the trees. The path is mostly hard surfaced and suitable for a relaxed family stroll.

Visitors can also explore additional forest tracks surrounding Wenchford, although these routes are not signposted.

Opening Times

• November – February: 8am – 5pm
• March: 8am – 6.30pm
• April: 8am – 8pm
• May – August: 8am – 9pm
• September: 8am – 7.30pm
• October: 8am – 6.30pm

Wenchford is often quieter during weekdays outside of school holidays, earlier in the morning and later in the afternoon.

Parking Information

• Up to 2 hours: £2.50
• Up to 4 hours: £4.50
• All day: £5.50
• Free for visitors arriving by bike or public transport
• Accessible parking spaces available
• Card and RingGo payments accepted

Good to know

• Bring towels and spare clothes for paddling
• Perfect for picnics and relaxed family walks
• Natural shallow brook for water play
• Great shaded areas during hot weather
• No BBQs or fires allowed
• Dogs welcome in the forest area

Looking for more family-friendly places to visit in the Forest of Dean? Discover woodland walks, paddling spots, parks and outdoor adventures for kids nearby on the Forest of Dean Rocks