Star Wars filming location: Enchanting UK forest revealed
Nestled in the picturesque Forest of Dean, Puzzlewood in Coleford, UK, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and film buffs alike. Known for its striking views over the Wye Valley and as a popular filming location, Puzzlewood offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
This enchanting forest trail spans just over a mile and a half, making it manageable for most visitors. The path winds through the woods, revealing footbridges, stone steps, and unexpected lookouts that offer sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
Puzzlewood's unique character is a result of ancient Roman iron ore mining and nature's gradual reclamation, creating a landscape that swells and sinks like an old cloak. It is widely believed that J.R.R. Tolkien was inspired by Puzzlewood while creating the fictional forests of Middle-earth.
For those seeking a nostalgic train journey, the Dean Forest Railway offers a beautiful countryside ride. Perrygrove Railway, a heritage steam line, is another nearby attraction popular with families.
Puzzlewood has been the backdrop for several well-known film and television productions. In Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015), Puzzlewood was used to depict the alien planet Takodana, where the character Rey first encounters the whisper of the Force. The forest's unique and ancient atmosphere also inspired fantasy settings and is believed to have influenced Tolkien's depiction of Middle-earth forests.
Other notable productions filmed at Puzzlewood include Doctor Who, Merlin, Atlantis, Jack the Giant Slayer, The Huntsman: Winter’s War, The Secret Garden, and Netflix’s series Cursed.
Outside the forest paths, visitors can find a small petting farm, picnic area, cafe, and gift shop. It is recommended to book entry tickets online, especially during weekends and school holidays.
The best time to visit Puzzlewood is during weekdays or early on weekend mornings, and autumn is especially striking with the ground carpeted in fiery leaves and golden light filtering through the trees. Puzzlewood transforms with the seasons, offering distinct tones and landscapes in spring, summer, autumn, and winter.
For Indian citizens planning to travel to the UK for tourism, a Standard Visitor visa is required. This visa permits travel for tourism, certain business activities, and short-term study, typically for a stay of up to six months. The application process is completed online through the official UK government website.
Clearwell Caves, a fascinating network of ancient iron mines, provide an atmospheric journey into the region's industrial past. The Forest of Dean offers endless opportunities for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting across its vast woodland landscape.
So, pack your bags and prepare for an adventure in the mystical world of Puzzlewood!
A visit to Puzzlewood's enchanting forest trail allows one to immerse oneself in a unique home-and-garden setting, which serves as a testament to ancient Roman iron ore mining by nature. To further compliment one's home-and-garden lifestyle experience, traveling to Puzzlewood in Coleford, UK, provides an opportunity to explore its picturesque surroundings by train, as offered by the Dean Forest Railway and Perrygrove Railway.
