A historic dining carriage has returned to service after a decade-long restoration.
Car 79, the oldest Pullman dining coach at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR), will now transport passengers through the countryside as part of the railway’s Autumn Pullman dining services.
Built in 1928, it is the only remaining coach of its kind and the oldest Pullman dining coach at the NYMR.
Laura Strangeway, CEO at the 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.
"The Autumn Pullman services are the perfect opportunity to step back in time whilst travelling on history through the stunning Moors – we hope diners will enjoy the unique character of Car 79 as much as we do."
RECOMMENDED READING:
The restoration project took 10 years and included a full rewire, major roof repairs, replacement of all-new roof side panels, a bogie overhaul, body work repairs, marquetry repairs and varnish, and the replacement of floor, carpets, and upholstery.
Car 79 was part of a 29-coach order for the London and North Eastern Railway (LNER), representing the first British Pullmans made with all-steel construction.
It was taken out of service in 1965 and donated to the South Yorkshire Area Group of the NYMR in 1973, before arriving at the railway in May 1990.
Passengers can now enjoy a three-course meal in the carriage while travelling through the North York Moors.
The menu includes carrot and coriander soup, game terrine, or baked field mushroom to start, followed by roast topside of beef, baked cod loin, or a vegetable and lentil cottage pie.
Dessert options include tiramisu cheesecake, apple strudel, or a selection of cheeses and biscuits, with tea or coffee and handmade chocolates served on the return journey.
The journey departs from Grosmont Station at 12.35pm, travelling 18 miles to Pickering Station and back, with a total experience time of around two hours and 45 minutes.
More details about the Autumn Pullman service and Car 79 can be found at www.nymr.co.uk/pullman.
Share