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North Yorkshire Railway to feature on BBC 2 show

The ever popular travel documentary ‘Great British Railway Journeys' is currently running its 15th series at 6:30pm on weekday nights on BBC2.

Next week presenter Michael Portillo 's journey will take him on a visit to the Wensleydale Railway in North Yorkshire on the final stage of a five part trip, commencing from next Monday evening to Friday evening.

The filming for the episode which features the Wensleydale Railway took place in June 2023, where Michael was intrigued to learn about the role of historical interpreters and re-enactors.

At Wensleydales award winning finely restored Edwardian station at Scruton , volunteers here have been dressing up in period costumes since 2016, while at the same time educating and interacting with visitors who take a free tour of Scruton's station buildings.

Visitors are told authentic historical stories as part of the experience which shows what life was like at a railway station at the start of the 20th century.

All the interactive programmes that are put on are overseen and directed by The Wensleydale Railway Association (Trust) which is the charitable arm of the railway's operating company, Wensleydale Railway PLC.

Michael also met with railway volunteers at Leeming Bar before taking a heritage train down the line to Leyburn .

We were delighted to welcome Michael Portillo and his team to our railway in June last year for a day of filming the Great British Railway Journeys series. Myself and volunteers from our Living History Interpreters team had a lovely time chatting to Michael about our Heritage programme and the fantastic work that we do to bring local history to life. We hope that Michael and his team had a great time travelling on our trains, and learned lots about the history of our railway and our community.” Connor Lagus, Community Engagement Officer at Wensleydale Railway

In a previous newspaper article, Michael had expressed a view that his tv series was very-much about exploring the history of railways and not just about the trains themselves. Michael's genuine passion and enthusiasm for heritage was self-evident during his visit to our railway. Our team loved having the opportunity to share and showcase our rich railway history, restored stations and Yorkshire Dales scenery. The filming of BBC's ‘Great British Railway Journeys' follows on from us being chosen as filming location for ITV's crime drama ‘Vera'. With award-winning restored Edwardian and Victorian stations at Scruton and Leeming Bar, and stunning Yorkshire Dales scenery, our railway has much to offer tv and film production companies as well as our visitors.” Nick Keegan, Fundraising and Marketing Manager at Wensleydale Railway

The Wensleydale Railway operates over 22 miles from Scruton west of Northallerton and runs heritage diesel trains to the edge of the Yorkshire Dales national Park at Leyburn, offering the local community, leisure travellers and tourists a great day out. The railway is also seeking to extend its line to Redmire , information on this can be found at on the Return to Redmire just giving page.

The episode which covers Michael Portillo's visit to the Wensleydale Railway is to be aired on BBC 2 at 6:30pm on Friday 5th April 2024.

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Maybe cos they have already filmed there. Have you seen all the series ?

Goathland to Pickering is on the North Yorkshire Moors railway. It runs from Pickering to Whitby.

Why can’t we see the Goathland to Pickering railway ? Its a beautiful rideand its a very old railway

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Great British Railway Journeys

Michael Portillo travels along the railway networks of Great Britain and Ireland, referring to a Victorian guidebook written by George Bradshaw as he describes how the destinations have chan... Read all Michael Portillo travels along the railway networks of Great Britain and Ireland, referring to a Victorian guidebook written by George Bradshaw as he describes how the destinations have changed. Michael Portillo travels along the railway networks of Great Britain and Ireland, referring to a Victorian guidebook written by George Bradshaw as he describes how the destinations have changed.

• Michael Portillo
• Alex Hutchinson
• 5 User reviews

Episodes 256

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• Trivia For Series 2, each week's five episodes constituted one journey. Episodes Brighton to Crystal Palace (2011) to Dereham to Cromer (2011) formed the first journey, north-eastwards across southern England and East Anglia, from Brighton via London to Cromer. Episodes Ledbury to Shrewsbury (2011) to Llanberis to Holyhead (2011) formed the second journey, westwards across the English Midlands into north Wales, following the route of the historic Irish Mail train, from Ledbury to Holyhead. Episodes Newcastle to Chester-le-Street (2011) to Langley Mill to Melton Mowbray (2011) formed the third journey, southwards across northern England and the Midlands, from Newcastle to Melton Mowbray. Episodes London Bridge to Chatham (2011) to Hythe to Hastings (2011) formed the fourth journey, southwards across southern England to the south coast, from London to Hastings. Episodes Ayr to Paisley (2011) to Lochailort to Skye (2011) formed the fifth journey across Scotland from Ayr to the Isle of Skye.

[introduction to each episode]

Michael Portillo : In 1840, one man transformed travel in Britain. His name was George Bradshaw, and his railway guides inspired the Victorians to take to the tracks. Stop by stop, he told them where to travel, what to see and where to stay. Now, a hundred and seventy years later, I'm making four long journeys across the length and breadth of the country to see what remains of Bradshaw's Britain.

• Connections Featured in The One Show: Episode #7.9 (2012)

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• Mar 4, 2017
• How many seasons does Great British Railway Journeys have? Powered by Alexa
• January 4, 2010 (United Kingdom)
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Great British Railway Journeys: Michael Portillo visits Wensleydale Railway in Yorkshire for 15th series

Michael Portillo visited the Wensleydale Railway for the 15th series of Great British Railway Journeys.

In the April 5 episode of the BBC documentary programme, the former politician and railway enthusiast heads to the Yorkshire Dales to enjoy a trip on the volunteer-run, preserved heritage line.

Portillo visited in June 2023 and rode a train from Leeming Bar to Leyburn, meeting costumed volunteers who offer living history tours of the stations on the route.

Scruton Station has been restored as an Edwardian country station and Leeming Bar recreates the Victorian period.

Wensleydale Railway community engagement officer Connor Lagus said: “We were delighted to welcome Michael Portillo and his team to our railway in June last year for a day of filming the Great British Railway Journeys series. Myself and volunteers from our Living History Interpreters team had a lovely time chatting to Michael about our heritage programme and the fantastic work that we do to bring local history to life.

In the same summer the railway’s Pacer trains were used for the filming of ITV crime drama Vera, which is set in Northumberland.

11 Great British Railway Journeys You Have to Try

• Post author By Isabella Sullivan
• Post date 31st August 2020

Great British railway journeys are, for want of a better word, great. From a day-trip on the Belmond British Pullman and Northern Belle to a cross-country adventure on the Caledonian Sleeper , here are our top picks of the best Great British railway journeys.

1. North Yorkshire Moors Railway

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway (or NYMR as it’s known), is one of Britain’s most scenic railway journeys. The route covers 24 miles through some of North Yorkshire’s most incredible scenery, with guests travelling behind heritage steam locomotives in historic carriages. Everything about this trip evokes nostalgia, from the grandeur of the its Pullman carriages and thrill of being pulled by a steam locomotive, to the quaint station shops and afternoon teas served on board.

The route runs from the ancient market town of Pickering to Whitby on the Yorkshire coast (famous for its delicious seafood), with the whole journey takes around 1 hour, 50mins. Fun fact, the charming village station of Goathland comes next (famous for playing Hogsmeade Station in Harry Potter) is one of the train’s stops. Prices start from £35.

2. Welsh Highland Line

The Welsh Highland Railway runs for 26 miles through Snowdonia National Park and is Britain’s longest heritage railway line. The train departs from Caernarfon, a charming royal town in Gwynedd, Wales, and journeys through Snowdonia climbing from sea level to over 650ft. Passing the foothills of Snowdon, the train then zig-zags down to reach the stunning locations of Beddgelert and the dramatic Aberglaslyn Pass. Allowing for maximum exploration, the train operates a hop-on-hop-off system, with a return ticket valid all day (and for as many rides as you like).

Passengers ride in comfortable carriages and there are even first-class luxury Pullman coaches on the line serving freshly cooked food to your seat. As far as great British railway journeys go, this is pretty spectacular. Prices start at just £10.25.

