
Dean Forest Railway
Ride heritage steam and diesel trains through the scenic Forest of Dean, with special events and unique driving experiences.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Trains run more frequently

Dean Forest Railway
Best Time
Trains run more frequently

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride heritage steam and diesel trains through the scenic Forest of Dean, with special events and unique driving experiences.
"Absolutely amazing day at this little treasure of a railway."

🎯 Book Tickets Online
Especially for popular events like Christmas trains, booking ahead is crucial to guarantee your spot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You might do some walking at stations or exploring the Forest of Dean.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Steam & Diesel Locomotive Rides
Various stations along the line
Experience the thrill of heritage steam and diesel locomotives chugging through the scenic Forest of Dean.

Norchard Station
Norchard
The main hub with authentic buildings, a museum, and a cafe. A great starting point for your railway adventure.

Lydney Harbour Views
Lydney
Explore the local area and enjoy views of the Severn estuary from Lydney Harbour, accessible from the railway.

Murder Mystery Evenings
Various stations
Unique themed evenings offering a fun and interactive experience with a touch of intrigue.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Events
Embrace the Nostalgia
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Especially for popular events like Christmas trains, booking ahead is crucial to guarantee your spot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You might do some walking at stations or exploring the Forest of Dean.
📸 Capture the Moment
Great photo opportunities with steam and diesel engines, especially during events.
☕ Enjoy Station Refreshments
Cafes at stations offer a welcome break with drinks and snacks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Especially for popular events like Christmas trains, booking ahead is crucial to guarantee your spot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You might do some walking at stations or exploring the Forest of Dean.
📸 Capture the Moment
Great photo opportunities with steam and diesel engines, especially during events.
☕ Enjoy Station Refreshments
Cafes at stations offer a welcome break with drinks and snacks.
⏳ Allow Extra Time
Trains switch ends, leading to waiting periods. Enjoy the atmosphere or explore.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Dean Forest Railway for its nostalgic charm, friendly and knowledgeable volunteers, and well-maintained heritage locomotives. The driving experiences are a standout highlight, offering an unforgettable adventure. While the journey is relatively short and turnarounds can take time, the overall experience is highly recommended for a pleasant and engaging day out.
"Absolutely amazing day at this little treasure of a railway. Booked a diesel driving experience for our son and was not disappointed. Arrived early and was given a really informative tour by Rob who was really passionate about the railway and that really showed. Then we moved into the driving. The two Adam’s who were teaching were fantastic, our son jumped straight into the cab and was driving within a few minutes. A quick 10 minute run before a short wait before driving the whole length of the track for about 20-30 mins. The Adam’s answered all his questions and gave us lots of information about the train and the route and made us feel really welcome. Doug looked after us in the brake van and explained what was happening every step of the way. It was an amazing day out and well worth it!! Will definitely look at doing again"
Mark Eaton
"Had a nice afternoon here. Everyone was very friendly and the trains were running but with a delay to a broken down engine so we joined a returning trip. We arrived on the off chance and managed to get a ticket but I suggest booking online. The journey is a relatively short one and the turn around time at each end of the line was lengthy. A quick stop at the cafe for refreshments was welcome.
Great afternoon for the kids to see some trains. It's run by volunteers and the communication left a lot to be desired at times. It you are not in a hurry then hop on board and relive some nostalgia."
Ian Waller
"We booked a cream tea in First Class from Norchard station. It was very well organised. You had to collect your food and drink from the cafe to take with you on the train. The 3 of us has armchairs right at the front/end of the train. Definitely something I would recommend."
Mari-J
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Dean Forest Railway is located in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire. The main access point is via Lydney. You can reach Lydney by car via the A48. For public transport, Lydney has a train station served by Great Western Railway.
Yes, there is parking available at the main stations, particularly at Norchard. It's advisable to check the railway's official website for specific parking details for different events.
Lydney, where the railway is based, has a train station. From Lydney station, you can often walk or take a short taxi ride to the nearest railway access point.
The Dean Forest Railway operates a scenic route through the Forest of Dean, typically running between Lydney and Parkend, with stations at Norchard and other points.
Accessibility can vary. It's best to contact the Dean Forest Railway directly to inquire about specific accessibility arrangements for carriages and stations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary depending on the type of service (e.g., standard train ride, special event). It's recommended to check the official Dean Forest Railway website for the most up-to-date ticket prices and booking information.
While you might be able to purchase tickets on the day, booking online in advance is strongly advised, especially for popular events like the Santa Train or Diesel Galas, as they can sell out.
