Running between 28 March and 12 April, North Yorkshire Moors Railway is set to host a range of family-friendly activities at its historic stations in Pickering and Goathland. Visitors can look forward to fun-filled days where special activities blend play, learning, and creativity, while supporting the railway’s Bridge 42 Appeal.

Young visitors and their families can take part in an Easter Scavenger hunt, where colourful easter eggs can be discovered around Pickering and Goathland stations. Each egg reveals a mystery letter, with visitors who can solve the puzzle up for a chance to win an Easter Egg. Happening between 28 March and 12 April.

Under 5’s have the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed Station and Play session, with foam blocks, tunnels and train tracks, musical train toys, and a Cosy Corner sensory area with space for quiet play and stories. Tickets are £3 per child, running on 1 April, 9:30 – 11 am.

Station Storytime invites families to enjoy a reading of Apil Jones’ 21 Elephants and Still Standing, the true story of P.T Barnum leading 21 elephants over the Brooklyn Bridge. Following the story, children are invited to explore and create different types of bridges. Station Storytime is free to join, but booking is advised. Taking place on 8 April, 10:30 – 11:30 am.

The Build a Bridge Challenge allows young visitors to show off their engineering skills with the challenge of constructing a bridge strong enough to allow a model train to pass below. The event runs between 3 and 9 April, 9:30 to 4:30.

Booking is advised to ensure a spot at the activities, with ticket fees and donations going towards the North Yorkshire Moors Railway’s efforts to restore its 180 year old grade 2 listed rail bridge.

“Our Easter activities are designed to bring families together through play, storytelling, and discovery. Whether visitors are exploring our stations as part of the scavenger hunt or taking on an engineering challenge inspired by real railway heritage, there is something for everyone. There are several events to support the ongoing Bridge 42 Appeal, helping visitors connect with the railway’s preservation work in a creative and engaging way.”

Rhiannon Hope, Learning & Interpretation Lead at the NYMR.