The otherworldly UK forest that features in Star Wars blockbusters – and how to get it all to yourself
A POPULAR woodland filming location in the UK has been described as "magical" "otherworldly" and "enchanting" by those who have visited.
Despite this, it's entirely possible to have the whole place to yourself, as long as you know the best time to visit.
The Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire is a former royal forest, dating back to before the Norman Conquest in 1066.
However, it's more recently become known as a popular tourist hotspot, especially for movie buffs looking to find some of their favourite filming locations.
Among them is Puzzlewood, a part of the forest known for its twisted trees, rickety bridges and more than a mile of winding pathways.
Perhaps most famously, it was used as a location for the filming of Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
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In the film, characters Rey (Daisy Ridley) and Finn (John Boyega) enter the forest, which was used for planet Takodana.
Rey is then has to go head-to-head against enemy Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) in a lightsaber battle among the trees.
According to Visit Dean Wye, Kathleen Kennedy, Star Wars producer and president of Lucasfilm described it as: "The most magical forest on the face of the earth."
The forest's film career also includes starring roles in Doctor Who, Merlin and The Huntsman among others.
Someone else who was impressed with the forest was Tiktoker Weekend Candy (@weekendcandy), who shared footage from her trip to Puzzlewood with her followers.
In her video, she revealed how to get the filming location all to yourself.
She said: "This ancient wood is Puzzlewood in the beautiful Forest of Dean. Star Wars: The Force Awakens was filmed here.
"Explore its twists and turns on a weekend visit.
"But go early in the morning to get it to yourself. It's worth it."
Most people agreed with her that it was a beautiful place, with several referring to it as "magical".
One wrote: "One of the most magical places I’ve ever seen."
Another said: "This is such a wonderful place."
A third added: "Very atmospheric."
It's not just film buffs who visit the woods, with kids also frequent visitors.
The forest's website describes itself as "an otherworldly woodland" and claims: "Whether your kids are toddlers or teens, every age loves to explore the woods and let their imaginations run wild."
There are trails and objects to follow for youngsters exploring the woods, while it's also a popular place to spot nature.
Badgers, deer, foxes, rabbits and a variety of bats can be found in the surrounding woodland, along with several species of bird.
From more than 1,500 reviews on TripAdvisor, the woods have a total score of 4/5, with hundreds of people giving it the full five stars.
One wrote: "No trip to the area would be complete without a trip to this mystical and magical place. Totally unspoilt. Don’t forget to take a camera."
Meanwhile, Batman was filmed at this cave in Wales.
And these are the Disney film locations you can visit throughout the UK.