All aboard for festive cheer: York's Christmas magic awaits by steam.

We're offering you a festive steam train journey to York's Christmas markets, saving you 32% off Vintage Trains Ltd's prices.

A one-day-only festive escape by steam, 2nd December 2026

Let the magic of steam and the spirit of Christmas whisk you away on a scenic day trip through the East Midlands to the historic city of York. Enjoy a nostalgic journey aboard a steam-hauled Castle Class locomotive, culminating in the twinkling beauty of York's award-winning Christmas markets.

What's included:

• Return travel on a steam-hauled vintage train, choice of Standard or First Class.
• Standard ticket: comfortable seating at tables of four with picture windows, plus access to an onboard buffet for hot and soft drinks, light refreshments and alcoholic drinks. Bacon rolls and afternoon tea in a box can be pre-ordered for your journey.
• First Class ticket: travel in authentic 1960s coaches, with bacon rolls and pastries for breakfast and a festive afternoon tea on the return journey included.
• Choice of five departure points across the East Midlands.

Timings and departure points:

Station	Departs	Returns
Birmingham New Street	08:56	21:03
Coleshill Parkway	09:16	20:43
Tamworth	09:39	20:14
Burton-on-Trent	09:57	19:34
Derby	10:16	19:15

York: arrives 12:26, departs 16:15.

All timings are approximate and subject to change - please check your booking confirmation.

Discover York's festive magic:

• Explore York's award-winning Christmas markets, packed with stalls, lights and seasonal treats.
• Wander the medieval Shambles and the city's cobbled streets.
• Marvel at York Minster, a stunning Gothic cathedral in the heart of the city.
• Discover Roman, Viking and medieval history within York's 13th-century walls.
• Visit family-friendly attractions including the Jorvik Centre and the National Railway Museum.

Upgrade your experience:

• First Class: travel in classic 1960s coaches with breakfast and festive afternoon tea included.
• Tables for two: available on First Class for a supplement of £20 per person, subject to availability.

Perfect for:

• A magical, one-day-only Christmas tradition.
• Families, couples or groups looking for a festive day out.
• Steam railway and heritage enthusiasts.
• A memorable gift for a loved one.

Please note: price is per ticket, with a 6% booking fee at checkout. For price comparisons, visit Vintage Trains.

FAQs

• Is food included in my ticket?
  Standard tickets offer bacon rolls or afternoon tea for pre-order; First Class includes breakfast and afternoon tea.
• Can I book a table for two?
  Yes, on First Class tickets, for a supplement of £20 per person, subject to availability.
• Where does the journey depart from, and when?
  Choose from five East Midlands departure points: Birmingham New Street, Coleshill Parkway, Tamworth, Burton-on-Trent or Derby, with morning departures and evening returns as detailed above.

Check out our other related deals:

• Christmas shop
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