Are you a parent navigating the delightful challenge of seeking out a perfect venue for a meal that accommodates both adult whims and children’s rambunctious energy? This quest can feel daunting, especially when you want to relish a peaceful dining experience while your little ones frolic safely nearby. The Forest of Dean, with its stunning natural vistas and captivating woodlands, is dotted with friendly pubs that cater to both groups. Here’s a list of ten recommended pubs with play areas, ensuring everyone in your family leaves happy!
1. The Five Acres
Address: Five Acres, Coleford, GL16 7QH
Contact: 01594 832 013
Website: fiveacrespub.co.uk
The Five Acres offers an extensive outdoor space complete with a delightful play area for the younger patrons. This charming pub is particularly popular for its scrumptious Sunday roasts, making it a perfect weekend retreat for families. With the play area situated within view, parents can sip on their drinks without worry while the kids explore and engage in creative play.
2. The Miners Arms
Address: Miners Arms, Newland, GL16 8NB
Contact: 01594 833 432
Website: minersarmsnewland.co.uk
Set against a backdrop of the rolling countryside, The Miners Arms boasts a spacious play zone featuring climbing frames and swings. This pub embraces a rustic aesthetic and serves up hearty meals rooted in local ingredients. The warm, welcoming atmosphere invites families to linger longer, giving children ample time to explore while parents enjoy a leisurely lunch.
3. The White Horse Inn
Address: White Horse Inn, Blakeney, GL15 4AA
Contact: 01594 516 064
Website: whitehorseinnblakeney.co.uk
Charming and traditional, The White Horse Inn is famed for its friendly service and family-oriented vibes. Its outdoor play area offers various fun equipment suitable for all ages, ensuring no child feels left out. With a diverse menu laden with both classic and innovative dishes, it’s an ideal spot for family gatherings or casual lunches alike.
4. The Plough Inn
Address: The Plough Inn, Redbrook, NP25 4LE
Contact: 01291 650 203
Website: theploughinnredbrook.co.uk
Offering picturesque views of the Wye Valley, The Plough Inn combines serene surroundings with a children’s play area. The pub’s façade exudes classic charm, while its menu features mouthwatering dishes crafted from locally sourced produce. Dining al fresco is especially pleasant during warmer months, as the kids enjoy the outdoor play facilities.
5. The New Inn
Address: New Inn, Parkend, GL15 4HY
Contact: 01594 562 160
Website: newinnparkend.co.uk
This delightful establishment is renowned for its fantastic selection of ales and a vibrant children’s play area. The New Inn’s family-friendly options extend to picnic-style meals perfect for a sunny afternoon. Enjoying food here becomes an effortless task as the children occupy themselves in a safe environment nearby.
6. The Foresters’ Arms
Address: The Foresters’ Arms, Lydney, GL15 5RT
Contact: 01594 844 476
Website: forestersarmslydney.co.uk
A favourite among locals, The Foresters’ Arms features a well-sized play area filled with imaginative play structures designed to enchant little explorers. The rustic pub offers a range of traditional dishes and refreshing beverages that cater to varying palates, making it a superb family dining option.
7. The Crown and Sceptre
Address: Crown and Sceptre, Cheltenham Road, GL14 3PA
Contact: 01452 760 693
Website: crownandsceptrepub.co.uk
The Crown and Sceptre strikes a perfect balance between upscale dining and casual comfort. Families will treasure the well-maintained outdoor play area where children can safely amuse themselves. Enjoy dishes made from fresh, local ingredients while you engage in conversation with loved ones, as the kids revel in carefree laughter.
8. The Royal Oak
Address: The Royal Oak, Longhope, GL17 0NA
Contact: 01452 830 208
Website: royaloaklonghope.co.uk
The Royal Oak provides an inviting retreat complete with a secured play area. Its menu is a delightful blend of classic pub dishes and seasonal specials that will please every family member. The ethos here is community and comfort, making it a celebrated spot for family outings and celebratory feasts.
9. The George
Address: The George, Newent, GL18 1AR
Contact: 01531 820 335
Website: georgenewent.co.uk
The George stands out with its spacious, well-equipped children’s play area nestled in a tranquil garden setting. Soak up an exuberant atmosphere while enjoying an impressive array of both traditional and contemporary dishes. With its dedicated staff attuned to family needs, it’s easy to see why this venue is frequently chosen for family outings.
10. The Bell Inn
Address: The Bell Inn, Upton Bishop, HR9 7BT
Contact: 01989 780 373
Website: bellinnuptonbishop.co.uk
Concluding our journey, The Bell Inn boasts a friendly ambiance and a hard-to-resist children’s play area. Known for its robust menu brimming with local flavours, it promises not only delectable meals for adults but also an ideal setting for kids to engage joyfully in their play. Bring the family for an unforgettable dining experience right in the heart of the countryside.
As you embark on this culinary adventure through the Forest of Dean, the choice is clear: delight your taste buds, indulge in some local brew, and watch your children create memories in playful bliss. Each of these pubs offers something unique, catering to your family’s diverse needs. Which one will you choose to embark on your family dining challenge?
