From London: the North York Moors With Steam Train to Whitby

The North York Moors offer a captivating escape from the hustle and bustle of London. This 13.5-hour excursion promises a scenic train journey, guided bus tour, and nostalgic steam train ride through the region’s picturesque villages and historic sites. Visitors can explore the enchanting Byland Abbey, charming Whitby, and more, seeing the area’s timeless charm. With free time to savor local seafood and culture, this tour provides a well-rounded experience of the North York Moors’ natural beauty and enduring heritage.

Key Points

• A day-long excursion from London to explore the scenic North York Moors, including a guided bus tour and a nostalgic steam train ride to the historic town of Whitby.
• Roundtrip train travel from London King’s Cross to York, with reserved seating and scenic views of the English countryside.
• Guided mini-bus tour of the North York Moors, visiting picturesque villages, Byland Abbey, and the town of Helmsley.
• Two hours of free time in Whitby to visit the iconic abbey and sample local seafood.
• A highlight of the tour, a journey on a vintage steam train through the North York Moors, evoking a sense of timelessness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour, priced at €255.41 per person, offers a comprehensive 13.5-hour excursion from London King’s Cross to the North York Moors National Park and Whitby.

The tour includes roundtrip train travel between London and York, a guided bus tour of the North York Moors, a nostalgic steam train ride, and free time in the coastal town of Whitby.

With free cancellation up to 7 days in advance, this tour provides an ideal way to explore the stunning natural landscapes and charming villages of this beautiful region.

Guests can expect to return to London King’s Cross by approximately 8:33 PM.

Scenic Train Journey

The tour commences with a scenic train journey from London King’s Cross to York.

Travelers settle into their reserved seats as the train departs, the cityscape gradually giving way to rolling green hills and quaint villages. The approximately 2-hour journey allows ample time to admire the picturesque English countryside.

Upon arrival in York, participants disembark and meet their driver-guide, ready to embark on the next adventure – a guided tour of the North York Moors National Park.

This seamless transition from train to bus ensures a smooth and efficient start to the day’s activities.

Guided Bus Tour

Upon disembarking the train in York, the group meets their driver-guide, who leads them onto a 16-seater mini-bus for the guided tour of the North York Moors National Park.

The driver-guide shares fascinating insights about the park’s history, geology, and local wildlife as they traverse the rolling hills and heather-clad moorlands.

Stops include the picturesque villages of Helmsley and Goathland, where the group can explore the charming streets and quaint local shops.

The tour provides a rundown of the park’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, leaving the travelers with a deeper appreciation for this stunning region.

Historic Abbey and Towns

After exploring the picturesque villages, the tour continues to the historic Byland Abbey. Founded in the 12th century, the abbey’s striking ruins showcase the grandeur of medieval architecture.

Visitors can wander through the impressive arches and halls, imagining the daily life of the Cistercian monks who once inhabited this site.

Next, the tour heads to the charming town of Helmsley, known for its 12th-century castle and quaint market square.

The final stop is the fishing port of Whitby, where participants can spend two hours exploring the narrow streets, visiting the iconic abbey, and sampling the town’s renowned seafood.

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Nostalgic Steam Train Ride

From Goathland Station, often referred to as "Hogsmeade Station" by Harry Potter fans, participants board a nostalgic steam train for a memorable journey through the heart of the North York Moors.

The vintage locomotive pulls carriages along the picturesque heritage rail line, offering a truly immersive experience. Passengers can peer out the windows at the rolling hills, woodlands, and charming villages that dot the landscape.

The steam train’s whistle echoes through the valley, adding to the sense of timelessness. This excursion is a highlight of the tour, transporting travelers back to a bygone era.

Free Time in Whitby

How much time is allotted for exploring the charming seaside town of Whitby? The tour provides 2 hours of free time to wander the picturesque streets and harbor.

Visitors can browse the quaint shops, sample fresh local seafood, or climb the 199 steps up to the iconic Whitby Abbey. The town’s Gothic architecture and connections to Bram Stoker’s "Dracula" make it a must-see.

Whether you visit the Captain Cook Memorial Museum or simply soak in the seaside ambiance, the free time in Whitby allows travelers to experience the charm of this historic Yorkshire town.

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour includes roundtrip train travel between London and York with reserved seats, allowing travelers to sit back and enjoy the scenic journey. Plus, the tour provides a guided bus tour of the stunning North York Moors National Park, visits to historic sites like Byland Abbey and Helmsley, and a nostalgic steam train ride from Goathland Station to Whitby. Lunch and any necessary entry fees are also included, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.

| Included | Duration | Cost |

|———-|———|——-|

| Train Travel | Roundtrip | Included |

| Guided Tour | Full Day | Included |

| Steam Train Ride | 1.5 Hours | Included |

| Lunch | N/A | Included |

| Entry Fees | N/A | Included |

Important Considerations

While the tour offers a comprehensive experience, there are a few important considerations for potential travelers.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5 years old. Guests should be prepared for an early departure from London at 6:15 AM and a late return around 8:33 PM.

The itinerary and stops are subject to change based on availability. The train journey to and from York is unescorted.

Plus, the steam train may be replaced with a heritage diesel under certain conditions at the discretion of the North York Moors Railway.

Comfortable shoes are recommended for this full-day excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for people with mobility issues, as it involves walking and navigating uneven terrain. However, the guided bus tour and steam train ride can accommodate some mobility needs. Passengers should check with the tour operator for specific accessibility details.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour provider encourages participants to pack a lunch and snacks to enjoy during the day. However, some meals may be included as part of the tour package.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking. Guests can expect to walk for approximately 2-3 hours throughout the day, including exploring the national park, abbeys, and towns. Comfortable shoes are recommended to fully enjoy the experience.

Can I Extend My Stay in Whitby After the Tour?

Guests can extend their stay in Whitby after the tour, though this is not included in the package. The tour provides 2 hours of free time in Whitby for independent exploration, but additional time must be arranged separately.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to First-Class Train Tickets?

Yes, there is an option to upgrade to first-class train tickets for an additional fee. The tour operator can assist with this upgrade prior to the departure date if requested.

The Sum Up

This North York Moors excursion from London offers a captivating blend of scenic train journeys, guided bus tours, and immersive experiences in historic abbeys and charming towns. The highlight is the nostalgic steam train ride, providing breathtaking views of the moors and a touch of timeless charm. With ample free time in Whitby, travelers can savor local seafood delicacies and soak in the town’s unique culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: