Don't panic!  Let the steam train take the strain!

Avoid petrol pump chaos with the North Yorkshire Moors Railway

It may be April Fool’s Day this weekend, but the huge queues at petrol stations are no joke, which is why the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) is encouraging those heading to the Yorkshire Coast to travel by steam train this weekend, using its steam trains as a Park ‘n’ Ride service!

“Whenever the sun comes out, the roads get increasingly busy as people head to the coast, but with petrol not only very expensive, but also in short supply at some filling stations, anyone heading to Whitby from York or Leeds can simply stop off at Pickering station, park up their car and then enjoy a scenic railway ride up to the coast on one of our traditional trains,” says Danielle Bradley, NYMR’s marketing manager.

The steam-powered Park ‘n’ Ride recreates the holidays of many older people, when trains to resorts such as Whitby and Scarborough were packed with holidaymakers at a time before a car became a household essential.

“For most youngsters, the holiday started as soon as they boarded the train and they knew where they were heading, and a ride on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway can do much the same thing – no hunting around for a car parking space when you arrive on the coast, and the journey by train is more picturesque and relaxing than travelling by car,” adds Danielle. “You even get to see the station used for filming Hogsmeade in the first Harry Potter film, and travel through the best parts of Heartbeat country on the way!”

This weekend marks the start of daily services between Pickering and Whitby, with the first train departing from Pickering at 9.00am, and the last leaving Whitby for the return journey at 5.00pm, enabling visitors to spend a full day on the coast. Whitby’s station is at the heart of the town, just a few yards away from its famous harbour.

Similarly, anyone holidaying in Whitby who is hoping to explore the beautiful North York Moors national park can get on a train and head into the heart of the countryside, ideal for Easter walks. Dogs are welcome on the train, too, for anyone taking advantage of Whitby’s canine-friendly accommodation.

If the fuel strike does go ahead, NYMR is ready and prepared, with full stocks of coal and diesel to keep its heritage engines running. Fares are £22.50 for adults, £19.50 for seniors and £11.50 for children for a day rover ticket allowing unlimited travel between Pickering and Whitby with a chance to stop off at Levisham, Goathland and Grosmont Station along the way. A family ticket (two adults and up to four children) is available for just £45.00. Children under five ride free.

For more information on visits to the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, please call 01751 472508, visit www.nymr.co.uk or follow us on Twitter @NYMR or Facebook @North Yorkshire Moors Railway

ENDS

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