ABOUT LYDNEY

The thriving town of Lydney covers approximately eight square miles, and stands on the north bank of the UK's longest river, the Severn.There is also evidence that the surrounding area has been farmed since the Bronze Age. It has been suggested that the Saxons named the settlement 'Lydeney' possibly meaning either 'Travellers Island' or 'broad', referring to the River Severn.To the south, the tidal waters of the Severn, once home to the centre of travel and trade for the Coal of the forest, shipped from Lydney Docks.

There has been a settlement at Lydney ever since Roman times. It is thought that Lydney Park was a significant Roman settlement with a temple, bath house and guest house dating back to the 4th century, known as Dwarf's Hill.

Lydney is the home of the Dean Forest Railway.

WIth its famous Park Gardens and Forest Railway, it makes it a must for any visitor to the Royal Forest of Dean.

There is, however, much more to Lydney than the Dock. Its excellent transport links have ensured that it is a lively place to both live and work, with a very good range of shops, a leisure centre and sports facilities, as well as a thriving business sector. There are also over 30 pubs, cafes and restaurants, serving a wide variety of meals. Lydney Rugby Club is famous nationally, as well as locally, there is an open-air swimming pool and, of course, the town is surrounded by the Royal Forest of Dean, with its beautiful walks and cycle paths. It's even possible to view parts of Lydney and the Forest from the comfort of a seat in a restored steam train, courtesy of the Dean Forest Railway.

The Tourist Information point in Newerne Street, in the town centre, has much more information about the area.