The Coleford Carnival of Transport 2026 is set to be a milestone event, marking the 27th year of this beloved Forest of Dean tradition. Scheduled for Monday, April 6, 2026, the carnival transforms the town centre into a sprawling museum of mechanical history. Visitors can expect to see over 500 exhibits, ranging from century-old steam engines and vintage motorbikes to classic cars, military vehicles, and impressive lorries. Beyond the vehicles, the day offers a full festival atmosphere with model railway exhibitions, craft stalls, an autojumble for enthusiasts, and a variety of local food and drink stands.
What makes the 2026 event particularly special is the partnership with Lydney Dial-a-Ride as the chosen charity. This collaboration highlights a beautiful synergy between the celebration of transport history and the practical, modern-day necessity of accessible travel. For over 30 years, Lydney Dial-a-Ride has served as a lifeline for the community, providing door-to-door transport for the elderly, the disabled, and those living in rural areas who lack access to public transit. By choosing them as the primary charity, the carnival is directly supporting a service that ensures no one in the Forest of Dean is left isolated or immobile.
During the carnival, funds raised will help Lydney Dial-a-Ride maintain their fleet of fully accessible minibuses and support their volunteer car scheme. These services are vital for residents attending medical appointments, visiting shops, or simply staying connected with their community—the very essence of what transport is meant to achieve. Whether you are there to admire a gleaming 1950s Jaguar or a massive traction engine, your presence helps fuel a service that provides independence and dignity to hundreds of local people every week.
Coleford Carnival of Transport