3. Belmond British Pullman

The Belmond British Pullman is Golden Age of Train travel personified – a luxurious nostalgic journey in lavish Pullman train carriages. Operated by luxury hotel and leisure group Belmond, the train runs daytrips from London around the UK – the perfect way to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or mother’s day. Routes include trips to country houses, cities, castles and sporting events, but the real fun is had on board. Guests can indulge on classic afternoon tea or a signature Golden Age of Travel lunch. There’s even an indulgent dressed-up dinner with a renowned celebrity chef. Fancy yourself as an amateur sleuth? Then don’t miss the train’s exciting Murder Mystery trip. Prices start at £297 per person.

4. Caledonian Sleeper

While we love spending our time simply enjoying a train journey, it’s even better when we can enjoy a train journey and arrive somewhere really useful. This is the Caledonian Sleeper , a premium sleeper train connecting the Scottish Highlands and Edinburgh with London . Board this train at night and enjoy a traditional Scottish dinner (whisky and haggis anyone?) before returning to a modern sleeper compartment with en-suite bathroom (two and four berth options available). Awaken in Edinburgh (or many Scottish destinations) with just enough time to spare for a hot breakfast. This is hands-down the most civilised way to travel between England and Scotland.

5. Night Riviera

Cornwall is one of the prettiest places in Britain, with white sandy beaches, quaint villages, great surf stops and delicious ice cream and pasty eateries. However, it can be tricky to reach for more of the UK. This is where the Night Riviera sleeper train steps in, linking London’s Paddington with Penzance in the Penwith district. The train covers 305 miles overnight with a journey time of eight hours, running every night apart from Saturdays. Operated by Great Western Rail (GWR), the train underwent a refurbishment in 2018 and now boasts premium new sleeper carriages and a stylish lounge car serving good quality food and drink. Prices start at £49.

6. Avon Valley Railway

The  Avon Valley Railway is a very popular three-mile long heritage railway in South Gloucestershire in England. The original line was built back in 1869, but was closed in the 1960s. However, it has since been reopened by a team of railway enthusiasts who amazingly re-laid the tracks and restored some vintage locomotives and carriages so passengers can enjoy a steam train ride along the picturesque Avon Valley. Travellers can choose from taking a day trip on the train or enjoying a two or three course Sunday lunch on traditional railway car, the Pines Express. Other special events held on the train include the Teddy Bear’s Picnic and 1940s weekend and murder mysteries, while rain lovers can book driver experience courses for the opportunity to take the controls on the six-mile trip. Prices start at just £9.

7. Northern Belle

Previously part of the Venice Simplon-Orient Express group, the Northern Belle offers a luxurious train experience around the English, Scottish and Welsh Countryside. Aboard the train, guests can travel to popular events like the Chelsea Flower Show or Royal Ascot, all while enjoying a great dining experience on board. Gaze onto rolling green fields from 1930s carriages, lovingly restored with woodwork and murals. Popular Northern Belle trips include the Classic Afternoon Tea and Murder Mystery lunch trips, giving you the chance to dress up and transport back in time. Tickets start at £210.

8. Bure Valley Railway

The Bure Valley Railway is the best way to explore the pretty market towns of Aylsham and Wroxham, in England’s Norfolk Broads. A popular heritage railway route, the route runs using steam and diesel trains and the whole vibe is friendly and family oriented. Join the train for a one-way journey of an 18-mile round-trip passing by the historic Broadland villages of Brampton, Buxton and Coltishall. You can hop on and off at any time and there are even themed trips throughout the year.

9. Bluebell Railway

The Bluebell Railway is a gorgeous heritage rail route through the luscious Sussex countryside – and one of our favourite train trips in the UK. The train runs every weekend and makes for an amazing day out or way to celebrate a birthday or special occasion. As you chug along by steam train from Sheffield Park to East Grinstead you’ll see lovely villages, fields of bluebells (seasonal) and a bounty of streams and meadows. You can even indulge on afternoon tea, luncheon or a fancy dinner on board.

