We’ve just got home from a fantastic day out! This is a great one for train lovers and kids, especially in the school holidays. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway stretches 24 miles through beautiful Yorkshire landscapes, you can hop on and off at the 6 stations between Pickering and Whitby to explore. It’s a lovely day out with younger children! My toddler loved it.
The North Yorkshire Moors Railway
North Yorkshire Moors Railway is in the stunning North York Moors National Park, it has so much history and many trains including heritage steam and diesel trains. There are scenic routes and historic stations like Goathland and Grosmont so you can enjoy a scenic day out with lovely views.
Location and history
The North Yorkshire Moors Railway takes you on a 24-mile journey through lovely landscapes and historic stops in England. This trip starts at Pickering Station, decked out in the style of the 1930s. The railway line is not just about getting from one place to another; it showcases some of the most beautiful parts of Yorkshire.
The stations it stops at are:
- Pickering Station
- Levisham Station
- Newtondale Halt (request stop)
- Goathland Station
- Grosmont Station
- Whitby Station
Goathland Station is famous for featuring as Hogsmeade Station in the first Harry Potter movie. Grosmont Station serves as both an engineering hub and operating centre for NYMR, so you can get a glimpse into how steam and diesel engines keep these heritage trains moving.
Types of trains
You have two choices for your journey on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway: steam or diesel-powered locomotives. I love the steam engines, they really transport you back in time with their distinct chug and whistle.
Heritage diesel trains are part of regular services, making sure everyone finds a time that suits their schedule for an adventure across the moors.
Top Experiences at North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Steam train ride through beautiful countryside
A steam train ride on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway takes you on a magical 24-mile journey. You’ll see Yorkshire’s most stunning landscapes and historic stations. Imagine feeling the gentle rumble of the train as it moves through green fields, dense forests, and rolling hills. You board at one station and travel to another, enjoying hot drinks or maybe even a real ale along the way. There are plenty of walks, things to see and cafes or pubs at each stop – be sure to research before you go! Friendly staff members share stories of each place you pass. They knew so much history and information and they were all so jolly and also told some silly jokes.
Stops at stations like Goathland and Grosmont
Key stops like Goathland and Grosmont are a must!
- Goathland: Fans of magic and mystery will recognise it from the first Harry Potter film. This station doubles as Hogsmeade Station. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the wizarding world. Besides its cinematic fame, Goathland charms with its picturesque surroundings perfect for a walk.
- Grosmont: This is where the heart of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway beats. It’s where steam locomotives and heritage diesels are maintained and cared for.
Special events and themed experiences
The North Yorkshire Moors Railway brings history and fun together through its special events and themed experiences for all ages.
- Santa Specials over Christmas offer a festive journey that leaves everyone feeling joyful. Kids meet Santa, receive gifts, and enjoy hot chocolates, making it a magical day out for families. We did this last Christmas and it was so much fun! My son loved it.
- The Pullman Dining Experience is both luxury travel with fine dining. Passengers dine in style while the beautiful landscapes of North Yorkshire glide by their windows.
- Harry Potter fans love Goathland Station, which featured in the first film of the series. There are lots of photo opportunities here!
- Historical Tours take you back in time. These guided tours delve into the rich history of the railways and surrounding areas, offering insights you won’t find elsewhere.
- Private Tours from Various Locations allow groups to tailor their adventure on the railway. Whether it’s for educational purposes or simply leisure, these tours can cater to specific interests.
- The railway organises Day Trips that include meals and refreshments, ensuring visitors have a comfortable journey without worrying about packing lunch.
Tips for the North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Here are some tips to help ensure you have a fantastic time.
- Buy your tickets early. This railway attracts many visitors, especially during special events like the magical experience weekends or half term. Getting tickets in advance at the ticket office or online ensures you don’t miss out. If you need to collect them from the ticket office before you travel, leave plenty of time to collect them.
- Check the timetable for the next train. The railway operates on a schedule that can vary, particularly when they host events or run different engine types. Looking up times beforehand lets you plan whether it’s a day ticket or return journey you’re after.
- Prepare for the weather. This journey takes you through stunning but sometimes blustery countryside. Pack suitable clothing so a brisk walk at stops like Levisham Station remains enjoyable. The trains can be quite cold at times, so be mindful of that. Especially in the morning!
- Take advantage of parking facilities. Car parks are available at various stations along the line, making it easier if you’re driving in for your adventure.
- Visit nearby attractions too. Make a full day of it by exploring places close to the railway, such as Whitby Abbey or taking a riverside stroll along the River Esk.
- Research each station and area before you get off to make sure you want to get off – it can be a couple of hours between trains!
- Use access guides if needed. The railway and its stations have prepared guides to help everyone enjoy their visit, including those with mobility issues.
- Enjoy dining on board or at stations. From snacks and drinks available on most trains to more formal dining experiences in Pullman cars, there’s something to satisfy everyone’s appetite.
- Don’t forget souvenirs from the gift shop! Whether it’s mementoes for future visits or gifts themed around your favourite steam engines, stop by one of the shops located at bigger stations like Pickering and Grosmont.
- Support through charitable giving if possible. As a charitable trust run largely by enthusiastic volunteers, every donation helps keep this historic railway chugging along for years to come.
- Finally, bring your camera! You’ll want to take photos!
Must-see attractions nearby
The area around Pickering has several must-see attractions, including the historic Pickering Castle and the Beck Isle Museum. St Peter’s & St Paul’s Church is also worth a visit for its architectural beauty and historical significance.
Additionally, nature enthusiasts can explore the Dalby Forest Cycle Hub for outdoor adventures such as cycling, hiking, and wildlife spotting. These attractions provide a well-rounded experience for visitors to North Yorkshire Moors Railway.
Our Day On The North Yorkshire Moors Railway
We got the first train from Pickering which was at 9:20 am. We parked in the car park and paid £5 for a full day of parking. There were loads of people at the platform, I was a bit worried we wouldn’t get a seat! It wasn’t long until we saw the steam engine appear out of the distance. What a magnificent sight! It looks so grand with all the steam covering the platform.
We got on the train and there was loads of room so we didn’t need to worry. We were delayed though, after about 30 minutes we set off and passed through the different stations. The views were gorgeous, Lots of pretty streams, cottages and animals to see. We got off at the last stop in Whitby and grabbed some lunch, did some shopping and went to the beach. Then we got back on the 2:10 pm train back to Pickering. I would have stopped to have stopped at Goathland but left it a bit late really! We could have stopped but it would have been another two hours to get the next train and with a toddler and dog with us, we just wanted to get back as it was a long day for them.
We had a lovely day and my 3-year-old train enthusiast loved it on the train. He enjoyed looking out of the window and watching the world go by.
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I love old trains like this, I’d love to ride on one! This looks like a lovely day out and I’m glad your son had a fab time! x
Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk
This is a fantastic guide for anyone who wants to give it a try, especially for newcomers. I’d love to give this experience a go. Love travelling by train and there is so much to see. I love your beautiful photos too!
Been a few years since I went to North Yorkshire but it was all so beautiful! This was something I never did, but I’ll have to remember for next time x
It’s a shame you didn’t get to Goathland, it’s lovely there! We’ve done the railway a couple of times but haven’t managed to get on the steam train yet, we were maybe out of season or something. Sounds like you had a lovely day.
Claire.X
Looks like you had a lovely day. Goathland is brilliant too, you’ll have to go back and do that. It’s the perfect place for a slow day. X
We love the NYMR, I feel like every time we go on it we have a different experience too, there’s loads to do along the way! x