Mad Alice's Ghost Train Halloween & Christmas
Festival

Mad Alice's Ghost Train Halloween & Christmas

18 October 2026 – 1 November 2026
North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Mad Alice's Ghost Train is a seasonal event held on October 18, 2026, aboard the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. The evening journeys are themed around Halloween and filled with spooky stories told by performers throughout the train carriages, creating an eerie atmosphere for passengers. The trains are decorated to match the Halloween mood, enhancing the sense of stepping into a ghostly tale as you travel through the moors after dusk. Suitable for families with older children and anyone intrigued by folklore and ghost stories, the event combines railway heritage with a festive occasion. Passengers can enjoy a mix of storytelling, ambient sounds, and atmospheric lighting as they journey along a historic steam railway line. The setting itself, the expansive moorland and period carriages, helps bring the spooky stories to life, offering a night of uniquely themed entertainment. The event is ticketed and popular, so early reservation is recommended. It’s one of the ways the North Yorkshire Moors Railway celebrates the seasonal calendar beyond their usual scenic trips.

Tips for Attending

  • •Arrive early to soak up the atmosphere on the station platform before boarding.
  • •Bring warm layers as the train can get chilly in the evening.
  • •Prepare for dim lighting inside the carriages which adds to the spooky effect but may not be suitable for very young children.
  • •Check the age recommendations as some stories might be unsettling for little ones.
  • •Consider combining your trip with a daytime ride on the railway to see the moors by daylight.

Practical Information

Budget: Tickets usually range from £20 to £35 per person depending on seating class.. Duration: The journey lasts approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, including time for storytelling and onboard entertainment.. Food Drink: Refreshments may be available at the station before departure, but there are limited options on the train itself. Bringing a small snack and drink is recommended.. What To Wear: Dress warmly and comfortably with layers. Waterproof outerwear is advisable in case of late autumn weather.. Getting There: The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is accessible by car with parking available at several stations. Regular train service runs to Pickering, the southern terminus, from where you can connect via shuttle bus or taxi.. Booking Advice: Tickets must be booked in advance through the North Yorkshire Moors Railway website as the event is popular and tickets sell out quickly.

Best For

Families with older childrenFans of ghost storiesRailway enthusiastsSeasonal event seekers

Venue

North Yorkshire Moors Railway

North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Pickering, North Yorkshire

Activities During the Festival

Attending Mad Alice's Ghost Train Halloween & Christmas? Make the most of your visit with these recommended activities.

Gothic cathedral with tall spires and arched stonework lit by warm sunset light
Editor's Pick
Walking Tours
Viator
(3 reviews)

The “Capital of the North”, founded by the Roman Empire in 1st century AD, the walled city of York is living history. Come with us to get the insight of York Minster, the 13th-century Gothic cathedral, Jórvík Viking Centre, and other examples of this city’s troublesome past, and for an insider view of modern York.

From
€334
per group
View →
Weathered gravestone of John Palmer aka Richard Turpin in leafy churchyard
Ghost & Dark Tours
Viator
(2 reviews)

Explore York’s Dark side in our York Horrors and Haunts smartphone guided walking tour. You’ll be guided step by step to the sites where pure horror took place and hear the history and mayhem that occurred here. And you’ll hear about a few ghosts that linger. Go at your own pace. Stop anytime. Go anytime-1pm or 1am. Professionally narrated and infused with sound effects and music to set the mood. Be guided step by step using location aware walking tour technology. This is a hands-free experience, so feel free to keep your phones in your pocket and your eyes wide open. Go anytime, 24/7. And listen again anytime. The tour never expires. It’s yours!

From
€8
per group
View →
Group of five people in jackets standing near stone building on a cloudy day in York
Walking Tours
Viator
(2 reviews)

Get your bearings and explore York like a local on this exclusive private walking tour, led by an expert guide. More than just a history lesson, this immersive experience brings the city’s rich past to life as you stroll through its cobbled streets, ancient walls, and hidden corners. Step back in time to Viking-age Jorvik, walk in the footsteps of Romans along the city’s famous walls, and uncover how York evolved from a medieval religious center to the vibrant, historic gem it is today. From grand landmarks to tucked-away treasures, your guide will share the stories that make York unique.

