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Discover the magic of the British Isles

ClassicClassic
Tresco Abbey Gardens
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
9 days from £2,699 pp
  • Stay in 4-Star hotels in both an elegant townhouse and renovated historic landmark
  • Tour St Mary’s Island with a local guide and explore the paradisial Tresco Abbey Garden
  • Experience the wild beauty of St Agnes and St Martin’s, idyllic islands untouched by time
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ClassicClassic
Highland Adventure
Highland Adventure
5 days from £1,099 pp £999 pp
  • Explore the beautiful Scottish Highlands, staying in luxurious 4-Star hotels
  • Board the famous Jacobite Steam Train for a scenic journey to Mallaig
  • Enjoy a trip along the stunning Kyle Line to view Eilean Donan Castle
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Norwich & Norfolk
Norwich & Norfolk
5 days from £549 pp £449 pp
  • Explore historic Norwich and cruise the Norfolk Broads on a Mississippi Riverboat
  • Experience two heritage railways, including the North Norfolk Railway
  • Enjoy 4 nights’ 3-Star accommodation in a central hotel in Norwich
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British Isles holidays

As the days grow longer and colourful blooms blanket our islands, spring is the perfect time to explore the British Isles. From the glens of the Scottish Highlands to the subtropical gardens of the Isle of Scilly, witness the changing of the seasons in beautiful surroundings.

Our escorted tours reveal many treasures of the UK and Ireland. Wherever you wish to explore, from the remote Outer Hebrides or Yorkshire and Northumberland to Dublin & the Enchanting Emerald Isle, we have a tour to match.

Our escorted tours reveal Discover unique sites such as Stonehenge, the charm of the Isle of Man or the castles of Wales on our award-wining holidays.

Find out more with a free brochure and enjoy weekly travel inspiration and offers in our e-newsletter.

Experience the wonders on your doorstep with our bestselling tours

DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Isle of Man
Save £100pp
4.7 stars(653 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£599 pp £499 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake Windemere
Save £100pp
2026AugSepOct
5 days from
£649 pp £549 pp
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ClassicClassic
Ring of Brodgar
4.2 stars(97 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep
8 days from
£3,299 pp
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ClassicClassic
Conway Castle
Save £100pp
4.6 stars(636 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£899 pp £799 pp
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Scottish Highlands
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4.4 stars(1076 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027MarAprMayJunJul...
9 days from
£3,249 pp £3,149 pp
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ClassicClassic
Skye, Orkney and the Wild North
Save £100pp
4.5 stars(111 reviews)
2026AugSep
2027MayJunJulAugSep
8 days from
£1,999 pp £1,899 pp
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The Highlands by Steam
Save £100pp
4.2 stars(334 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£1,479 pp £1,379 pp
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ClassicClassic
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
Save £100pp
4.7 stars(809 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£899 pp £799 pp
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42 results matching: UK & Ireland

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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Isle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of Man
Save £100pp
4.7 stars(653 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

Delve into Celtic legacy as you explore the Isle of Man, travelling on vintage railways, discovering ancient towns and embracing the relaxed lifestyle. Staying in the picturesque capital of Douglas, each day brings something new - from wild landscapes to fascinating history - as you tour famous sights including The Old House of Keys, historic...

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Save £100pp
6 days from
£599 pp £499 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Vintage Railways of the Isle of ManVintage Railways of the Isle of ManVintage Railways of the Isle of ManVintage Railways of the Isle of ManVintage Railways of the Isle of Man
Save £100pp
4.7 stars(809 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

The Isle of Man is a unique blend of unspoiled coastal landscapes, sandy beaches and stunning scenery. The rich Celtic heritage is evident all over the island, and we experience it by riding vintage railways and exploring historic towns. Each day is an adventure of picturesque landscapes and captivating history as we journey down Douglas...

