 The line left Gilling station in an easterly direction for before diverging from the T&M route and going due north to Nunnington and then north westerly to Helmsley.At Helmsley the line curved almost 180 degrees to go east across the southern edge of the North Yorkshire Moors and calling at Nawton, Kirkbymoorside and Sinnington.The line was single throughout with passing loops in Helmsley and Kirbymoorside stations.