The Forest of Dean is already a magnet for visitors searching for rural tranquility but a new breed of tourists is set to flock there following the launch of a new Film and TV Trail.

As Star Wars mania reaches fever pitch, the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Tourism Association launched an online Film and TV Trail on Wednesday, December 16th. It will put the area on the global stage and bring together dozens of locations used in small and big screen productions.

The site, visitdeanwyefilm.co.uk showcases the vital role the destination plays in major film and TV productions such as: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, which featured Coppett Hill; Doctor Who filmed at Clearwell Caves; and Star Wars VII: The Force Awakens, shot at Puzzlewood.

Created by Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Tourism, the site is the start of a major push to attract screen tourists and boost visitor revenue by £35 million over three years.

Mark Terry-Lush, director of Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Tourism, said, “Film makers flock to our natural stage because of amazing attractions, stunning scenery and welcoming hospitality. The economic impact of screen tourism is growing and will bring a welcome boost to the local economy. “Tourism is currently worth around £300 million across the area and our figures forecast a growth to £335 million in three years and potentially £357 million in five years.

“Outside of London the value of screen tourism is £140 million a year and the best-performing areas generate up to £4.3 million annually. The Film and TV Trail is a key part of how we tell the rich story of this area and attract visitors from across the globe who want to follow in the footsteps of their on-screen heroes.”

The new website enables visitors to download trails, plot their own path and discover the woodlands, historic sites, caves and glades graced by their favourite characters.

Jonathan Wright, owner of Clearwell Caves, which has hosted productions such as Doctor Who, Atlantis and Merlin, added, “We’ve long been proud of the breadth of films and TV shows filmed here and we’re well aware of the huge international community of fans who would love to follow in the footsteps of their screen idols.”

The website, in addition to highlighting locations that have hosted productions, provides information on accommodation, food and drink and additional attractions to provide tourists with everything they need to plan and enjoy a longer stay.

Mark Terry-Lush added, “Our success in attracting major productions has a major effect on local businesses as the cast and crew rely on accommodation, transport, food and drink and so much more. Our hospitality and willingness to support them means they become great ambassadors for the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean as they spread the word far and wide.”

Jonathan continues, “With this website, the millions of fans of these blockbusters will be able to discover our part in making screen magic. We look forward to welcoming them to Clearwell Caves and the wider region, which will have a really positive impact on our local economy.”

To promote the launch of the website, the tourism association embarked on a series of stunts including Stormtroopers surfing the Severn Bore (27th November) and Darth Vader commandeering the SARA Lifeboat and sailing up the River Severn.