Venture into the North York Moors during Christmas and you may think you’ve wandered onto the front of a Christmas card. With its frost-covered hills and quaint villages, there’s no place quite like it for a festive getaway. Whether you’re looking for festive fun with the kids or a cosy escape with a loved one, the Moors have something special for you.
A Yuletide train ride
Kids will love the Santa Specials on the North York Moors Railway. This magical train ride takes you through the scenic moors – perfect distraction while the anticipation builds to meet Santa. It’s a fun and festive experience that brings Christmas to life for children and adults alike.
Couples can enjoy a peaceful and charming journey with a Christmas Afternoon Tea on the same railway. With delicious treats and a beautiful winter landscape outside, it’s a cosy and classy way to celebrate the season. If you want to make it extra special, you can book a three-course Christmas meal in the Pullman Dining Carriage.
Festivals and markets
Many of the towns and villages dotted around the Moors hold Christmas markets and festivals, and they’re all well worth a visit.
The Whitby Christmas Market & Festival (Friday 15th – Sunday 17th November) is a great outing for families, with plenty of local crafts, festive treats, and musical performances. Malton holds its Christmas Festival on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th December. Visit the ‘foodie capital of the north’ if festive indulgence is your thing – perfect for families and couples alike.
A Christmas Carol promenade
While you’re in Malton, be sure to try this unique Christmas experience. From 3rd to 23rd December, you and your family can enjoy an immersive performance of A Christmas Carol, which is returning after selling out for the past three years. This version of Dickens’ classic tale is a ‘promenade’ show, so you’ll walk to different parts of the town as the story progresses. Your ticket also includes a festive feast afterwards.
Winter walks and stargazing
Whether you’re on a family adventure or a romantic retreat, nothing beats a winter walk in the North York Moors. The crisp air and frost-covered landscapes are refreshing and beautiful, and you’re spoilt for choice with hiking trails suitable for all ages and abilities.
And the magic doesn’t end when the sun goes down. The Moors are one of the world’s only official Internation Dark Sky Reserves. And winter is when the skies are clearest. Tilt your head skyward and see the stars as you’ve never seen them before.
Curl up in front of the log fire
Christmas in the North York Moors is full of fun, wonder, and special moments for both families and couples. And there’s no better way to round off a day of winter wandering than cosying up together in front of our log burner at The Moors Church, warming yourself with a hot chocolate (or perhaps something stronger for the grown-ups).
Our converted church is a truly unique accommodation, and the newly renovated kitchen and bathroom and underfloor heating ensure that comfort matches the character.
Scroll down to the ‘Book now’ button to check our availability for November and December. Your Christmas adventure awaits!