North Yorkshire heritage railway reveals new festive routes

The Christmas Moorlander on the North Yorkshire Pullman (Image: John Hunt)>

STEAM, scenery, and seasonal magic are on track to delight visitors at a heritage North Yorkshire railway later this year.

North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) is promising "nostalgic festive fun" for all ages with a launch of packed programme of Christmas experiences departing from Pickering this winter.

"From history lovers and railway enthusiasts to families looking for something special this Christmas, this season promises something exciting for all visitors," said a spokesperson for the railway.

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One of this year’s highlights is the Santa Express - a steam train journey that gives children the chance to meet Santa and his elves, plus the newly introduced character, Gingersnap.

Prices start from £29.50 and it will be running from November 28 and 29, as well as several dates throughout December up until the Christmas Eve.

For those looking for a treat, the Christmas North Yorkshire Pullman offers a seasonal dining experience through the wintry landscape from Pickering to Goathland.

Available on selected dates from November 24 to January 3, 2027, guests will enjoy a festive menu featuring traditional roast turkey or honey roast gammon, along with mulled wine, mince pies, and a relaxed 2 hour 45-minute journey.

The Santa Express team

(Image: Provided)

Tickets start from £101.50 per person.

New for this year is the Festive Fish & Chips service, with outbound meals and return refreshments on 24th, 25th, 26th November; 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 8th, 10th, 11th, 15th, 17th, 29th December; and 2nd, 3rd January.

Tables for two start at £110 and can be upgraded with cream scones or cheese and biscuits.

Adults can enjoy the Tinsel Tipple experience for £35 per person, featuring live Christmas singalongs, festive drinks, onboard entertainment from the elves, and a Baileys with a mince pie. It departs on November 28, December 12, 22, and 23.

For those hoping to "indulge and relax", the Festive Travel & Treats journey is available for £130 per couple and includes a steam or heritage diesel round trip to Goathland, plus a seasonal goody bag of sandwiches, tray bakes, biscuits, mince pies, and drinks.

Jessica Hogarth's Christmas collection for NYMR

(Image: Provided)

Christmas Afternoon Tea will also be served in the Great Western Saloon on November 26 and December 3, 10 and 17 for £85.

Guests can enjoy mulled wine, sandwiches, sweet treats, and panoramic winter views from the comfort of this vintage carriage.

Private Christmas charters are available from November 24 to January 3 in the decorated 1940s Great Western Saloon, including mulled wine, a buffet lunch, and a dedicated host for £1,595 for up to 18 people.

For visitors looking to extend their stay, NYMR offers three-night breaks in camping coaches at Goathland or Levisham stations, or at Grosmont Station House.

NYMR's festive gift collection also returns this year, featuring an exclusive Jessica Hogarth knitwear range and a beautifully curated hamper range.

Bookings and more information can be found at www.nymr.co.uk/christmas