Cheltenham Rocks

Wenchford

Places to Visit

If you’re 2 weeks into summer holidays (and more weeks than you care to remember into lockdown!) and stuck on days out for the kids that aren’t going to break the bank then Wenchford could be your saviour.

Hidden away in Forest of Dean, this gem is the ideal picnic spot for kids of all ages. 40 mins drive from Cheltenham and within a few miles of Beechenhurst Lodge, the Sculpture Trail and Go Ape sites, this beautiful meandering stream and grassy surrounding woodlands are the best way to spend a summers day.

The stream is shallow enough for non-swimmers and the youngest of children, great for dam building, stone collecting or just paddling; crocs, aqua shoes or wellies are recommended as the stones can be quite uncomfortable. Follow the stream along to find a quieter spot, and you’ll find various rope swings scattered throughout. It means that even on the busier days you can always find a peaceful spot to sit or paddle.

Another appealing aspect for parents to note is the amount of shade to sit in, even if the sun is beating down you can always find ample shade, whatever you’re into!

A few points to note:

  • The carpark is small and by 11am it is pretty full so get there early. It is also coins only; £5 gets you an allday ticket
  • There is a container café that opens from 11am but that is also cash only
  • There is no phone signal anywhere in the carpark or down at the picnic site. Literally none! So, prepare to be “off the grid” for the day
  • There are toilets on site that are clean and well stocked

Other than that, get your swimmers on, pack your picnic and enjoy what this magical spot has to offer.

A write-up from Hannah, mum to Bertie (7), Lomie (4) and Chester (4 months),

Opening Hours

MondayOpen
TuesdayOpen
WednesdayOpen
ThursdayOpen
FridayOpen
SaturdayOpen
SundayOpen

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