Mitcheldean, Ruardean & Drybrook

The Mitcheldean, Ruardean & Drybrook ward occupies the north-eastern corner of the Forest of Dean district. This area is characterised by a landscape of wooded hills and steep valleys, with settlements often built along ridges or nestled in the hollows. The communities here are historically linked to the forest's industrial past, including mining and ironworking. The local geography is defined by its position on the high ground between the River Wye and the Severn Vale.

A notable local landmark is the large former Rank Xerox factory on the edge of Mitcheldean, a prominent feature of the modern industrial landscape. The area contains extensive areas of woodland and common land, such as Ruardean Hill. These spaces are used for recreation and maintain a connection to the forest's traditional rights of common. The settlements, while separate, share services and facilities, functioning as a connected ward within the larger forest community.