Steam Train Journeys Through the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley
Written by
Les Snaith - 2nd June 2026Introduction
The Forest of Dean is one of those places that often surprises visitors. Nestled between Gloucestershire and the Welsh Borders, this beautiful region combines heritage railways, rolling countryside, historic market towns and one of Britain’s most scenic rivers.
Our five-day holiday offered the perfect blend of steam railway nostalgia, fascinating industrial heritage and stunning landscapes. For those interested in joining a future departure, details can be found on Railtrail’s Forest of Dean Steam & The Wye Valley tour. The itinerary includes three heritage railways, a cruise on the River Wye and visits to some of the area’s most attractive towns and villages.
Here is a look back at our journey.
Day 1 – Arrival in the Forest of Dean
Our guests travelled from across the country to join the tour, arriving at Lydney where our coach transferred us to the hotel.
For many, the journey itself had already provided plenty of railway interest. One of the highlights was seeing a refurbished Class 153 waiting at Gloucester before continuing onwards to Lydney.
The Forest of Dean immediately welcomes visitors with its peaceful woodland setting and rich railway heritage, making it the perfect base for the days ahead.
Day 2 – Steam in the Brecon Beacons
Our first excursion took us across the Welsh border to the attractive market town of Abergavenny.
Guests enjoyed time to explore the bustling indoor market, browse independent shops and admire the remains of Abergavenny Castle before continuing deeper into South Wales.
The highlight of the day awaited at the Brecon Mountain Railway. Running through the Brecon Beacons alongside Pontsticill Reservoir, the line offers some of the finest mountain scenery of any preserved railway in Britain.
Before boarding our train, there was plenty of interest in the yard, including two unusual locomotives awaiting transportation.
Our return journey to Torpantau was hauled by the railway’s impressive Baldwin locomotive, built in 1897.
Day 3 – Dean Forest Railway and the River Wye
Today’s adventure began at Norchard on the Dean Forest Railway.
Guests were given a guided tour of the workshops, locomotive yard and museum.
The afternoon offered a change of pace as we boarded the Lady Christine for a relaxing cruise along the River Wye. The river has attracted visitors for centuries and remains one of the defining features of the region.
Later, we visited Ross-on-Wye.
Day 4 – Steam, Broadway and Waterways
Our final full day packed in several memorable experiences.
The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway provided a wonderful steam-hauled journey through the Cotswolds.
Broadway proved to be a firm favourite.
Our final visit was to the National Waterways Museum.
Day 5 – Homeward Bound
As with all good holidays, the final day arrived far too quickly.
After breakfast we said farewell to our driver and the Forest of Dean before returning to Lydney station for our journeys home.
The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley once again delivered a wonderful combination of railway heritage, stunning scenery and fascinating history. From steam-hauled journeys and behind-the-scenes railway visits to peaceful river cruising and historic market towns, it proved to be a memorable few days in one of Britain’s most varied touring regions. Explore more Railtrail journeys on our UK rail holidays. Interested in tours we run in other parts of the country? Read our guide to the Isle of Man steam railway.