Soudley Ponds
A serene woodland escape in the Forest of Dean, featuring tranquil ponds and scenic walking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Soudley Ponds
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene woodland escape in the Forest of Dean, featuring tranquil ponds and scenic walking trails.
"Beautiful and serene with lots of places to explore if you want some peace and quiet."
Free Parking Available
Park at the Dean Heritage Centre for free access to the ponds. :car:
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for woodland paths and potential muddy sections. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Soudley Ponds Loop
Forest of Dean
A serene loop walk around tranquil ponds, surrounded by lush greenery and woodland.
Dean Heritage Centre
Across from the ponds
A charming spot to park, grab a coffee, and browse a cute gift shop after your walk.
Blaize Bailey Viewpoint
Hilltop near Soudley Ponds
Brave the uphill walk for stunning panoramic views of the River Severn valley.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Walks for Every Pace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Parking Available
Park at the Dean Heritage Centre for free access to the ponds. :car:
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for woodland paths and potential muddy sections. :athletic_shoe:
Extend Your Walk
Venture deeper into the forest for longer hikes and more exploration. :hiking_boot:
Dog-Friendly (on lead)
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Parking Available
Park at the Dean Heritage Centre for free access to the ponds. :car:
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for woodland paths and potential muddy sections. :athletic_shoe:
Extend Your Walk
Venture deeper into the forest for longer hikes and more exploration. :hiking_boot:
Dog-Friendly (on lead)
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times. :dog:
Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for wild deer, birds, and insects. Bird app recommended! :bird:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Soudley Ponds for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful natural scenery, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful walk. The free parking and accessibility from the Dean Heritage Centre are noted positives, though some mention the ponds are private fishing spots. It's a highly recommended location for nature lovers seeking a serene escape.
"This is a quiet and peaceful part of the forest. The parking is free, and it's only a 20 min walk to the end of the ponds and Dean Heritage centre, where you can grab a coffee and browse a very cute gift shop. If you brave the walk up the hill to the viewing point, you get to see the river Severn snaking through the valley."
Natalia Valentova
"Great place for people of all ages to visit and good for dog walking too"
Jamie Douglas
"Fantastic scenery and very enjoyable walk. Another lovely forest retreat to enjoy the walks available around this tranquil pond , opportunities to keep your walk short and sweet or you can delve deeper into the forest too , free parking available."
KS Raja
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Soudley Ponds are located in the Forest of Dean. The most convenient parking is at the Dean Heritage Centre, which is just a short walk across to the ponds. :car:
Yes, free parking is available at the Dean Heritage Centre, providing easy access to the walking trails around Soudley Ponds.
Information on public transport to Soudley Ponds is limited. Driving to the Dean Heritage Centre is the most common and recommended method. :bus:
The Gloucestershire Walks App is recommended for navigating the various trails around Soudley Ponds and the wider Forest of Dean. :iphone:
While cycling is popular in the Forest of Dean, the immediate paths around Soudley Ponds are primarily for walking. Dedicated cycling trails are available elsewhere in the forest. :mountain_bicyclist:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Soudley Ponds and the surrounding walking trails is free. Parking at the Dean Heritage Centre is also free. :moneywithwings:
Soudley Ponds is an outdoor natural area and is accessible at all times. The Dean Heritage Centre has its own operating hours. :clock1:
The walking trails around Soudley Ponds are free to access for everyone. Enjoy the natural beauty without any cost. :gift:
The lakes at Soudley Ponds are private fishing spots. While you can observe fish feeding, fishing is not permitted for the general public. :fishingpoleand_வத:
The Dean Heritage Centre has specific opening hours, which can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check their website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. :information_desk:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy peaceful walks around the ponds, explore woodland trails, spot wildlife like deer and birds, and visit the nearby Dean Heritage Centre. :camerawithflash:
A leisurely walk around the main pond area can take about an hour, but you can easily spend 2-3 hours exploring deeper into the woods. :stopwatch:
Toilets are available at the Dean Heritage Centre. There are no public facilities directly at the ponds themselves. :toilet:
Yes, Soudley Ponds is great for families. The relatively short circular walk is manageable for kids, and the natural environment offers plenty to discover. :child:
Dogs are welcome at Soudley Ponds, but they must be kept on a lead at all times to protect the local wildlife and ensure a peaceful experience for all visitors. :dog2:
📸 📸 Photography
Capture reflections in the ponds, the lush woodland scenery, and any wildlife you encounter. The 'witches tree' is also a unique subject. :camera:
Drone usage regulations can vary. While some videos show drone footage,
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful soft light for photography, especially during autumn when the foliage is vibrant. :sunrise:
The tranquil ponds themselves, the charming bridges, and the 'witches tree' are popular subjects for photographers.
You might spot wild deer, various bird species (including Mandarin ducks), and insects. Patience is key for wildlife photography. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The natural environment offers plenty of opportunities for kids to explore, discover wildlife, and enjoy the outdoors. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy by the water. The Dean Heritage Centre across the road offers a convenient spot for a coffee break and has a gift shop that might appeal to children. Remember to keep dogs on a lead to ensure the safety of both children and wildlife.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Bring a good pair of walking shoes and perhaps a bird identification app to enhance your experience. The Blaize Bailey viewpoint offers a rewarding challenge with stunning vistas, perfect for a solo hiker seeking a sense of accomplishment.
🐶 Dog Owners
Crucially, dogs must be kept on a lead at all times. This is to protect the abundant wildlife, including wild deer and birds, that inhabit the area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
For those seeking a more challenging hike, the trails extend into the denser parts of the Forest of Dean. These paths can be steeper and more uneven, offering a chance to explore deeper into the ancient woodland. Many visitors enjoy combining the pond walk with an ascent to the Blaize Bailey viewpoint, which rewards hikers with expansive views over the River Severn.
Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as paths can become muddy, especially after rain. The Gloucestershire Walks App is a useful tool for navigating these trails and discovering different routes.
Wildlife and Nature
The ponds themselves are private fishing lakes, and you can often observe fish feeding at various times of the day. The diverse flora and fauna create a vibrant ecosystem, with insects also being abundant.
+1While dogs are welcome, it's crucial they remain on a lead to minimize disturbance to the wildlife.
The Dean Heritage Centre
Beyond parking, the centre provides a pleasant place to grab a coffee and a light bite after your walk. It also features a cute gift shop where you can find local crafts and souvenirs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit