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Limited time only! Save up to £200pp on selected UK heritage rail tours

Discover the magic of the British Isles

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Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
6 days from £799 pp £599 pp
  • Explore the Isle of Man aboard historic trains and enjoy 5 nights in a 4-Star hotel
  • Ascend Snaefell on the British Isles’ only electric mountain railway for great views
  • Enjoy a guided drive on the TT racing circuit with commentary from a racer
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Norwich & Norfolk
Norwich & Norfolk
5 days from £529 pp £429 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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The Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway
Valleys & Railways of Mid Wales
5 days from £679 pp £579 pp
  • Explore the heart of Wales, staying in a 4-Star hotel in a picturesque spa town
  • Journey on the nostalgic Vale of Rheidol, Talyllyn and Welsh & Llanfair railways
  • Enjoy a private tour of the Elan Valley, also known as the 'Welsh Lake District'
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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

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Highland Adventure
Double discount!
4.3 stars(377 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£1,049 pp £849 pp
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Conway Castle
Double discount!
4.5 stars(590 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£849 pp £649 pp
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Isle of Man
Double discount!
4.7 stars(632 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£699 pp £599 pp
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Norwich & the Norfolk Broads
Double discount!
4.2 stars(177 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunSepOct
5 days from
£679 pp £579 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Double discount!
4.4 stars(143 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
5 days from
£449 pp £349 pp
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Tresco Abbey Gardens
4.5 stars(215 reviews)
2026JulAugSep
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep
9 days from
£2,799 pp
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Edinburgh Castle
Double discount!
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunAugSepOct
7 days from
£1,599 pp £1,399 pp
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The Highlands by Steam
Double discount!
4.1 stars(322 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
6 days from
£1,099 pp £899 pp
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43 results matching: UK & Ireland

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Isle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of Man
Double discount!
4.7 stars(632 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
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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Double discount!
6 days from
£699 pp £599 pp
per person
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Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
Double discount!
4.5 stars(590 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
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 design was...

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Double discount!
6 days from
£849 pp £649 pp
per person
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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
Double discount!
4.7 stars(791 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
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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Double discount!
6 days from
£799 pp £599 pp
per person
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Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
Double discount!
4.3 stars(377 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

Discover the very best of the Scottish Highlands while soaking up breathtaking scenery aboard the legendary West Highland Line and Strathspey Steam Railway. Along the way, marvel at the towering mountains, shimmering lochs and emerald forests that make up the Scottish landscape. Delve into Scotland's fascinating heritage and rich history with a...

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Double discount!
5 days from
£1,049 pp £849 pp
per person
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North Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire Moors
Save up to £100pp
4.2 stars(783 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct

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 up to £100pp
5 days from
£429 pp £379 pp
per person
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Yorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & Northumberland
4.2 stars(232 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
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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Tresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey Gardens
4.5 stars(215 reviews)
2026JulAugSep
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep

Escape to the picturesque Isles of Scilly and enter an unspoilt world with a gentle climate, heavenly beaches and a relaxed pace of life. Based on the main island of St Mary's, spend your days uncovering local treasures, admiring Tresco Abbey's sub-tropical gardens, and visiting the beautiful islands of St Agnes and St Martin's.     ...

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9 days from
£2,799 pp
per person
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The Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak District
Save up to £100pp
4.1 stars(192 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct

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 House...

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Save up to £100pp
5 days from
£449 pp £399 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Double discount!
4.4 stars(143 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct

From picture-postcard villages and lush rolling meadows to gentle waterways and historic steam railways, discover quintessential English charm and beauty in abundance on this holiday to one of the most scenic parts of the UK, the Cotswolds. Explore timber-framed Tudor buildings and the stunning cathedral in Worcester, and discover the charming...

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Double discount!
5 days from
£449 pp £349 pp
per person
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The Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway
Save up to £100pp
4.1 stars(98 reviews)
2026SepOct

Experience the timeless charm of the stunning English Riviera on a journey filled with nostalgic railway journeys and coastal delights. Take in the scenery aboard the Dartmouth Steam Railway and South Devon Railway, enjoy a traditional Devonshire cream tea in Dawlish, visit the tranquil Buckfast Abbey and unwind on a picturesque boat cruise. ...

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Save up to £100pp
5 days from
£649 pp £599 pp
per person
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Skye, Orkney and the Wild NorthSkye, Orkney and the Wild NorthSkye, Orkney and the Wild NorthSkye, Orkney and the Wild NorthSkye, Orkney and the Wild North
Save up to £100pp
4.4 stars(99 reviews)
2026AugSepOct

Let the rugged beauty of Scotland capture your heart on this seven-night holiday. Starting in Glasgow, journey through stunning landscapes to Scotland's mystic north. Tour the Orkney Islands and discover ancient Neolithic sites including Skara Brae and marvel at the beauty of the great houses of the northern Highlands, Dunrobin and Dunvegan. ...

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Save up to £100pp
8 days from
£1,999 pp £1,899 pp
per person
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Fermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay Guernsey
4.6 stars(85 reviews)
2026JulAugSep
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep

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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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
Skye, Orkney & the Wild North
8/Jun
John Fiander
5 stars
“Excellent holiday, always wanted to travel the highland line. Pity scotrail crammed us into those awful seats for four with a table with no leg room. The same on the Kyle line. My wife and I managed to move seats on both journeys. ...
Collected by Trustpilot
Railways & Castles of Wales
8/Jun
Stuart Moore
5 stars
“Great tour with lovely people, a fantastic tour guide and excellent food at the hotel.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Isle of Man
6/Jun
Di
5 stars
“Had a fantastic time in spite of mixed weather. Excursions were excellent and well informed. The hotel was lovely and the food massively exceeded expectations. Would highly recommend.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
5/Jun
McMillan-Shiels
5 stars
“A wonderful relaxing holiday that truly showed the beauty of the Scilly Isles. There was a hiccough on the return journey because of the weather. Great Rail Journeys sorted out the return journey travel and overnight accommodation arrangements. Our tour guide Andy is a real asset to your company; thank...
Collected by Trustpilot
Cotswolds & The Severn Valley
1/Jun
MR A SEARLE
5 stars
“excellent experience, well organised, group a good size
Collected by Trustpilot
Yorkshire & Northumberland
28/May
Jeff
5 stars
“I have already returned a completed review a few days after our memorable enjoyable holiday. please check your records. Sue askew
Collected by Trustpilot
South Devon, Dartmouth & the English Riviera
25/May
Ken and Janice Picking
5 stars
“A very enjoyable five day four nights tour. Well organised short break holiday We added a pre and post day to the itinerary to make the journey worth while
Collected by Trustpilot
The Peak District
7/Jun
cliff Cheriton
4 stars
“Really enjoyed Bakewell and Buxton
Collected by Trustpilot
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
6/Jun
M Beattie
4 stars
“Good itinerary. Nice friendly tour manager. Good hotel with good food. Only negative te hotel bar was in the restaurant not in a separate lounge so difficult to get predinner drink before going into restaurant.
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.

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