A beautiful 24-mile train journey that takes you through the iconic Harry Potter station is among the most scenic in the UK. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) travels between Pickering and Whitby, with stops at charming stations like Levisham, Goathland (aka Hogsmeade from Harry Potter), and Grosmont.
National Geographic compiled a list of the most scenic train journeys in the country, and the NYMR has secured one of the top spots. The steam train offers a nostalgic journey through the stunning landscapes of the North York Moors National Park. Goathland Station feels like stepping into the past, thanks to its well-kept 19th-century buildings and old-fashioned vibe. Travellers can start their journey at Pickering Station, a restored 1930s-style stop that brings the steam era to life. Then relax in the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife of the North York Moors National Park – a peaceful break from the busy world.
The next stop is the very famous Goathland Station. A former goods shed from 1922 is now a welcoming tea room where you can enjoy drinks and snacks, while the nearby shop offers train-themed souvenirs and local gifts.
Outdoor lovers can stroll the peaceful Rail Trail – a 3.5-mile path linking Goathland to Grosmont. Just a short distance away, you will find the scenic Mallyan Spout Waterfall, the quaint village of Goathland, and the cozy Birch Hall Inn in Beck Hole.
One can book a spot aboard one of the beautifully restored heritage coaches, featuring gleaming teak interiors, or opt for the Pullman Dining Train to savour regional dishes while gliding through the moorland scenery. The charges for the one-way route start at £13.50.
The final destination of the journey is the beautiful coastal of Whitby brimming with character. With historic charm, winding streets and a vibrant harbour, the town is a must-visit place.
Travellers who have been on the ride termed the experience as “stepping back to another era”.
One person wrote on TripAdvisor forum: “Goathland Station is really enjoyable. All the staff we met were very friendly and kind and they all seemed happy to be there. £3.50 to park at the station which was fine. As soon as you’ve parked, you are free to access the platforms, stairs, toilets, tea room etc.
“By lucky fluke we were able to see the first train of the day depart, which was lovely as small children behind us were so excited to see the train arrive. My family are Harry Potter fans so having not been before, we took lots of photographs of everything!
“It was lovely to stand on the very spot Harry Potter cast members had stood on. I’d like to give a special mention to the very kind lady in the Station Shop, Margaret, who was very kind and happy and when we popped up the road to the shops before coming back, she was very kind to let me capture some great photographs of the next train that just happened to be arriving at the station, from just beside the shop. My whole family really enjoyed it. The whole station was beautifully clean and tidy. I would certainly return. We loved it.”
Another person wrote: “I visited this famous station out of season, so I had the benefit of just myself and two other people on the station.
“Of course there were no events, trains or facilities open but I still got to enjoy what was on offer. Deemed to be uneconomic, the line through the station was closed to passenger traffic in 1965 as part of the Beeching cuts, before reopening in 1973 as part of the wonderful North Yorkshire Moors Railway.
“The station is very well maintained and it really is like taking a step back to another era……and of course there is the nostalgia of Heartbeat & Harry Potter.”
A third visitor said: “Hidden gem up in the Yorkshire Moors.”