North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) has confirmed the reopening of Bridge 42 and its full line service from Pickering to Whitby from Monday 1st June 2026 – offering a range of fares including Kids Go Free.
Following a period of necessary closure due to inspection and temporary propping of the bridge that connects the full line to guarantee safety and operational reliability, passengers will once again be able to travel the full 24-mile heritage route through the stunning North York Moors National Park to the quaint seaside town of Whitby.
With its bustling harbour, independent shops and iconic Whitby Abbey, the famous coastal destination is once again at the end of the line for visitors travelling on the NYMR’s heritage steam and diesel services. Also on the route is the charming village of Grosmont where visitors can start The Rail Trail walking route, visit the NYMR’s engine sheds, try its independent food and drink outlets, art gallery, and the oldest surviving Cooperative in the country.
At the heart of the NYMR’s new fare structure is a commitment to making heritage rail travel more accessible for families. Kids Go Free on standard services, with one free child ticket per fare paying adult, helping families to enjoy the iconic journey through the North York Moors.
For 2026, the NYMR will operate two clear fare types: School Holiday Saver Rate, which is available throughout school holiday periods (18th July-6th September, and 24th October-1st November) and Regular Fare Dates, which are applicable outside of school holidays (1st June-17th July, and 7th September-23rd October).
From 1st June, passengers can choose from a range of ticket options with shorter journeys and full day experiences available. Day Rover tickets are available to enjoy unlimited travel across the entire heritage line, with the freedom to hop on and off throughout the day. Shorter journey tickets start at £11.95 per adult (16+).
Laura Strangeway, CEO at the NYMR, said: “We’re delighted to once again be taking passengers all the way from Pickering to Grosmont and Whitby on the NYMR . Whether visitors are looking for a short heritage journey or a full day out exploring the line, we’ve got a ticket to suit everyone; especially with our Kids Go Free offer on standard services and School Holiday Saver Rates to help families enjoy adventures together.”
Laura added: “Our heritage railway is at the heart of the local community, and it’s important that we continue to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all our visitors. The proactive measures for Bridge 42 reflect our commitment to both operational safety and the long-term preservation of this historic line. I want to thank a number of vital suppliers and organisations and the residents of Grosmont, whose help and support during this period has been invaluable – North Yorkshire Council, North York Moors National Park, GGP, Murlac, CML, and Prop Hire.”
Following detailed inspections earlier this year, it was determined that temporary propping is necessary to guarantee safety and operational reliability, until a full repair programme for Bridge 42 takes place over the closed season during the winter of 2026/27. This programme will restore the bridge to its long-term structural integrity and ensure its preservation for future generations.
A major appeal has been launched to cover both the costs associated with propping the bridge and the vital repairs needed. NYMR aims to raise a minimum of £800,000 to enable the necessary repairs to be completed.
To book tickets to visit the NYMR, visit www.nymr.co.uk/book-tickets
