There are places that feel like stepping into another world, and Puzzlewood in Coleford is absolutely one of them. I visited this place in autumn, and honestly, because we were the only one on the site, it felt surreal: the atmospheric landscape, the moss-covered trees straight out of a fairytale, or the fact that so many movies and shows have been filmed there. And I didn’t even know until I visited!
A Hidden Gem in Gloucestershire
Puzzlewood is tucked away in the Forest of Dean, a beautiful, ancient woodland in Gloucestershire. It’s not far from the Welsh border. The walk itself is a loop through an ancient forest that’s been shaped by nature and humans over thousands of years. During Roman times, this area was mined for iron ore. You can still spot traces of the deep, mossy trenches that have been slowly reclaimed by nature. Over time, trees grew in wild, curling forms over the rocks, creating this atmospheric landscape.
Movie Magic Meets Nature
Puzzlewood’s unique look hasn’t gone unnoticed. It’s been a filming location for Star Wars: The Force Awakens or Doctor Who. Walking through the twisted roots and winding paths, it’s easy to see why. In The Force Awakens (2015), Puzzlewood stands in for the forested planet of Takodana. The forest has inspired filmmakers and is said to have influenced the visual design of magical forests in fantasy films, including the Harry Potter universe. It does have Harry Potter vibes because it resembles places like the Forbidden Forest.
A Short But Sweet Escape
The trail through Puzzlewood isn’t long, about 1.5km, but it invites you to explore. There are little wooden bridges, caves, and stone steps that make you feel like you’re on a fantasy quest. It’s perfect for families, solo adventurers, or anyone looking for a peaceful walk in nature. There’s also a small farm area with animals plus a shop and café where you can grab a hot drink after your stroll.
When to Go
Autumn was a perfect time to visit. The forest floor was carpeted with fallen leaves, and the light filtering through the trees gave everything a golden glow. I’d imagine spring is magical too, with fresh greenery and wildflowers. Just a heads up: the paths can be a bit uneven and muddy, especially after it rains. As you can see in my photos, it hadn’t rained the day before, but the humidity was still hanging in the air, so the ground was still pretty slippery. That’s why I went with gum boots, and I’m glad I did.
What to visit next?
Bourton-on-the-Water
If you’re coming from the Cotswolds, I would suggest stopping at the village of Bourton-on-the-Water is approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers), which typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes by car, depending on traffic..
Abbey Tintern
After Puzzlewood, I continued my drive into Wales and made my way to Tintern Abbey, just about 25 minutes away. If you’re into history and atmospheric ruins, I definitely recommend a visit. It’s a shortstop. I’ve already written a whole post about that spot, you can check it out here.
Cleddon Shoots
If you want to go for a quick hike, Cleddon Shoots waterfall is a 15 minutes drive (6.6 miles) from Puzzlewood.
Visiting Puzzlewood
Location: Puzzlewood, Perrygrove Road, Coleford, GL16 8QB
Opening times: Usually open daily from 10am
Tickets: Around £8–£10 for adults, £6–£8 for kids
Parking: On-site and free
