Nearest train station: Gloucester
Situated on the cusp on the Forest of Dean within the Wye Valley of Outstanding Natural Beauty lies the small Gloucestershire village of Lydbrook. The area features a great winding stretch of the River Wye which is perfect for a wild swim. From here, you can swim down the river to the popular village of Symonds Yat.
The area on the way to the river can get a bit rocky, so make sure you come equipped with a good pair of swimming shoes.
Arriving into the village of Lydbrook, head along the B4234 road to the Lower Lydbrook and Mill Row areas where you can park up on Stowfield Road (link in the above maps location).
From here, you’ll have easy access to the River Wye where you can swim west to Symonds Yat or northeast to Kerne Bridge as part of a lovely summer’s afternoon activity.
How to Get to the River Wye at Lower Lydbrook
We’ve provided detailed instructions on how to get to this west Gloucestershire spot by various means of transport below, as well as general travel information nearby.
By car
Enter the postcode GL17 9NJ into your sat nav, which will take you to the Stowfield Road Car Park at the top end of the village. From here, you can access to River Wye from the nearby banks.
By public transport
The rural part of west Gloucestershire is pretty tricky to get to if you don’t have a car, though there are ways. The nearest major train station is Gloucester, where you can catch the 22 bus to Coleford from the transport hub outside the station.
Get off at Forge Hill Turn stop (about an hour) in the heart of Lydbrook and walk up Forge Hill for about 20 minutes until you get to the River Wye.
By bike
The nearby Forest of Dean is a goldmine of off-road cycling trails within easy reach of Lydbrook. Follow the River Wye westward as it enters the forest by Symonds Yat and see what you can find in terms of wild swimming spots. Explore some great cycle routes here.
What else is nearby Lydbrook?
As we’ve alluded to already, the nearby Forest of Dean has plenty to do in terms of walks, cycle trails and general adventure.
This section of the River Wye is also great for wild swimming too. Walk (or indeed swim!) along the banks of the river from Lower Lydbrook towards the Welsh border and you’ll find plenty of opportunities for a dip.