Our adventure starts at Harrogate Station early afternoon. On arrival we board our coach for the short transfer into town and a “prosecco afternoon tea” at the world-famous Betty’s Tea Rooms. Then, on route to the hotel, we pop in a Newby Hall which has lovely gardens best viewed from the narrow-gauge railway running in the grounds.

Our focus this morning is the Wensleydale Railway running between Leeming Bar and Leyburn through delightful rural scenery. Our local contacts will enhance this visit with something exclusively for us. More gorgeous views are enjoyed from the coach before we set down in historic Richmond allowing time to explore independently. The afternoon visit is rather special as we discover the little known Stainmore Railway Company, steaming up especially for us, an absolute gem!

Some local stuff today focusing on the Stockton and Darlington Railway. We start in Darlington at the North Road Railway Museum and then take a train to Shildon. Here is the National Railway Museums overspill collection which is laid out in a large modern building perfect for photography. After our visit we continue up the branch line to Bishop Aukland and join the Weardale Railway for an afternoon of heritage railway action in the Dale.

This is the holiday highlight for sure as we climb into, and across, the North Yorkshire Moors to join the heritage railway of the same name. A little time in Whitby is allowed before we join the Pullman Sunday Lunch Train. A truly special experience as we are served at seat during 24 miles of glorious upland scenery – what a treat!

A traditional Yorkshire finale day starts with special arrangements at the fascinating Herriot Museum before a tour of the Theakston’s Brewery. Lunch is included today in an old goods shed before we transfer to Northallerton Station for homeward bound trains.