North Yorkshire Moors Railway

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway operates historic steam trains along about 24 miles of track through moorland between Pickering and Whitby. The railway maintains a collection of locomotives and carriages from different eras, restored and operated by volunteers who manage every aspect of its running.

The original railway opened in the 1830s as part of the York and North Midland Railway network serving industrial and passenger transport. It closed in the 1960s but was revived by heritage enthusiasts in the late 1960s to operate as a preservation railway.

The railway and its stations reflect how communities along the route have embraced heritage preservation as part of their identity and local pride. Visitors can observe the care taken in maintaining authentic Victorian details at each stop, showing how the place remains connected to its 19th-century character.

The railway operates seasonally from spring through autumn with regular departures from Pickering station, offering different routes depending on the time of year. Visitors should book ahead and bring layers, as journeys often involve riding in restored historic carriages that can be cool, especially in higher moorland areas.

Goathland station served as the filming location for Hogsmeade station in the Harry Potter films and also appeared in the British television series Heartbeat. This film and television connection has made it an unexpected destination for fans seeking out shooting locations.