Saddle up and ride out!
In partnership with the Forestry Commission, the Forest of Dean District Council are issuing packs of six route cards for riders.
The trails vary between four and 12.45 kilometres in length, and cover some of the most outstandingly beautiful places in the Forest. These include Symonds Yat, Yorkley Woods, Blaize Bailey, Dymock Forest, Gorsley and Staple Edge Woods.
The packs also contain a booklet with essential contact numbers for vets, saddlers, livery merchants, food and tack shops and places to stay the night. The council hope that the packs, which cost £2.99, will make it easier for riders and carriage drivers to visit the Forest.
Councillor Patrick Molyneux, the cabinet member responsible for Economic Regeneration, said: "We hope this guide will encourage more people to visit the Forest of Dean and enjoy the facilities of the area whilst knowing we have first class businesses to cater for all their equestrian needs."
The Forestry Commission also want to encourage riders to treat the Forest with respect.
"Please ensure that you stick to hard stone tracks to avoid damage to soft paths and verges," said Judith Lack, Recreation Manager.
"We welcome responsible riding in the Forest. All carriage drivers in the Forest of Dean need to have a license from the Forestry Commission, available from Bank House, Bank Street, Coleford."
For more information or to buy a pack, contact the Forestry Commission on 01594 833057.
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