From
€186
per group
View →
narrow cobblestone street in york with timber-framed buildings and hanging signs under a blue sky
Walking Tours
Viator
(1 review)

Your private tour starts opposite Clifford's Tower outside Castle Museum, where the former officer-guide will give you insight into York’s lengthy criminal history, up until the present day. Hear tales of the serial killer known as the Yorkshire Ripper, the unusual dealings at the York Magistrates Court and the old police station where police officers first started working from in 1892. Hear about the stories of dark dealings along the River Ouse, as you make your way to Dick Turpin’s grave site. Wander down The Shambles, one of the city’s 14th-century streets, which lent its likeness to several Harry Potter films, including where Harry and his friends hid from the Death eaters. Your guide will tell you of the abounding mysteries in the city’s sites which have stood for more than 2000 years, one of the world’s oldest police forces and of the city’s oldest inhabited house.

From
€121
per group
View →
grass lawn with leafless trees and benches beside large stone cathedral under cloudy sky
Editor's Pick
Walking Tours
Viator
(2 reviews)

York is amazing. King George VI once said, 'The history of York is the history of England'. Well he wasn't wrong. The city has been home to Romans, Saxons, Vikings and Normans. It has been the 'capital' of the north and has been a centre for trade, commerce and power through the centuries. Today York is a vibrant, modern city with one of the best windows on the past that you will ever find. Join me on a tour of my fascinating home city to learn more about its history and what has made it the city it is today. Walk in the footsteps of Roman soldiers and marauding Vikings, pass through medieval streets, stand in the shadow of one of the world's great cathedrals and take in the view from the city walls.

From
€128
per group
View →
Two women stand smiling beside a person dressed as an old witch holding a staff on a sunny street
Editor's Pick
Ghost & Dark Tours
Viator
10.0/10
(30 reviews)

Delve into the eerie history of York with the Witch Walk, a 90-minute guided tour led by the enigmatic Ragnell Hagathorn. This engaging adventure weaves together haunting tales of witches, ghosts, and other supernatural elements, perfect for both thrill-seekers and families. As you stroll through the historic streets, expect a blend of folklore, humor, and theatrical storytelling that brings the dark past of York to life. Suitable for ages 8 and up, this family-friendly tour ensures a captivating experience for all. The walk operates rain or shine, so dress for the weather and prepare for a memorable evening. Guided walking tour lasting approximately 90 minutes Family-friendly and suitable for ages 8 and above Experience ghost stories alongside folklore and theatrical elements Begins at St. Helen’s Square, York at 7:30 PM

From
€17
per group
View →
Group of people listening to a guide near a grassy mound with a stone tower on top during daytime
Walking Tours
Viator
10.0/10
(13 reviews)

Discover York's vibrant Viking history on this engaging 90-minute walking tour. Beginning opposite the iconic Jorvik Viking Centre, this tour combines history, comedy, and mythology for a unique family-friendly experience. Perfect for all ages, you'll delve into the fascinating tales of York's Viking past while enjoying a few laughs along the way. Join a knowledgeable guide who brings the stories to life and allows you to explore the city's rich heritage in an entertaining manner. 90-minute walking tour focusing on York's Viking history Starts at the Jorvik Viking Centre for easy access A mix of comedy and mythology makes it enjoyable for everyone Family-friendly activity suitable for all ages

From
€15
per person
View →
historic gothic cathedral with tall spires and large stained glass windows under a blue sky
Editor's Pick
Walking Tours
Viator
(2 reviews)

Step into the city’s ancient walls, and meander through several thousand years of history on a private walking tour. As you walk the city walls, marvel in the spectacular views of York Minster, Northern Europe’s largest cathedral and an architectural masterpiece that emits a radiating glow over the city. See where Guy Fawkes was born, now a pub with his namesake. Discover one of the world’s best-preserved medieval streets as mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 and admire the medieval Clifford's tower, the largest remaining part of York Castle. Guildhall is located beyond the Mansion House, and is an imposing first Grade I listed 15th pile situated on the River Ouse. The tour finishes at The Star Inn, an old engine house, which sits on the edge of the Museum Gardens by the River Ouse.

From
€251
per group
View →

Where to Stay

Places to stay near North Yorkshire Moors Railway

View all places to stay