All the fun of the forest

Finding something to do in that cold, wet and pretty depressing time before spring finally arrives, can be tricky, especially if you have children.

But it could be the chance to take a look at some attractions you might never have thought of, or indeed, heard of. And there's even a chance for the kids to bring those computer games, which keep them locked up in their bedrooms for hours on end, to life!

The Forest of Dean is a beautiful spot at any time of the year, with plenty of outdoor activities, including walks, trekking, water sports, historic sites, and lots of pubs and restaurants.

But there are also many land- owners and farmers who have diversified, and now offer a host of interesting new ventures.

At Holly Bush Farm in Longhope, Liz Davis is offering "battlesports" which brings to life five of the best computer games. She describes it as the "safe and pain-free" way to do battle, for combatants aged six upwards.

There's a five-acre battlefield and an indoor urban village to visit where you will be "armed" with the latest weapons which use infra-red technology instead of bullets.

The centre is open all year round, from Monday to Saturday, and is ideal for both adult and children's parties. For details, call Liz on 01452 830366.

Meanwhile, on the beautiful and peaceful river Wye, there's a chance to paddle your own canoe and experience some expert tuition in handling one.

And after a day of fun, you then spend the night in a tepee kitted out with many mod-cons. The Tipi Adventure is outdoor fun for all the family, and details can be found by calling 01594 861666.

The Forest of Dean's traffic-free bridle ways, forest roads and riding trails are a must for horse riders of all abilities. The tourist office can even provide details of seven routes to take, places to see on the way, and a useful map to ensure you don't get lost – although the horses usually know the quickest way home.

For details on the various riding centres, call the Information Office on 01594 812384.

The Dean Outdoors Festival is a chance to sample the activities available in the area, and meet some of the expert instructors.

It takes place from Saturday, April 25, to Sunday, May 3. Visit www.active.visitforestofdean.co.uk

Other events taking place during March are the Kempley Daffodil Weekend at Kempley Village Hall on March 21 and 22 (01531 822468), and a Mothers' Day family buffet at the Forest of Dean Model Village on March 22 (01594 845244).

And don't miss the Coleford Festival of Transport kicking off in Coleford town centre on April 13, and a unique fashion display, featuring clothes from 1914 to 1937, being staged at the Dean Heritage Centre on April 13 (call 01594 822170).