North Yorkshire Moors Railway, UK
Take a trip back in time on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, one of Britain’s most scenic railway routes. The train covers 24 miles through some of North Yorkshire’s most amazing scenery, with guests travelling behind heritage steam locomotives in historic carriages. Everything about this trip evokes nostalgia, from the grandeur of the its Pullman carriages and thrill of being pulled by a steam locomotive, to the quaint station shops and afternoon teas served on board – not to mention the unspoiled countryside. Disembark for a seafood lunch in Whitby or combine with a stay in a railway camping coach, where up to five guests can stay on board a train.
Prices from: £35
Departing from: Pickering, Whitby
Journey length: 1 hour, 50 mins
North Yorkshire Moors Railway route
The route runs from the ancient market town of Pickering to Whitby on the Yorkshire coast (famous for its delicious seafood). The whole journey takes around 1 hour, 50mins and covers 23 miles, making five stops in total along the route. After Pickering the train pulls in Lewisham station, surrounded by the beautiful Yorkshire Moors, followed by Newtondale, a NYMR-only station nestled deep within the national park.
The charming village station of Goathland comes next (famous for playing Hogsmeade Station in Harry Potter) and then Grosmont, home to the NYMR operating and engineering sheds. Finally, the train pulls into coastal Whitby overlooked by the ruins on Whitby Abbey. The train runs throughout the day every day from April till October with off-peak and on-peak days. It also runs one day in November and over Christmas. The journey is also available in reverse.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway trains
All NYMR trains ploughing this route are historical, dating from 1890 all the way to 1962 and rescued from former railway companies. The railway is one of only a handful of heritage railways which can operate a genuine Pullman train with the famous Umber & Cream livery. NYMR’s Pullman carriages boast polished teak interiors and have been used in the filming of Downton Abbey and Dad’s Army. For an extra cost there’s the opportunity to enjoy lunch, afternoon tea or dinner on board the Pullman Dining Train or heritage saloon cars. The line also runs special themed journeys, like a fish and chips lunch or curry journey.
Why we love it
This is a journey steeped in nostalgia, from the gorgeous Pullman carriages used in Downton Abbey to the rolling landscape of the stunning North Yorkshire Moors. Special occasion? We love that you can dine on board the train, or even request special touched like fine wines, flowers, champagne and chocolate.