10. Jacobite Steam Train

Look familiar? That’s because the Jacobite Steam Train had a starring role in Harry Potter as the Hogwarts Express. This famous train rides the Road to the Isles route, a remote and rugged route across the Scottish Highlands. The 84-mile journey is often describes at the greatest railway journey in the world, running from Fort William to Mallaig and back. Ride this train for spectacular views of Ben Nevis, mountain passes and chocolate box villages.

11. Belmond Royal Scotsman

The Belmond Royal Scotsman is one of those once-in-a-lifetime train trips of ultra luxury and priceless memories. The train is a five-star hotel on wheels, and guests are serenaded by Scottish bagpipes as they board in Edinburg bound for the Scottish Highlands. Guests can spend 2-7 nights on board enjoying fine dining, spa treatments, and just watching the stunning Scottish scenery from their large private suite’s picture windows. This journey is truly spectacular.

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• Tags advice , England , inspiration , luxury train travel , Scotland , UK & Ireland , Wales

Whitby By Rail, Explore The North York Moors By Railway From Whitby

We get asked a lot, can you get to Whitby by train? The answer is yes, you can!

Travelling to Whitby by rail is a peaceful and picturesque way to explore and appreciate the magnificent landscapes along the way.

Esk Valley Railway – Middlesbrough to Whitby

Travel from the heart of Middlesbrough to the historic seaside town of Whitby, passing through the North York Moors National Park and pass 17 stations along the route. This 90-minute journey covers 35 miles.

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The Esk Valley Railway connects the rural communities in the North Yorkshire Moors with the city of Middlesbrough and the historic seaside town of Whitby. The railway also offers an enjoyable, environmentally friendly, and stress-free way to view and explore this magnificent landscape and lovely villages.

Further information to help plan your trip:

• For inspiration for days out and things to do along the way visit here.
• Find walking/cycling routes here.
• Information on fares and discounts is available here.
• A calendar of upcoming events is available here.
• Follow their Real Ale Trail, this leaflet gives details of many of the great pubs along the Esk Valley Railway line. Download the PDF here.

Live train times along the Esk Vally are available here .

Route 5: Middlesbrough to Whitby

North York Moors Railway 

The North York Moors heritage railway is one of the best in the world! It takes you on a journey through the heart of the national park and offers spectacular scenery. Stopping at Pickering, Levisham, Newtondale Halt, Goathland Station, Grosmont Station, and Whitby Station. 

For a really memorable journey book yourself a seat and enjoy a day trip packed with stunning scenery. You will totally feel like you are stepping back in time whilst travelling along the 24 miles of magnificent Yorkshire Countryside on one of their steam and heritage diesel trains.

The North York Moors Historical Railway Trust is a not-for-profit charitable organisation run as part of the local community. Day to day operation is carried out by volunteers with railway operations and business experience. 

• Access to great cycling and walking routes (some of which are not accessible by road)
• Special events are held throughout the year – including 60’s Fest, Railway in Wartime, Annual Steam Gala Halloween, and Santa Specials.
• Pullman Dining Train.

Book tickets here.

Pickering Station 

The first stop is Pickering , their 1930s style station. A highlight of Pickering Station is the magnificent roof structure which was recently re-instated to the same design as the original, built-in 1847 by G T Andrews. The station itself is a great place to pick up a souvenir or you can pop into the traditional railway tea room serving tasty meals and snacks.

The historic market town of Pickering still holds its traditional market every Monday. Around the corner from the NYMR is Beck Isle Museum where you can discover the heritage, history, and culture of life in Pickering. Visit Pickering’s 13th-century castle originally built by William the Conqueror and don’t forget to head up to the Market Place to browse the many independent shops.

Download our Pickering Station Worksheet.

Visit here for things to see and do, activities, and nearby trips.

Levisham Station

Next, explore Levisham Station which is surrounded by the North York Moors. Take a trip back in history and experience a 1912 styled railway station. During weekends, bank holidays, and special events the Weighbridge Tea Hut is open serving tasty snacks and drinks to visitors, walkers, and cyclists.

