THE Dean Forest Railway is running regular brake van rides this season, in addition to the usual steam service. Parties of up to six people will have a veranda (one end of a brake van) to themselves for a round trip of the line.
The diesel and two brake vans run non-stop from Norchard station to Lydney Junction, followed by a journey through the forest to Parkend. There, passengers can see the loco run round before returning to Norchard to complete the 1hr 20min journey. The verandas are cleaned between trips. Unfortunately, this experience is unsuitable for under-12s or dogs.