Opening hours and operating days vary seasonally and are dependent on scheduled services and events. Always check the official Dean Forest Railway website for their current timetable before visiting.
Discounts may be available for groups, families, or specific membership schemes. Information on potential discounts is usually found on their website or by contacting them directly.
A standard ticket typically includes a return journey on the heritage railway. Special events or experiences, like driving experiences or dining trains, will have separate ticketing and costs.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy scenic rides on steam and diesel trains, explore heritage stations like Norchard, visit the museum, and sometimes participate in special events like Diesel Galas or Christmas trains.
Yes, the railway hosts various events throughout the year, including the popular Dean Forest Railway Christmas and Santa Train, Diesel Galas, and themed evenings like murder mysteries.
The journey itself is relatively short, but the overall experience can take a few hours, especially considering the time taken for the train to switch ends and any stops.
The Dean Forest Railway offers 'Diesel Driving Experiences' where you can learn to drive a locomotive under expert supervision. These are popular and require advance booking.
Key stations include Norchard (the main hub), Lydney Junction, and Parkend. Each station offers a unique perspective and access to local attractions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are cafes at some stations, such as Norchard, offering refreshments, snacks, and light meals. They also sometimes host special dining trains, like fish and chips evenings.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally acceptable to bring your own snacks for personal consumption, especially if you have dietary needs. However, purchasing from the cafe supports the railway.
Occasionally, the railway offers special dining experiences, such as fish and chips evenings or other themed meals, which are usually part of specific event packages.
📸 📸 Photography
Norchard station offers great opportunities with its heritage buildings and locomotives. The scenic route through the Forest of Dean also provides beautiful backdrops for train photography.
Absolutely! The railway is a haven for train enthusiasts and photographers. You can capture steam and diesel locomotives in action, especially during events.
While not always advertised as dedicated 'photography events,' Diesel Galas and other special operating days provide excellent opportunities for capturing unique shots of various locomotives.
You can photograph a variety of heritage steam locomotives, such as GWR Panniers, and diesel locomotives, including Class 09 and Class 50, depending on the operating days and events.
While you can get close at stations, always maintain a safe distance when trains are in motion. Volunteers are usually on hand to advise on safe viewing and photography spots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Book tickets in advance, especially for events. Pack snacks and drinks, though cafes are available. Allow plenty of time for the train to switch ends, giving kids a chance to stretch their legs and explore the stations. The driving experiences, while perhaps for older children or adults, are also a unique draw.
🚂 Train Enthusiasts & Photographers
Photography opportunities are abundant. Norchard station provides a classic backdrop, and the scenic route offers picturesque shots. Be sure to check the timetable and event schedules to maximize your chances of capturing specific locomotives in action. The volunteers are often happy to share insights, enhancing the experience.
💑 Couples & Nostalgia Seekers
Consider booking a special dining train for a romantic meal with a view, or simply enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the heritage stations and soaking in the atmosphere. It's a perfect way to create lasting memories together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heritage Experience
Key attractions include the chance to see and ride behind various locomotives, including Great Western Railway steam engines and classic diesel models. The railway also boasts a small museum at Norchard, offering a glimpse into the area's railway history. The journey itself winds through the picturesque Forest of Dean, offering lovely countryside views.
Community involvement is a cornerstone of the Dean Forest Railway. The dedication of the volunteers shines through in the upkeep of the rolling stock and infrastructure. This hands-on approach ensures a genuine heritage railway experience that resonates with visitors seeking a connection to the past.
Special Events and Dining
Beyond the festive season, the railway hosts Diesel Galas, showcasing a variety of diesel locomotives, which are a treat for enthusiasts. They also organize unique Murder Mystery Evenings, providing an interactive and entertaining night out with a theatrical twist.
For a more relaxed experience, the railway sometimes offers dining trains, such as fish and chips evenings. These provide an opportunity to enjoy a meal while taking in the scenic surroundings from the comfort of a vintage carriage. Always check the official website for the latest event schedule and booking details.
Driving Experiences
These experiences typically involve a safety briefing, an introduction to the locomotive's controls, and then the chance to drive the train along a section of the line. The instructors are knowledgeable and passionate, ensuring a safe and thrilling experience. Participants often describe it as an 'amazing day out' and 'well worth it.'
Due to the specialized nature and high demand for these driving experiences, advance booking is absolutely essential. They are a fantastic gift idea or a special treat for anyone with a passion for trains.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit