A HERITAGE railway line which usually closes down during the quiet winter months is breaking its tradition to stay open through December to March 2021.

North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) has confirmed that from December 26, it will be operating The Optimist, a daily service which travels 24-miles along the heritage line from Pickering to Whitby, which has proved hugely popular amongst visitors this year.

Anyone planning on visiting from Boxing Day until January 3 will be able to travel the whole length of the line, through the North York Moors National Park and have time to explore the historic seaside town of Whitby, before embarking on the journey back to Pickering.

If you’re looking to walk off your festive feasting then why not by hopping on The Rail Trail from Grosmont to Goathland which departs twice daily at weekends until January 2, 2021.

Visitors can climb aboard at Grosmont and take a short scenic journey to Goathland, before walking the 3.5mile return journey on a classic walking trail along the original 1836 route of the railway line. Today, the remaining path along the old track gives chance to reflect on the history of the railways as well as an opportunity to enjoy a range of beautiful North York Moors scenery including ancient woodland, fast flowing becks and rolling hills.

From January 4 until February 28, the attraction will also be running one Optimist service and two Rail Trail journeys every Saturday through to Tuesday, with the exception of February 13 to 21, when both services will operate every day, to accommodate family visitors looking for entertainment during the school half term.

To bring the winter season to a close, the attraction will be operating one Optimist and two Rail Trail services every Wednesday through to Sunday from March 1 to 26, 2021. Details of the official 2021 season are yet to be unveiled.

Due to Covid-19 control measures and to help the railway maintain capacity, pre-booking on all services is essential, so book now by visiting nymr.co.uk.

A number of measures have been implemented, including limiting capacity on trains, ‘fogging’ carriages and public spaces, enhanced cleaning regimes, hand sanitiser stations and contactless payments.

Visitors are also asked to maintain social distancing whilst visiting the railway, wear a face covering whilst moving around the railway and on the train and when seated on board the train (these may be removed whilst seated in a compartment).