Grosmont combines railway history with walks that differ in length and route. When planning your stay, you might therefore consider whether to allow more time for railway technology, historic sites or a walking route. At Grosmont Station, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway meets the regular railway network; beyond the railway facilities, trails lead through the history of the railway and industry.

Experience and understand the railway

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway’s locomotive sheds are at Grosmont Station. Steam and diesel locomotives are maintained and restored there. The railway offers tours of the sheds, which also introduce visitors to the work of the Motive Power Depot and its site. These tours are available seasonally. If you would like to experience the line yourself, you could consider a 36-mile journey on the footplate of a historic diesel locomotive: the journey covers 18 miles in each direction between Grosmont and Pickering. Dates and availability are also seasonal.

Via the Esk Valley Line, the station is where the North Yorkshire Moors Railway connects with the regular railway network. The area’s railway history also includes the George Stephenson Tunnel, built in 1835, and the former Falsgrave Signal Gantry. The latter is still actively used at the station as an example of historic railway signalling. The railway heritage thus encompasses both the present-day maintenance of locomotives and preserved structures and signalling equipment.

Two trails with different routes

The 3.5-mile Rail Trail runs from Grosmont via Beck Hole to Goathland, following Stephenson’s original railway line. Information along the way covers evidence of mining and industrial heritage. Another option is the 4¾-mile Grosmont to Beck Hole Walk: this circular route passes through woods known for their bluebells and follows the historic Whitby to Pickering Railway. It goes through Beck Hole and then follows the Murk Esk back to Grosmont.

Length and route are clear points of difference when choosing between the two trails: the Rail Trail continues as far as Goathland, while the circular walk returns to Grosmont. The subjects along the routes also vary, from the former railway line to woodland and river scenery. You can plan according to whether you prefer a trail with a further destination or a circular route.

Industrial history and preserved sites

Grosmont Ironworks stood on the site of today’s National Park car park. This major industrial complex produced almost 1,000 tonnes of pig iron a week. Plants such as Twayblade and Sickle Medick have since become established on the former site. Industrial history and today’s plant life therefore share the same former location.

At Esk Valley Mine, also known as Holme House Mine, two rows of miners’ cottages, the manager’s house, a small chapel and cottages belonging to tradespeople have been preserved. A path from the Rail Trail was created to provide public access to the mine for the first time; information and a sculpture explain its history, operations and community. Check current access arrangements before visiting.

St Matthew’s Church also adds to the picture of local history. Built between 1873 and 1875, it was consecrated on 6 August 1875 and is a protected Grade II listed building. The Post Office and Attached Outbuildings was built around 1835 for the Whitby and Pickering Railway Company. The two buildings reflect different historical associations: ecclesiastical architecture and the former railway company.

Visiting and dining

Geall Gallery is an open working studio. Visitors can watch Chris Geall at work and talk with him about his techniques. Opening arrangements may change, so check before your visit.

For a meal, the NYMR Pullman Dining Service serves food in one of the first-class carriages at Grosmont Station; availability may vary. The station’s refreshment room serves seasonal drinks, homemade desserts and freshly prepared meals. Opening depends on the line’s operating schedule and the time of year.

Discover more destinations: Crayke, Stearsby, Spofforth, Goathland, Bedale, Thwaite, Sandsend, Low Row.

Back to the main travel overview: North Yorkshire.