Mad Alice’s Ghost Train offers supernatural storytelling journey through haunted moorlands
The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is venturing into uncharted territory this autumn with the launch of Mad Alice’s Ghost Train, a spine-tingling new experience that promises to reveal the darker, supernatural side of the famous heritage line.
Running on select dates in October and November, the immersive event marks the first time the award-winning railway has offered visitors a chance to explore the haunted legends of the North Yorkshire moors. The experience is led by Mad Alice, the notorious storyteller behind York’s popular Bloody Tour.
A Journey into Darkness
The ghost train experience takes passengers on a atmospheric journey from Pickering to Levisham and back, transforming the familiar heritage railway into a portal for supernatural encounters. Live actors will bring ghostly tales to life throughout the journey, while passengers learn about the mysterious spirits said to still haunt the railway’s carriages and stations.
The evening’s entertainment includes live storytelling from Mad Alice herself, supernatural folklore drawn from across the moors, and a dramatic performance of Charles Dickens’ “The Signalman” – a ghost story inspired by a deadly train crash the author witnessed firsthand.
Charlotte Hawes, Events Manager at the NYMR, expressed enthusiasm for the railway’s supernatural debut. “We’re incredibly excited to launch Mad Alice’s Ghost Train – it’s unlike anything we’ve done before,” she said. “Combining gothic storytelling, the unique setting of our historic railway, and the legends of the moors creates something truly special. It’s a chance to see the NYMR in a whole new light.”
Atmospheric Setting Perfect for Ghost Stories
Mad Alice emphasized the natural connection between the moorland railway and supernatural storytelling. “I’m looking forward to bringing these stories to life on the historic railway on the beautiful North York Moors where myths and legends interweave with the landscape,” she said. “There are some great ghost stories to be told and this will be the perfect setting.”
The storyteller added a playful warning about potential supernatural interference: “I expect the real ghosts of the carriages may even put their own spin on the night’s events… anything can happen. If that’s the case, we do have some gin from York Gin to steady your nerves!”
Event Details and Booking
The ghost train experience is scheduled for October 19 and 26, plus November 2, with two departure times each evening: 6:00-7:00 PM and 7:45-8:45 PM. Adult passengers aged 18 and over will receive a complimentary mini Mad Alice York Gin & Tonic, courtesy of York Gin, with soft drink alternatives available.
Tickets are priced at £40 for adults and £35 for under-18s, with a minimum age requirement of 14 years. Early bird discounts are available for a limited time, and bookings can be made through the railway’s website at www.nymr.co.uk/ghosttrain.
About the Railway
The North Yorkshire Moors Railway operates as a charitable trust and ranks among Britain’s most popular heritage railways, welcoming approximately 250,000 passengers annually. The railway runs heritage services from Pickering to Grosmont and continues over Network Rail to Whitby, making it one of the top visitor attractions in the North East.
As a fully accredited museum and Educational Charitable Trust, the NYMR is committed to preserving railway heritage while delivering authentic steam age experiences. The railway is participating in Railway 200 celebrations in 2025, marking two centuries of railway history alongside other heritage lines across the country.
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