North Yorkshire Moors Railway

ke a trip on one of the world’s greatest railway experiences, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. Railway Conservation. Run by Volunteers. Not for Profit. It really is one of the most unique experiences in Yorkshire, making it one of our top recommendations for a memorable family day out in the North York Moors.

Photo credit: NYMR

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is one of the world’s greatest heritage railway experiences with thrills and family fun at its heart. Climb on board a steam or heritage diesel train and experience 24 miles of Yorkshire’s amazing scenery at this must-see visitor attraction.

Upcoming Events
 

Santa Express

29, 30 November, 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 to 24 December

Come and enjoy a brand new interactive adventure for families as they meet Father Christmas on the NYMR Santa Express. The steam train ride will be packed with songs, jokes and the magic of Christmas, brought to life by Santa’s Elves - families will also get to meet the great man himself on board.

Your Santa Express

At Pickering station, families will be welcomed by the sights and sounds of the Santa Express steam train with Christmas decorations, traditional games, and live singing to get everyone in the Christmas spirit. Once on board, Santa’s team of elves will keep everyone entertained with sing-alongs, Christmas-cracker jokes, and plenty of fun. Each child will also receive a special keepsake to take home.

Meet The Elves

• Elton Elf, known for his musical skills. 
• Joey Marshmallow, the cheeky trickster. 
• Chef Custard, who looks after Santa and his reindeer with his special recipes. 
• Also, keep an eye out for Chris Mouse, the Station Mouse, who checks that everyone is on the Nice List with his cheeky “eek, eek, eek!” 

Fares & Booking

Tickets for the Santa Express start from £29.50 per person with an extra 10% off if you book online before 31 August 2025.

Registered Carers: Registered adult or child carers of a disabled Santa Express passenger are eligible for a reduced-rate ticket when the standard Santa Express fare applies to the disabled passenger. Passengers booking a reduced-rate carer's ticket will be required to provide a valid form of ID to confirm eligibility.

Wheelchair users: On each service we have two dedicated wheelchair user spaces available in our Fuss Free carriage with fold down seats for up to two travel companions, bookable online.

 

Railway 200 Celebrations

Join our 200 Mile Challenge and complete 200 miles on the NYMR in 2025. Plus, discover 200 railway-themed activities throughout the year.

Explore the Railway

• Pickering Station is a beautiful 1930s themed station;
• See stunning scenery and wildlife in the North York Moors National Park;
• Visit Goathland, which became Hogsmeade Station in the first Harry Potter film;
• Explore Grosmont Station, home to the operating and engineering world of the NYMR;
• Visit Whitby with its narrow streets, bustling harbour and the ruins of Whitby Abbey.
  
  

Engine 92134 at Levisham Station (Photo credit: Charlotte Graham)

Ticket Information

Various ticket prices – please see website for details.

Visit website

Accessibility

Fuss-free access means that all of the carriage sets in service on the full length of the line contain one vehicle that has been specially adapted to ease access for everyone with mobility problems and accommodate them with their friends and family.

Parking

There is paid parking available just a short walk from Pickering Station.

Engine 76079 at Newtondale (Photo credit: Charlotte Graham)

Directions by car from Great Ayton to Pickering

There are various routes to take you from Great Ayton to North Yorkshire Moors Railway at Pickering, we have detailed two options below:

Shortest Route

A beautifully scenic route taking you over the moors via the A170.

Duration: Approximately 50 minutes drive (29 miles)

• From the stone bridge over the River Leven at the Low Green take the direction up Easby Lane (1.6miles)
• Turn left onto Battersby Avenue and travel to Crag Bank (4.2 miles)
• Turn onto Sleddale Road then Upper Esk Road which leads to Blakey Ridge (6.1 miles)
• At Blakey Ridge take the Yarn Brow (A170) to Park Street in Pickering

Via Guisborough

Takes you through the historic market town of Guisborough and up onto the moors via Blakey Ridge.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour drive (36 miles)

• From Great Ayton take the A173 towards Guisborough
• At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Middlesbrough Road (A171)
• At the next roundabout take the first exit, remaining on the A171
• At the next roundabout take the 2nd exit, remaining on the A171
• At the next roundabout take the 2nd exit onto Whitby Road on the A171
• Turn right onto Smeathorns Road
• Continue onto Blakey Ridge on the A170 to Park Street in Pickering
  
  

Try the Train from Great Ayton Station to Grosmont

Grosmont Station (Photo credit: Charlotte Graham)

Travel directly from Great Ayton Station to Grosmont using the Esk Valley Railway (train operator is Northern Railway). From Grosmont Station you can take the North Yorkshire Moors Railway to Pickering and return.

Travel Info

Engine footplate (Photo credit: Charlotte Graham)

All information and images are courtesy of North Yorkshire Moors Railway with the exception of directions.