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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.

During October we will have our Class 14 Teddy Bear D9521 hauling the brake van on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 11th October, and our 08 shunter ‘Gladys’ on Saturday 17th & Sunday 25th October.

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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