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Brake Van Special

The ultimate socially-distanced way to authentically experience the Dean Forest Railway

Quick Details

  • Duration: 1 hour 20 min.
  • Photography: Perfect for taking photos of the forest and usually unseen areas of the railway!
  • Location: Departs from (and returns to) Norchard Station (GL15 4ET). Includes a tour of the rarely visited loops and sidings at Lydney Junction.
  • Booking: Spaces are very limited, so booking is essential.
  • Max Passengers: Up to 6 people per booking of one veranda (two verandas available per trip).
  • Age Limit: Ages 12+ only
  • Dogs: Dogs are not allowed on this train.
  • COVID-19 Secure: Each booking will have their own private veranda on the brakevan.
Veranda behind the 08 loco 'Gladys' Up to 6 people
£40
Veranda behind the Class 14 loco D9521 Up to 6 people
£50

Join us for a special journey through the Forest in one of our restored brake vans, hauled by a heritage diesel locomotive, to experience the wind in your hair as you experience life as a goods guard back in the time when the Forest’s railways were a vital transport route for freight.

You and your party (up to 6 people) will have a veranda (one end of the brake van) to yourself for a round trip of our line. We’ll first head to Parkend, where you will be able to see the locomotive run round your train. Then, a non-stop run to Lydney Junction will be followed by some time exploring rarely-visited loops and sidings at Lydney, followed by a return to Norchard. The brake van will be thoroughly cleaned between trips for your safety. Unfortunately, this experience is unsuitable for under 12’s.

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