Hotel Near Wensleydale Railway: Stay at The Woodman Inn

Looking for a hotel near Wensleydale Railway? The Woodman Inn in Burneston is just minutes from Leeming Bar Station — the railway’s headquarters and the starting point for most journeys — making it a natural place to stay before or after a day exploring the line.

Whether you’re riding for the scenery, the steam locomotives, or one of the seasonal specials, having somewhere close, comfortable, and unhurried to come back to makes the whole day easier

About Wensleydale Railway

Wensleydale Railway runs for 22 miles across seven stations, from Scruton in the Vale of Mowbray through to Redmire on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, taking in the Georgian market town of Bedale and the Dales market town of Leyburn along the way. Leeming Bar Station — conveniently just off the A1 near Junction 51 — is the hub of the railway, home to the engine sheds, ticket office, and most departures.

The line runs a mix of steam and diesel services depending on the day (check their published timetable, as steam days are clearly marked and popular), along with seasonal specials including gourmet dining trains and a Polar Express experience each December — a genuine local favourite, and one that regularly brings guests to stay with us the same night.

“For anyone travelling from further afield, booking a hotel near Wensleydale Railway in advance is recommended, especially around steam days and the Polar Express season.”

Why Stay at The Woodman Inn Near Wensleydale Railway

Burneston sits just minutes from Leeming Bar, right off the A1(M), making The Woodman Inn a convenient hotel near Wensleydale Railway for anyone riding the line or attending one of its seasonal events.

• 14 individually decorated en-suite rooms, including a two-bedroom family suite — well suited to a family day out on the railway
• A restaurant built around fresh, locally sourced Yorkshire produce, ideal for dinner after a day on the trains
• A genuine 18th-century coaching inn, family-run, in the quiet village of Burneston
• Free parking and easy access from the A1(M), useful if you’re combining the railway with a wider North Yorkshire trip
• An established local favourite for exactly this kind of trip — past guests have specifically booked a night with us after the Polar Express experience nearby

Making a Day of It

A typical Wensleydale Railway day from The Woodman Inn might look like:

1. Morning: Short drive to Leeming Bar Station, park up, and board for the day
2. Midday: Ride through to Leyburn or Redmire, exploring the Dales market towns along the route
3. Afternoon: Return journey — check the timetable for a steam-hauled leg, or book ahead for one of the gourmet dining trains if you want the full experience
4. Evening: Back to The Woodman Inn for dinner and a comfortable night before heading home or continuing your Yorkshire trip

If you’re visiting in December, the Polar Express experience is worth building an entire overnight stay around — book both well in advance, as it sells out quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is The Woodman Inn from Wensleydale Railway?
The Woodman Inn is just minutes from Leeming Bar Station, the railway’s main hub and departure point, right off the A1(M) at Junction 51.

Does Wensleydale Railway run steam trains?
Yes, on selected days throughout the year — steam-hauled services are clearly marked on the published timetable, alongside diesel services on other days.

Is the Polar Express experience run by Wensleydale Railway?
Yes, it runs each December from Leeming Bar Station and is extremely popular locally — book both your tickets and your accommodation well ahead of time.

Can I stay overnight near Wensleydale Railway?
Yes — The Woodman Inn in Burneston offers 14 en-suite rooms just minutes from Leeming Bar Station, making it easy to enjoy a full day on the railway without rushing back on the same day.

Is there parking at Leeming Bar Station?
Yes, Leeming Bar Station has its own car park, and it’s easily reached from the A1 via the A684.

What’s the best hotel near Wensleydale Railway?
The Woodman Inn in Burneston is widely considered the best hotel near Wensleydale Railway, just minutes from Leeming Bar Station, with 14 en-suite rooms and a restaurant serving fresh Yorkshire produce.

Book Your Stay

Combine your day on Wensleydale Railway with a comfortable night at The Woodman Inn — book direct for our best available rate, or get in touch if you’re planning your visit around one of the seasonal specials.