Our writer Rachel McAlley recently took the NYMR steam train from Pickering to Whitby, along 24 miles of sunning scenery. The train passed through the North Yorkshire Moors, and Goathland station where Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was filmed. It also stopped at Levisham, a quaint train station to pick up extra passengers.
I experienced a nostalgic journey on North Yorkshire Moors Railway, whereby the railway volunteers made sure that my guests had a wonderful time on the heritage train. The platform prior to departure was buzzing with train fans, photographers, and families waiting to board. There was a great atmosphere in the souvenir shop with children buying trinkets, and the café with parents ordering coffee. Everyone was waiting with anticipation to board the train to Whitby, me included.
Once onboard the service was excellent, there was an onboard buffet carriage, which stocked everything needed to enjoy the journey. The seats were extremely comfortable, so much so that on the return from Whitby I actually fell asleep! And, the volunteers offered answers to any steam or diesel train related questions that my daughter asked.
NYMR 2022 Season
North Yorkshire Moors Railway season is in full swing, and there are plenty of dates to look forward to at NYMR. The Annual Steam Gala and beer festival in September being just one of the forthcoming dates. Equally, the well-known Light Spectacular illuminating journey takes place in October, and the Santa Express in December.
For those who don’t want to attend a special event, NYMR is open between now and October for regular weekday and weekend trips along the line. You can go from Pickering to Whitby (Seaside Special), just from Whitby (Yorkshire Express) or shorter journeys if you aren’t planning to visit the coast. It really is a great day out to enjoy with friends and family.
The train we booked was the 9.20am departure from Pickering, arriving in Whitby at 11.10am. It then departed Whitby at 2pm and arrived back in Pickering at around 3.50pm. We spent almost 3 hours walking around Whitby enjoying the seaside shops and entertainment outlets, plus we obviously tucked into fish and chips! We had a fantastic day out, thoroughly enjoyed both relaxing train journeys, and took in the beautiful scenery of the North Yorkshire Moors.
If you want to experience something a little out of the ordinary then tickets for the North Yorkshire Moors Railway would be perfect. Prices start at £21.50 per child, £43 per adult and cost £88 for a family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) or £89 for a family ticket (2 adults, 3 children). Alternatively there is the option to book a private compartment at £120 (for up to 6 people). Visit NYMR to book tickets.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway Season Is In Full Swing – Words by Rachel McAlley
