North Yorkshire Moors Railway welcomes back historic Pullman Car 79 after 10-year restoration
The North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) has announced the long-awaited return of Car 79, following the 10-year-task of restoring it to its former glory, with another full overhaul in 2026.
No. 79 was built in 1928, and is the oldest Pullman dining coach at the NYMR, and the only one of its type remaining.
Diners on board the Autumn Pullman services (running until November 4) will get the first opportunity to enjoy the fully-restored carriage, while tucking into a hearty Yorkshire three-course meal as they pass through the stunning North York Moors.
Car 79 was part of an order for 29 Cars - the first British Pullmans of all-steel construction for use on the LNER.
Until 1965, No. 79 ran on various Pullman services and in 1973 was donated to the South Yorkshire Area Group of the NYMR when the long task of restoration began - the car then came to the NYMR in May 1990.
While at the NYMR, Car 79 has had major roof repairs including replacement of all-new roof side panels, bogie overhaul, body work repairs, a full rewire, marquetry repairs and varnish, floor, carpets and upholstery replacement to restore it to its former glory.
Laura Strangeway, CEO at NYMR, said: “Car 79 is a truly special part of the NYMR heritage, so it’s incredibly exciting to see this beautifully restored carriage return to service.
"The scale and craftsmanship involved in the project has been remarkable, and we’re so glad passengers can now experience it for themselves.
"We hope diners will enjoy the unique character of Car 79 as much as we do.”
Diners have the option of starting their meal with a choice of Chef's Homemade Carrot and Coriander Soup, Game Terrine or Baked Field Mushroom.
Main course offers include Roast Topside of Beef, Baked Cod Loin or Vegetable & Lentil Cottage Pie.
Then, it's an indulgent decision of a Tiramisu Cheesecake, Apple Strudel, or a Selection of Cheeses & Biscuits, finishing with tea or coffee and hand-made chocolates on the return journey.
Passengers depart Grosmont Station at 12.35pm, travelling along the 18-mile line to Pickering Station, and returning to Grosmont.
The total experience time is approximately two hours 45 minutes.
Visit https://www.nymr.co.uk/pullman to find out more about the Autumn Pullman and Car 79.