If your kids are Paddington Bear fans—or if you’re the one secretly obsessed—then there’s something big coming to Yorkshire this spring. Can you meet Paddington Bear on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway?
If your kids are Paddington Bear fans—or if you’re the one secretly obsessed—then there’s something big coming to Yorkshire this spring. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) is pulling out all the stops with a proper family-friendly day out, and yes, Paddington himself will be there. On 3rd and 4th May 2025, you’ll be able to meet the famous marmalade-loving bear in real life while riding vintage trains through some of the prettiest countryside the UK has to offer.
For families wondering what to do over the May bank holiday or just looking for a good excuse to get out into the fresh air, this could tick all the boxes. Steam trains, beautiful views, and a bear in a floppy red hat—what’s not to love?
Paddington is coming to Yorkshire this May
On Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th May 2025, Paddington™ will be making a special appearance at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. He’s not just popping his head out the train window either—you’ll actually get to meet him!
This isn’t just a quick photo op either. There’ll be loads going on to keep little ones entertained while giving grown-ups a hefty dose of nostalgia. Whether you’ve read the books, watched the films, or had a Paddington lunchbox in the ’90s, this is one of those feel-good family days out that manages to charm all ages.
According to Charlotte Hawes, the Events and Guest Experience Manager at NYMR:
“We’re incredibly excited to welcome Paddington™ to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. His stories have delighted generations, and we can’t wait for families to create special memories with him against the stunning backdrop of our heritage railway.”
And honestly, she’s not wrong. There’s something magical about steam trains, and throwing Paddington into the mix just adds to the charm.
What’s included on the day?
There’s more than just bear hugs to look forward to. Alongside meeting Paddington, NYMR is laying on some extra family activities to make sure everyone gets into the spirit of the day.
Here’s what you can expect:
- 🧳 Luggage tag stamping – Think old-school travel vibes but hands-on fun for the kids.
- 📚 Storytelling sessions – Because no Paddington day would be complete without hearing about one of his adventures.
- 🚂 Heritage train rides – Hop aboard a steam or vintage diesel train and roll through the North York Moors National Park, one of the most stunning parts of the country.
You’ll start your journey from Pickering Station, and honestly, even before Paddington shows up, the views are worth the trip.
Ticket prices and discounts
Let’s talk brass tacks. Here’s what you’re looking at ticket-wise:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult Day Rover | £54.50 |
| Child Day Rover | £13.50 |
| Family Day Rover* | Varies – includes 2 free children |
| Under 4s | Free |
*Family ticket includes 2 adults and 2 children (with 2 kids going free).
If you’re organised (or at least semi-organised), booking at least four days in advance online gets you 10% off Day Rover tickets. Which, if you’re travelling as a family, adds up nicely. Definitely worth it for what’s essentially a full day of fun and memories.
Why this is actually a pretty smart day out
Let’s be real: kids have short attention spans and grown-ups have tight budgets. So any event that:
- Has characters the kids love ✅
- Lets them run around outdoors ✅
- Is low-fuss for parents ✅
- Includes a bit of history, storytelling, and scenery ✅
…feels like a solid win.
And honestly, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway is a gem on its own. There’s something relaxing about the gentle chug of a steam train, and the route between Pickering and Whitby is full of scenic highlights. Even if Paddington wasn’t showing up, it would still be a cracking day out. But with him? It’s just that bit more special. is pulling out all the stops with a proper family-friendly day out, and yes, Paddington himself will be there. On 3rd and 4th May 2025, you’ll be able to meet the famous marmalade-loving bear in real life while riding vintage trains through some of the prettiest countryside the UK has to offer.
For families wondering what to do over the May bank holiday or just looking for a good excuse to get out into the fresh air, this could tick all the boxes. Steam trains, beautiful views, and a bear in a floppy red hat—what’s not to love?