The track across Levisham Moor runs through a landscape rich in archaeological remains – in fact, the moor itself is the largest ancient monument in the North York Moors. Half-hidden in the heather are traces of human occupation stretching back thousands of years, from Bronze Age barrows to late Iron Age boundary dykes. These mounds, ditches, banks, and ridges are evidence of burial sites, fortified farmsteads, enclosures, and field systems – hard to spot at first glance but obvious once identified.

Visit here for things to see and do, walks, and places to eat and drink.

Newtondale Halt (request stop)

Deep in the heart of the North York Moors National Park lies Newtondale Halt . Access to this station can only be made via the NYMR, on foot, or with the assistance of a mountain bike which makes it the perfect place to spot some magnificent wildlife. Just let the guard know you intend to disembark and enjoy exploring the quiet and magnificent woodland.

For more information and walks visit here.

Goathland Station

No trip on North Yorkshire Moors Railways would be complete without a stop at the famous Goathland Station! This is a must-see is the celebrity station that became Hogsmeade Station in the first Harry Potter film and featured as Aidensfield in the ITV programme, Heartbeat.

The charming village of Goathland is just a few minutes walk up the bank from the station, with a great range of shops and pubs . You could explore the national park; embark on a country walk along the Rail Trail back to Grosmont or to the Mallyan Spout Waterfall . Goathland Station has its very own shop and has a tea room which is in a converted 1922 style goods shed.

Grosmont Station

Grosmont Station is home to the operating and engineering world of the NYMR. Here you will find the engine sheds where the steam and diesel locomotives are maintained and restored. Head through the George Stephenson tunnel built in 1835 and you’ll find yourself at the shed shop.

If you are lucky you might also be able to catch a sneaky peak at the work taking place on the engines. The 1952 themed Grosmont Station is the junction where the heritage railway ends and the main rail network begins, connecting both Middlesbrough and Whitby to the NYMR with the Esk Valley Line.

Visit here for things to see and do and walks.

Whitby Station

Steeped in history Whitby is known for its quirky narrow streets and bustling harbour overlooked by the striking ruins of Whitby Abbey . Explore the Captain Cook Memorial Museum , where you can learn about the famous explorer’s life, or visit the Dracula Experience on the seafront.

Staying in Whitby? Climb-on board a heritage train and explore further afield by taking a trip to the market town of Pickering. Trains depart daily from Whitby Railway Station.

Trains from Whitby

Whitby is lucky to have a railway right in the middle of town. Northern Rail trains run to and from Whitby.

Did you see the Great British Railway Journeys documentary on the BBC featuring Whitby, Grosmont & Goathland?

The Great British Railway Journeys is a documentary from the BBC and one particular episode  covers the trip over the North Yorks Moors to Whitby. Learn about Dracula and his connections to Whitby and the history of the rare gemstone Whitby Jet . A great look at what this famous seaside town has to offer. Great British Railway Journeys is a BBC documentary series presented by Michael Portillo. You can watch this episode online here.

Let us know your own experiences of travelling to Whitby by rail. We’d love to hear from you in the comments.

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Great British Railway Journeys : Season 14 Episode 5 Bradford to Hebden Bridge

Michael Portillo continues his post-war exploration of north-west England in Bradford, Shipley and Hebden Bridge. In Centenary Square in Bradford, Michael encounters the literary giant JB Priestley, author of An Inspector Calls.

Our Journeys

Celebrations, scenic train journeys, breathtaking views.

Take in the the great British countryside on a scenic train journey aboard Northern Belle. The inspiring views are perfectly complemented by sumptuous cuisine and fine wine.

Inspiring Destinations

Historic cities, scenic journeys.

You’ll be gracefully transported deep into the heart of Britain’s diverse heritage with trips to historic cities across the country.

Each journey is carefully planned to combine the excitement of travelling aboard the luxury train with interesting visits and guided tours at your chosen destination.

With brunch on the outward journey and a delicious dinner with wine on your return, you will quickly discover why these journeys are so special.

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