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Save £100pp
6 days from
£899 pp £799 pp
per person
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Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
Save £100pp
4.6 stars(636 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

On this nostalgic escape, ride on celebrated railways, visit ancient castles and discover the beautiful gardens of north Wales. Journey through stunning scenery on the Ffestiniog Railway, the world's oldest independent line, and ascend Snowdon's summit on the Snowdon Mountain Railway. Step into the unique village of Portmeirion, whose...

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Save £100pp
6 days from
£899 pp £799 pp
per person
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Lake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake Windemere
Save £100pp
2026AugSepOct

Experience picturesque journeys and leisurely moments in the stunning landscapes of the Lake District. Based in Wetheral, travel on heritage railways, enjoy the striking countryside of the north and delight in the natural beauty of this region. Sail across Windermere to scenic Bowness and the pretty village of Grasmere, once home to William...

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Save £100pp
5 days from
£649 pp £549 pp
per person
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The Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak District
Save £100pp
4.2 stars(200 reviews)
2026AugSepOct

Uncover some of rural England's most picturesque landscapes on a scenic journey through Derbyshire and the Peak District. Visit the elegant spa town of Buxton with a local guide and learn about its Roman origins. Explore Bakewell's historic buildings and perhaps sample one of its famous desserts, before visiting the magnificent Chatsworth...

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Save £100pp
5 days from
£479 pp £379 pp
per person
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North Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire Moors
Save £100pp
4.2 stars(800 reviews)
2026AugSepOct

Discover the beauty of Yorkshire on this picturesque rail getaway. Home to timeless towns, sweeping rural landscapes and rich architectural heritage, this is a region full of character and charm just waiting to be explored. Stay in the elegant spa town of Harrogate and visit the coastal resort of Whitby, before enjoying a nostalgic journey on the...

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Save £100pp
5 days from
£479 pp £379 pp
per person
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Yorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & Northumberland
4.3 stars(243 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJulAugSepOct

Encounter the untamed North York Moors and rolling Yorkshire Dales aboard the nostalgic North Yorkshire Moors Railway and famed Settle-Carlisle line, before discovering the gems of Northumberland on a tour which blends dramatic landscapes with fascinating history and culture. In Yorkshire, wander among the spectacular gardens of RHS Harlow Carr,...

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7 days from
£1,299 pp
per person
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Norwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & Norfolk
Save £100pp
4.3 stars(404 reviews)
2026AugSepOct

Discover the rich heritage and natural beauty of Norfolk and Norwich on a journey filled with historic railways, waterways and royal charm. Explore the medieval city of Norwich on a guided tour, cruise along the Norfolk Broads on a Mississippi paddle boat and step back in time on scenic journeys with the Mid and North Norfolk railways. We also...

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Save £100pp
5 days from
£549 pp £449 pp
per person
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Norwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk Broads
Save £100pp
4.3 stars(188 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunSepOct

Discover timeless seaside towns, experience wonderful wildlife, and explore Sandringham - one of the best-loved stately homes of the British Royal Family - on this holiday to Norfolk. From our elegant boutique hotel, restored from a Victorian townhouse in a quiet conservation area in Norwich, we delve into this scenic region. Sail along the...

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Save £100pp
5 days from
£749 pp £649 pp
per person
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The Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway
Save £100pp
4.4 stars(247 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

From picturesque coastlines to rolling hills, explore the beautiful heart of Wales on classic heritage rail journeys from a base in a picturesque spa town, Llandrindod Wells. Journey on the nostalgic Vale of Rheidol, Talyllyn and Welsh & Llanfair railways and join a ranger on a private tour of the Elan Valley, also known as the 'Welsh Lake...

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Save £100pp
5 days from
£699 pp £599 pp
per person
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Fermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay Guernsey
4.6 stars(89 reviews)
2026AugSep
2027AprJunJulAugSep

Discover incredible coastlines and historic sites, visiting Jersey's endless scenic bays and Neolithic La Hougue Bie, and admiring the magical Little Chapel and the crystal-clear waters of Cobo Bay on Guernsey. Experience nature's wonders on trips to Sark and Herm, with no cars and unspoilt landscapes - enjoy a tranquil horse-drawn carriage ride...

