2026 Parkend Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in September)

A 12 km/7.5 mile walk with my local rambling group in the autumn of 2024. The changing colour of the trees in the fall is a joy to behold. Popular with mountain bikers, trail runners and hikers this walk takes you through both deciduous and evergreen woodland. You will also pass Parkend railway station part of the Dean Forest Heritage Railway. Recommended reading.'Ode to Autumn' by John Keats🍁We no longer use the word fall in UK English but it is aptly named to describe the falling of the leaves from the trees. More commonly used in US English.

Enjoy a day out on this family friendly steam railway. The current railway line is approximately 4 1/2 miles long, running from Lydney Junction Station (close to the mainline railway station and a short walk from the harbour) at the south end of the line to Parkend (a small forest village) at the north end of the line. This heritage railway offers a pleasant experience for those interested in steam trains. Run by a dedicated team of volunteers they offer a friendly and enthusiastic approach and can answer any questions the visitor may have about the railway. 🏖️Ambiance/Facilities: The boarding process is okay if you are fit and able bodied but accessibility and facilities on the train could be improved. The museum at Norchard is particularly well-regarded for its collection of railway artifacts, and the shop is well-stocked. Tea room provides a range of hot and cold snacks. Grab a cuppa before you board the train 🚂

Fun in the Forest of Dean