North Yorkshire Moors Railway

Fine Dining on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

It was 60 years ago that Dr Beeching’s report heralded sweeping changes to the UK rail network. In the name of “economic efficiency”, around 4,000 route miles of track and some 2,363 stations were closed, with devastating consequences for communities, jobs, and what many now look back on as the golden age of rail travel.

Building up a head of Steam

Goathland Station

While there are still a few among us who remember the halcyon days of steam, most can now only imagine them. Thankfully, we are enormously fortunate that dedicated enthusiasts and preservation groups have stepped in to keep that history alive. Today, more than 170 heritage railways operate across the UK, many run largely by volunteers who give their time, skills, and passion to ensure these wonderful machines and journeys can still be experienced.

Staying Connected

Snow starting to fall

One of the finest of these is the North York Moors Railway (NYMR), which has been operating the Pickering to Whitby line for over 50 years. Alison and I have travelled on the railway before, but this year we decided to treat ourselves to something a little special. As a New Year indulgence, we booked onto their Pullman Dining service.

Our journey took place on 3rd January, departing Pickering Station at 12:35 and returning around two and three-quarter hours later. From the moment we arrived, the care and attention of the staff and volunteers was evident. From the warm welcome at the station to the attentive service on board, everyone we encountered played a part in making the experience feel relaxed, friendly, and genuinely special.

We were delighted to find ourselves being hauled by Locomotive 44806, an LMS Class 5 engine, travelling in an authentically restored 1961 Pullman carriage named Jos de Crau, after the Dutch benefactor who purchased and donated it to the NYMR. The carriage itself was a joy being beautifully appointed and full of period character.

Jos de Crau carriage

The pièce de résistance, however, was the weather. Snow began falling on the morning of our trip — not enough to disrupt proceedings, but more than sufficient to transform the North York Moors into a magical winter landscape. As the train wound its way through snow-dusted fields, cuttings, and stations, it felt like stepping back in time, and the views from the window were simply irresistible for the camera.

Steam billowing through trees

Farms and fields

Hardy Souls

We enjoyed two courses on the outward journey, followed by a brief stop at Goathland Station, before dessert was served on the return leg. Excellent food, wonderful scenery, and the gentle rhythm of the train made for a thoroughly memorable afternoon.

All in all, it was a truly enjoyable experience — made even more special by the dedication of the largely volunteer workforce who look after the railway, the trains, and their passengers with such pride and care. The included photographs are my attempt to capture just a little of that magic.

Traditional Scene

Aside Goathland