Lydney

Gateway to the Forest of Dean

Discover Lydney

Welcome to Lydney - the gateway to the Forest of Dean.

Located on the edge of the River Severn, surrounded by rolling countryside and woodland, Lydney is a historic market town packed with charm, character, and plenty of things to do.

This lively little town is the ideal base for exploring the wider Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, while also offering its own attractions, shops, eateries, and stunning riverside walks to enjoy.

A Historic Riverside Town

Situated on the banks of the River Severn, Lydney has a rich history dating back to Roman times. The town grew during the industrial revolution, with its harbour playing a key role in transporting coal and iron from the Forest of Dean across the country. Today, Lydney’s heritage is still visible through its historic docks, town centre landmarks, and nearby archaeological sites.

At the heart of the town, you'll find a range of independent shops, cafés, and traditional pubs, offering a warm welcome to visitors.

Things to See and Do in Lydney

  • Lydney Harbour: Take a stroll along the historic Lydney Harbour and enjoy sweeping views across the Severn Estuary. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for birdwatching, walking, or just sitting and watching the ever-changing tides - the Severn has the second highest tidal range in the world! Don't forget a pit stop at Hips Harbourside for a drink and bite to eat.
  • Dean Forest Railway: Step back in time on the Dean Forest Railway. This heritage railway runs through beautiful woodland between Lydney and Parkend, offering a glimpse into the area's industrial past and a fantastic day out for all ages.
  • Lydney Park Estate and Roman Temple: Visit one of the Forest's hidden gems. The estate is home to stunning gardens and the remains of a Roman temple complex, showcasing Lydney's ancient roots.
  • Rachel Shilston - Inspiring Creativity: Get crafty with a hands on experience. From Crafternoon tea to mosaic workshops - theres fun for the whole family.
  • Bathurst Park: Right in the centre of town, Bathurst Park is a beautifully maintained green space, ideal for a relaxing afternoon. There are open lawns, flowerbeds, a playground for the kids, and plenty of space for a picnic.
  • Shopping and Eating: Lydney’s town centre has a mix of independent shops, cafés, pubs, and restaurants to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for local produce, a delicious lunch, or a friendly coffee stop, you’ll find a warm welcome here. Don't miss Taurus Crafts for great independent shops and activities.
  • Severn Estuary Views: Take a stroll or cycle along the Severn Way and enjoy panoramic views of one of the UK's most dynamic tidal landscapes.

Events and Local Life

Lydney regularly hosts farmers’ markets, music events, and local festivals that celebrate the town’s strong community spirit. Its location makes it a great base for exploring the wider Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, offering easy access to nature reserves, cycle trails, and historic sites.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you're looking for scenic walks, historic landmarks, or a relaxing day by the water, Lydney is a perfect stop on your Forest of Dean and Wye Valley adventure. Discover the best of countryside and coast, all from one welcoming town.

Businesses related to Lydney

Lydney Park Spring Gardens Roman Temple Site showing a waterfall and beautiful flowers in bloom
Families | Dogs | Groups | History | Nature | Relaxation

Lydney Park Spring Gardens - Roman Temple Site

Fine formal gardens open every spring April-June only and for groups. Beautiful rhododendron and…

DSC 0491 1731793288
Business Directory

Taurus Crafts Cafe

The Taurus Crafts café serves delicious breakfasts, light bites and chef’s special which are made…

INTERIOR 796398201

Relax, learn a new skill and create a memory of your stay in the Forest of Dean to treasure…

A 163602629

Fun, photographic training, group guiding, photography mindfulness sessions and Photo holidays in…

IMG 3109 1537837781
Groups | Arts | Accessible | Families

Taurus Crafts

A vibrant visitor centre where you can see a wide range of arts and crafts, enjoy local food &…

David Broadbent 2106310212
Arts | Nature | Groups

David Broadbent Photography

David Broadbent Photography produces cutting edge and on trend work in stills, video, drone and…

Vdw whitemead adventuregolf 12 564238249
Families | Groups | Adventure

Adventure golf at Whitemead Forest Park

Enjoy a round of woodland themed adventure golf at Whitemead Forest Park. Made up of 12 holes,…

The Chocolate Bar Organic Chocolates
Foodies | Families | Accessible | Groups

The Chocolate Bar

We are a small artisan Chocolate Business based in the Forest of Dean. We use local ingredients…

Danby Cottage

Prices from:
£100.00

Accessible | Families | Groups

Danby Cottage

Perfect hideaway set deep in the heart of the forest. Ideal for walks, cycling and relaxing…

Stay at Lydney Park Estate and Gardens. Lodge Barn - aerial view of the generous outdoor space, quiet rural location and spacious accommodation at Lodge Barn.
Families | Groups | Nature

Stay at Lydney Park Estate

Lydney Park Estate has five wonderful holiday homes available to rent in a beautiful location in…

Way2 Go Adventures canoe with a dog
Adventure | Groups | Dogs | Families

Way2Go Adventures Ltd

Way2Go Adventures is a family-run business, based in the Forest of Dean offering exciting outdoor…

Resilient Woodlands Retreat Woodsmans Cabin

Woodsman cabin is one of two gorgeous, sustainably-built log cabins at Resilient Woodlands Retreat.…

Nuthatch Retreat Living Room Double aspect
Families | Accessible

Nuthatch Retreat

A stylish eco-retreat offering laid-back luxury - expansive valley views, terraced gardens, EV…

48408913 2411556632219811 154743690240196608 o 1561118384
Families | Adventure | Groups | History

Dean Forest Railway

Journey through the medieval Forest of Dean from Lydney to Parkend on a steam train or heritage…

CAA94 D61 BABB398 AB340 D35 D1 DBE4 D8 EB1 FA7300

With the Forest Of Dean on the doorstep, we are happy to arrange activities for our guests & hot…

Far Open Forest and Rivers Open Studios Main image

Visit artists in their workshops and galleries during the annual Open Studios Event in the Forest…

Events awarded Lydney

Select a Timeframe:

Date From:

Date To:

B0006265

Dates:
23rd May 2025 - 31st Aug 2025

A subterranean sculpture show like no other – 60 world-class artists explore colour beneath the…

Experiences Awarded Lydney

CAVING

Prices from:
£35.00

Adventure | Families | Groups | Nature | History

Adventure Caving

It's not your average day out. Are you ready to go beyond the tourist trail?

Itineraries Awarded Lydney

Nature in Art 1 792263698
Dogs | Families | Groups | Arts | History

An arty long weekend in the Forest of Dean & Wye…

Duration: 4 Days 3 Nights

Lydney Harbour Landmark Stones
Dogs | Families | Groups | Arts | History

An arty mid week break in the Forest of Dean &…

Duration: 5 Days 4 Nights

Trails In Lydney

Monmouth Tourist Information Centre
Dogs | Families | History | Accessible

Market Towns Trail

Explore the character, charm and community spirit of the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley’s market…

Our latest Lydney blogs

Stay up to date

Be the first to hear about our exciting events, offers, inspiration and competitions by signing up.