Festive Trains on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway

As the air gets a bit crisper and the nights draw in, thoughts naturally turn to one thing: Christmas. Finding something a bit different to do, something that feels properly festive, can be a real head-scratcher. But this year, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) is rolling out a whole fleet of festive trains, offering a magical experience that chugs right through the stunning scenery of the Yorkshire Moors. There's genuinely something for everyone, whether it's for a family day out with the little ones or a fancy meal for two.

All aboard the santa express!

For many families, a trip to see the big man himself is the main event of the Christmas season. The Santa Express is the NYMR's answer to this, and it's a classic for a good reason. Starting on Saturday, 29th November, these special services will run every Saturday and Sunday right up to Christmas. They're even putting on extra trains on Monday, 23rd December and Tuesday, 24th December, for those last-minute believers. The magic begins the moment passengers step on board. Santa's cheeky elves are there to get everyone into the Christmas spirit with songs and jokes, creating a brilliant atmosphere. Then, the moment everyone has been waiting for: Santa makes his way through the carriages, meeting every family and making sure he knows exactly what's on their wish lists. It's a fantastic way to build that festive excitement.

And it's not just about meeting Santa. Passengers on these festive trains are in for some lovely festive treats, too. The famous Bettys Bar carriage will be welcoming travellers, and everyone gets a special Jute bag packed with goodies. Inside, there are homemade sandwiches, crisps, a box of delicious Lottie Shaw Biscuits, chocolate fudge, and, of course, mince pies. It's a proper little picnic to enjoy while the train steams through the moors. The whole experience is designed to be a magical adventure from start to finish.

Fancy a festive afternoon tea?

If a slightly more relaxed and grown-up experience is on the cards, then the festive Afternoon Tea service is just the ticket. These trips take place in the gorgeous, vintage Great Western Railway Saloon, which is decked out in full festive decorations. It's like stepping back in time to a more glamorous age of train travel. These special services begin on Thursday, 25th November and run every Thursday until 18th December.

Departing from Grosmont station, passengers get to enjoy a scenic round trip through the beautiful landscape. While on board, they are served a classic afternoon tea, complete with sandwiches, sweet treats, and a choice of tea or coffee. It's the perfect way to catch up with a friend or treat a loved one to something special during the busy Christmas run-up.

Planning a christmas party or a special get-together?

For those looking to organise something really memorable for a group, the Great Western Railway Saloon is also available for private functions. These Christmas Charters are ideal for work parties or big family celebrations for up to 18 guests. Running on selected days throughout the festive season right up until 4th January 2026, these private functions offer an exclusive experience.

A charter includes a round trip from Grosmont to Pickering, with a dedicated member of staff on board to look after everyone. Guests can enjoy a buffet while they travel, and there's even an option to add an on-board bar service, stocked with fine wines, local beers, and soft drinks. It's a unique venue for a party that people will be talking about for ages. These Christmas charters offer a really special way to celebrate.

For the foodies: fine dining on the moors

A truly luxurious experience awaits on the North Yorkshire Pullman. This is fine dining on the move, combining incredible food with breathtaking views of the Yorkshire Moors National Park. The Christmas Pullman dining services run on selected dates from Tuesday, 25th November to Sunday, 4th January 2026. Each passenger is treated to an indulgent three-course meal from a specially created festive menu. Imagine tucking into a beautifully prepared dinner while the wintery landscape of the Yorkshire Moors slides past the window. It's an unforgettable way to celebrate the festive season, perfect for a romantic evening or a sophisticated celebration.

A winter trip to the seaside in whitby

The fun at the NYMR doesn't stop on Christmas Day. Between the 27th of December 2025 and the 4th of January 2026, the railway will be running its popular Winter Excursions. These steam train journeys start at Pickering and make their way through the Moors for a day trip to the iconic seaside town of Whitby. This gives visitors a few hours to explore the charming, cobbled streets, maybe walk up to the Abbey, or just enjoy some fish and chips by the sea. A trip to Whitby is always a treat, and arriving by steam train makes it even more special. It's a brilliant way to blow away the cobwebs during that quiet time between Christmas and New Year.

Stay a little longer in a camping coach

For anyone who wants to make a proper break of it, the NYMR offers a wonderfully quirky accommodation option. Their restored camping coaches at Goathland and Levisham stations provide a cosy and comfortable base for exploring the area. A three-night break in one of these coaches means being right in the middle of all the railway action. It's an ideal spot for those who want to spend a few days riding the festive trains, exploring the walking trails across the moors, or visiting the nearby villages. It's a unique way to experience the NYMR and the surrounding national park.

Last-minute christmas gifts sorted

And finally, for anyone on the hunt for presents, the station gift shops along the line are full of inspiration. From railway-themed memorabilia to local crafts, there are plenty of unique Christmas gifts to be found. The Christmas Emporium at Pickering station is a must-visit, offering a huge range of festive decorations and gift ideas. It's a great place to browse and find those last few bits and pieces, or even a special souvenir to remember a fantastic day out on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. Tickets for all these amazing festive events and festive trains are on sale now.