North Yorkshire Moors Railway has unveiled its festive line-up for 2026
You can board the Santa Express again this year at North Yorkshire Moors Railway(Image: nymr.co.uk)
Christmas is coming to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) as it announces 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.
There is the return of the Santa Express for little ones to look forward to again. There will also be some brand-new seasonal experiences on the agenda.
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 November 28 and 29, and December 5 and 6, 12 and 13, 19 and 20, and from 22 to 24. Tickets for the Santa Express start from £29.50 per person.
Christmas North Yorkshire Pullman
The traditional North Yorkshire Pullman Christmas returns on select dates from November 24 to January 3, 2027. 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 2hr 45m experience also includes a welcome glass of mulled wine, tea, coffee and mince pies and is the ultimate way to celebrate the season. Seats are priced from £101.50 per person.
Festive Fish & Chips
Brand new for this Christmas 2026 is a Festive Fish and Chips service running from Pickering, with fish and chips served on the outbound journey with tea, coffee, and a mince pie on the return from November 24 to 26 and on December 1, 2, 3, 8, 10, 11, 15, 17, 29 and January 2 and 3. The Festive Fish & Chips services start at £110 for a table of two. You can also treat yourself to a cream scone or cheese and 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 including a Bailey’s 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 November 28 and December 12, 22 and 23 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 on November 26 and December 3, 10 and 17. Sip mulled wine and tuck into a selection of handmade sandwiches, savouries, sweet treats and of course, mince pies, all while travelling through the wintry landscape. This experience is £85 per person.
Christmas charters
For private celebrations or a Christmas party with a difference, charter the stunning Great Western Saloon. Available on selected dates from November 24 to January 3, this experience offers a beautifully decorated 1940s saloon carriage, complete with mulled wine, a buffet lunch, and a dedicated member of staff to ensure everything runs smoothly.
The Christmas Buffet is available for £1,595 for up to 18 guests.
Short winter breaks
This winter, get away from it all and enjoy a short three-night stay in a cosy camping coach at Goathland or Levisham Stations, or Grosmont Station House. Use the accommodation as a base from which to enjoy a brisk winter walk through the stunning surrounding countryside, and visit nearby country pubs and historic market towns and villages.
Christmas gifts
This Christmas, you can also discover unique gifts while helping to safeguard the NYMR’s future for generations to come. The charming Jessica Hogarth Christmas Collection includes an exclusive knitwear range featuring a festive jumper, jacquard scarf, beanie hat and a matching dog jumper.
There are also hand-painted glass baubles inspired by original watercolours from artist David Charlesworth. Discover the beautifully-curated hamper range, packed with delicious treats and thoughtful gifts that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you are celebrating, saying thank you, or simply treating someone special, every hamper offers a taste of Yorkshire and beyond.
This festive season is jam-packed with fun for everyone, and by visiting you are helping to keep the story of NYMR alive for years to come. To find out more and to book tickets, visit nymr.co.uk/christmas