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7 days from
£1,999 pp
per person
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Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
Save £100pp
4.3 stars(105 reviews)
2026Aug
2027Aug

Discover the spirit of Scotland on this four-day holiday, offering the perfect blend of culture, history and beautiful landscapes. From the exciting spectacle of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo to a unique journey on the Falkirk Wheel, each day offers something memorable. Explore the magnificent Floors Castle and its gardens after a...

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Save £100pp
4 days from
£749 pp £649 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
Yorkshire & Northumberland
19/Jul
Gary
5 stars
“Very nice holiday and very well organised would recommend to all
Collected by Trustpilot
Railways & Castles of Wales
18/Jul
Ann Burgess
5 stars
“A really lovely holiday. The tour manager was exceptional, and the itinerary was spot on. This was our first time with this company, but it certainly won’t be our last.
Collected by Trustpilot
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
18/Jul
Ann
5 stars
“So easy to book. Wonderful hotel. Great excursions. Knowledgeable escort
Collected by Trustpilot
The Isle of Man
17/Jul
Linda Loney
5 stars
“Great holiday location especially for steam trains and trams. Very friendly.
Collected by Trustpilot
Explore Yorkshire
15/Jul
ex-customer
5 stars
“Based in lovely Harrogate which is also home to the well known (in Yorkshire anyway) Betty's cafe which is well worth a visit. Good balance between trips out and time to explore locally.
Collected by Trustpilot
Norwich & the Norfolk Broads
14/Jul
Maryd
5 stars
“Excellent trip. Sue was a wonderful tour manager who helped us to enjoy every aspect of the trip
Collected by Trustpilot
The Charms of the Channel Islands
5/Jul
John McCarthy
5 stars
“Great trip! Great hotels! Great food! Great excursions! Great company!
Collected by Trustpilot
The Peak District
12/Jul
DAVID TAYLOR
4 stars
“excellent apart from poor menu choices available for dinner
Collected by Trustpilot
Valleys & Railways of Mid Wales
11/Jul
Sue Thompson
4 stars
“Fabulous hotel and guide but too much crammed into first two days to enjoy it
Collected by Trustpilot

Our Guide to the British Isles

Where to go and what to see

Top 5 destinations

York Minster

 

  • York
  • Edinburgh
  • Isle of Man
  • Scilly Isles
  • Dublin

Find out more

Top 5 sights

Stonehenge

 

  • Portmerion Village
  • Elien Donan Castle
  • Stonehenge
  • York Shambles
  • Conwy Castle

Find out more

Top 5 train experiences

North York Moors railway

 

  • The Jacobite Steam Train
  • The Ffestiniog Railway & Welsh Highland Line
  • The North Yorkshire Moors
  • Snaefell Mountain Railway
  • The Isle of Man Steam Railway

Find out more

Expert opinions & guides

Snowdon Railway

Should I stay or should I go

Vacation v Staycation - With so many incredible landscapes and pieces of architecture to discover right here on your doorstep in the UK, you needn't miss out with these perfect vacation vs. staycation swaps!

Read more

Bamburgh Castle

A five-stop guided tour of Great Britain

Re-discover your own lands - We've rounded up our favourites places in the UK to inspire you.

Read more

West Highland Line

Top 5 Scottish Rail Journeys

The Scottish Selection - 5 scenic Scottish rail journeys worth sampling.

Read more

Scotland in the Wild

Live life in the Slow lane and take in the natural beauty of Scotland.

Read more

How many people go on one of your holidays?

Great Rail Journeys is a market leader when it comes to small group tours. We're proud of being pioneers in our approach to group sizes and have become the leading operator for escorted holidays. Our group sizes vary between tours, but are our ranges are usually a good indicator of what to expect.

For our Discoveries range, you'll be in groups with an average of 30-35 travellers and a maximum of 40. If opting for our Classic collection, you'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. Our Landmark holidays are where you'll find our smallest group sizes, starting from as low as 16 travellers and an average of 22, to a maximum of 30.

*Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.

Latest articles from our journey blog