The Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail
Nested in the Gloucestershire Countryside is the Wonderful Forest of Dean. A National Forest that covers 110 Square Kilometres, its heritage goes back to before 1066 when it was used as a royal hunting forest. We are so lucky to have it a within an hours distance away.
Today we decided to wander around the Sculpture Trail, a 5 mile walk taking in a number of unique and interesting sculptures and structures, whilst walking through the beautiful forest with its amazing wildlife and picturesque views.
Its the perfect place to get lost in the forest and enjoy some wonderful fresh air.
After finding a parking space, we ambled over to start the trail walk. Easily accessible to walkers and bikes, its also enjoyable looking for each sculpture.
HEART OF THE STONE
The first we came to a 1988 sculpture by Tim Lees. Inspired by the mines the six ton piece of stone from a nearby quarry symbolises hope and rebirth.
YASASIN
A beautiful wooden sculpture a bit further along was this one! Called Yasasin meaning Hooray in Turkish, its a wooden piece from 2016 and plays the perfect part in the sculpture trail.
HOUSE
On to another sculpture, this is one of my favourites. This sculpture is called House! It was made in 1988 and emulates the surrounding trees and mine shafts! I think its pretty cool!
More interesting and unique sculptures are dotted around the pretty forest, I think theres about 16 at the moment, but some get decommissioned due to weather and corrosion, and new ones appear, its ever evolving.
CATHEDRAL
One of the final Sculptures along the trail and that really is an eye catcher is Cathedral a 1986 sculpture. This hanging glass window reflects the light beautifully and looks just magnificent hanging from the trees in all its glory.
Well worth a visit, this free little gem of a find is perfect for anyone who enjoys the outdoors and nature.
Check out the website here : https://www.forestofdean-sculpture.org.uk/