Step aboard a heritage diesel locomotive for a 90-minute journey through the Forest of Dean’s rich woodland and history. Dean Forest Railway offers a charming, accessible trip perfect for all ages seeking a unique outdoor experience.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical effort required other than boarding and brief platform stops.
Wildlife
History
Dean Forest Railway traces routes once vital to the region’s timber and coal industries, preserving rolling stock and stations dating back to the early 20th century.
Conservation
The railway balances heritage preservation with environmental stewardship, maintaining forest habitats while providing low-impact access to natural areas.
Dean Forest Railway
Step aboard a heritage diesel locomotive for a 90-minute journey through the Forest of Dean’s rich woodland and history. Dean Forest Railway offers a charming, accessible trip perfect for all ages seeking a unique outdoor experience.
Dean Forest Railway is a heritage railway based in Lydney, England, operating preserved steam and diesel trains on a scenic branch line through the Forest of Dean. The railway offers a diverse range of passenger experiences and special events, including driving experiences, dinner trains, gala events, seasonal Santa Specials and short family-friendly rides.
Visitors can choose experiences such as the Diesel Driving Experience, Silver Steam Footplate Driving Experience, First Class Steam Train Ride in the Hawksworth Inspection Saloon, Evening Steam Train Fish & Chip Supper, Murder Mystery evenings, Steam Day Rover tickets, and themed events like the Diesel Gala and Royal Forest of Steam Gala. Shorter options include the Forest Flyer 200 and heritage diesel railcar rides, while on-board services are available by pre-order such as the On Train Drinks Order and pre-bookable snacks.
The railway operates scheduled public services and special event timetables over weekends and event dates, with ticketing available in advance. Trains run between Norchard, Lydney Junction and Parkend, providing scenic travel and access to heritage displays and station facilities.
As a well-established heritage attraction in the Forest of Dean, Dean Forest Railway maintains a preserved fleet and a programme of public events designed to appeal to families, enthusiasts and visitors seeking unique rail experiences. Clear event descriptions, advance booking for many experiences, and a regular public timetable make it straightforward for guests to plan visits and enjoy authentic steam and diesel train journeys. Online ticketing options and clear visitor information help simplify trip planning before arrival.
Base Location
Lydney, England
Located in the Forest of Dean
Tours Offered
18 experiences
Driving, dining, galas and family rides
Key Stations
Norchard • Lydney Junction • Parkend
Scenic stops on the branch line
Booking
Advance booking
Many experiences require pre-booking
Book tickets for driving experiences, dining trains, galas and Santa Specials — spaces often fill fast.
Book Tickets in Advance
Seats can fill quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so reserve your spot early for the preferred departure time.
Arrive Early for Refreshments
The café opens 30 minutes before departure, offering cream teas and snacks to enjoy before boarding or during breaks.
Bring Weather-Appropriate Clothing
While the train compartments offer shelter, platform stops can be chilly or wet; pack a layer or rain gear as needed.
Accessibility Considerations
Stations and trains accommodate passengers with mobility needs, but notify staff ahead for any special arrangements.
Layered Clothing
Provides comfort in changing temperatures during the trip and stops.
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Waterproof Jacket
Protects against rain and wind on platforms and outdoor areas.
spring|fall|winter
Camera or Smartphone
Capture scenic forest views and vintage locomotive details along the route.
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Comfortable Footwear
Necessary for walking on station platforms and uneven ground during stops.
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