The Story of The Forest

The Forest of Dean from earliest times to the present day

Did you know that, over time, the Forest of Dean has been:

Home to wolves and bears

Invaded by Romans

The main source of Britain’s iron

A place without towns and villages

Hunted in by kings

Nearly empty of woodland

The scene of battles and riots

Protected to make ships for the Royal Navy

Full of noise, smoking chimneys and children working in deep, dark mines


Here is the rich and startling story of ‘The Vurrest’, complete with cave lions, buried treasure, forts, castles, secret factories, tunnels, prisoners of war and Harry Potter.

For children, teachers, Foresters, and everyone interested in the history of this special place.