It’s never to early too early to start talking about Christmas – and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) has announced its line-up of festive experiences.
From history lovers and railway enthusiasts to families looking for something special this Christmas, this season promises something exciting for all visitors.
Featuring the return of the Santa Express alongside new seasonal experiences including a Festive Fish & Chips service and Tinsel Tipple.
Santa Express
This festive steam train ride begins at Pickering and brings to life the magic of Christmas with the opportunity to meet Santa, and his cheeky team of elves, with a new introduction to the magical experience – Gingersnap, a classic, playful festive character who features across the event.
- This year’s Santa Express services will run on 28th and 29th November, and 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th, 22nd-24th December 2026.
- Tickets for the Santa Express start from £29.50 per person.
Christmas North Yorkshire Pullman
Diners can treat themselves and loved ones to a foodie journey like no other from Pickering to Goathland and back, surrounded by winter scenery. The carefully curated festive menu features Traditional Roast Turkey with all the trimmings or Honey Roast Gammon to indulgent Chef’s Homemade Chocolate Orange Cheesecake or classic Christmas Pudding. The 2 hour 45 minute experience also includes a welcome glass of mulled wine, tea, coffee and mince pies and is the ultimate way to celebrate the season.
- The traditional North Yorkshire Pullman Christmas returns on select dates from 24th November to 3rd January 2027.
- Seats are priced from £101.50 per person.
Festive Fish & Chips service
Brand new for this Christmas 2026 is a Festive Fish & Chips service running from Pickering, with fish and chips served on the outbound journey with tea, coffee, and a mince pie on the return.
- On 24th, 25th, 26th November, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 8th, 10th, 11th, 15th, 17th, 29th December and 2nd, 3rd January.
- The Festive Fish & Chips services start at £110 for a table of two. You can also treat yourself to a Cream Scone or Cheese & Biscuits for a small additional fee.
Tinsel Tipple
Another new event for Christmas 2026 is Tinsel Tipple, a festive train journey from Pickering featuring live Christmas sing-alongs, entertaining elves throughout the carriages and includes a Baileys and mince pie served on board. Non-alcoholic drinks are available. The event offers a relaxed and grown-up experience which promises to leave guests in full festive spirit.
- Services depart on 28th November, 12th, 22nd and 23rd December and cost £35 per person.
Festive Travel & Treats
For those looking to indulge and relax, the Festive Travel & Treats experience offers a steam or heritage diesel round-trip from Pickering to Goathland and back, with a jute bag filled with seasonal goodies for two. A choice of drink, sandwich, tray bakes, box of biscuits, tea, coffee and mince pies can all be enjoyed from your seat as you take in the spectacular views of the North York Moors.
- A Festive Travel & Treats package for two people is £130.
Christmas Afternoon Tea on the Great Western Saloon
Jump aboard the Great Western Saloon, one of the railway’s most-loved carriages with unparalleled vista-viewing from the plush sofa seating, for Christmas Afternoon Tea. Sip mulled wine and tuck into a selection of handmade sandwiches, savouries, sweet treats and of course, mince pies, all while travelling through the wintery landscape.
- On 26th November, 3rd, 10th and 17th December.
- This experience is £85 per person.
This festive season is jam-packed with fun for everyone – to find out more and to book tickets, head to NYMR website.