With the season of families, food and festivities on the horizon, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) prepares for a Christmas more magical than ever before as it launches Northern Lights Express and also welcomes the return of visitor favourite, Santa Specials.

Join NYMR for an evening train ride to remember aboard – the Northern Lights Express. This beautifully illuminated journey departs from Pickering Station, where heritage carriages decorated with thousands of lights awaits.

Embark on the 60-minute journey, travel through an magical forest and watch as the dark North Yorkshire countryside is lit up by a multitude of lights and enjoy special surprises along the way. As the steam train pulls into Levisham Station, a dazzling light show will unfold as a season first.

The award-winning heritage railway continues to bring Christmas to life as NYMR sees the return of family-favourite, Santa Specials – a charming train ride that Santa Claus himself attends to meet children and deliver gifts ahead of the big day with the help of his jolly helpers.

As seasonal cheer spreads through the heritage carriages, Santa and his helpers will meet excited children as the train moves through the picturesque North York Moors. Visitors can tuck into a delicious mince pie, hot drink and a warming alcohol tipple as children enjoy their own activity bag.

Chris Price, General Manager at NYMR, said: “We’re so pleased to host two wonderful events over the Christmas period that allows families and friends to come together and enjoy our magnificent heritage railway. The return of Santa Specials is always a favourite amongst the staff and volunteers here and we’re all so excited to launch what will be an incredible attraction, Northern Lights Express.”

Both events open to the public from 30th November until 22nd December during various times. Book now for a truly magical Christmas experience perfect to share with loved ones of all ages.

Northern Lights Express will operate on 30 November and 1, 7, 8, 12*, 13*, 14, 15, 19*, 20*, 21, 22 & 23* December, departing at 7pm. *Two evening services will take place on highlighted dates departing at 5pm and 7pm. Tickets cost £25.00 per person. Groups (20+) can be booked via Customer Services on 01751 472508. Prices from £22 per adult/child. Book Now nymr.co.uk/northern-lights-express.

Santa Specials will depart from Pickering Station to Levisham on 30th November and 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st and 22nd December at 09:35, 11:10, 13:55 and 15:30. Tickets cost £23 including activity bag and present for children.

Santa Specials will depart from Grosmont Station to Goathland on 30th November and 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st and 22nd December at 10:15, 12:30 and 14:35. Tickets cost £22 including activity bag and present for children.

To book visit nymr.co.uk/santa-specials