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limbing aboard this old steam train, might give you a sense of déjà vu. That’s because it’s been featured in all the Harry Potter films.

But even if you haven’t seen these ‘classics’, you’ll still feel the magic as the gentle puff of the steam engine pulls you along past wild heather flowers – which blanket the landscape in violet during the summer.

Pickering Station, with its 1930s décor, is a good place to stop for tea – and one of their traditional Yorkshire pies. But, for a more sophisticated meal, stay on board the Pullman and recreate the Agatha Christie experience (minus the murders) with Sole Thermidor and Prawn and Pâté Campagne – part of the Yorkshireman Dinners menu.

The retro theme continues when you reach Whitby’s La Rosa Hotel, at the end of the line. According to the shiny blue plaque, number 5, East Terrace is where Lewis Carroll boarded during his trips to this seaside town.

And if you’re really keen you can stay in a room recreated to look the his study (complete with telescope). If not, try the Crowe’s Nest, with its pirate shower curtain and nautical kitsch. Old fashioned certainly isn’t dull around here.