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Explore the timeless British Isles
Save up to £200pp on idyllic UK getaways in 2026
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Discover the delights of the British Isles

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Tresco Abbey Gardens
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
9 days from £2,699 pp £2,499 pp
  • Discover a paradise of clear azure waters, white-sand beaches and historic towns
  • Experience a unique small group holiday based on the main island of St Mary's
  • Uncover Tresco Abbey's gardens and the islands of St Agnes and St Martin's
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Highlands by Steam
Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
6 days from £1,099 pp £999 pp
  • Enjoy Edinburgh before exploring Scotland's lochs, mountains and glens
  • Travel the West Highland Line on the world famous Jacobite Steam Train
  • Spend 5 nights in 3-star hotels in Edinburgh and Blair Atholl
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ClassicClassic
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
6 days from £799 pp £749 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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Dreaming of a British Isles holiday in 2026?

Plan ahead with our most popular tours

Available Now

British Isles Escorted Rail Holidays

From the Scottish Highlands to the Isles of Scilly, the British Isles has centuries of history, culture and stunning landscapes to uncover. Explore historic cities, journey on celebrated heritage railways across ancient landscapes and sail to untouched islands such as Skye, Orkney, or the Isle of Wight.

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

Discover unique sites such as the Ancient Stones & Treasures of Wiltshire and other inspiring destinations in England, Scotland and Wales all year round, or consider one of our ever-popular seasonal Christmas tours for a truly memorable festive season.

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

Best Selling Holidays in the British Isles

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Highland Adventure
Save up to £200pp
4.3 stars(342 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£1,099 pp £999 pp
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Lake Windemere
Save up to £200pp
4.1 stars(349 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£649 pp £599 pp
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Stonehenge at Sunset
Save up to £200pp
4.7 stars(19 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSep
7 days from
£1,349 pp £1,249 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
North Yorkshire Moors
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4.1 stars(749 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£499 pp £449 pp
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The Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway
4.3 stars(213 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£749 pp
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Corfe Castle
Save up to £200pp
4.0 stars(51 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulSepOct
5 days from
£649 pp £599 pp
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Fermain Bay Guernsey
Save up to £200pp
4.5 stars(74 reviews)
2025Sep
2026AprMayJunJulAugSep
7 days from
£1,849 pp £1,749 pp
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Lighthouse at the Needles
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4.3 stars(114 reviews)
2025Sep
2026MayJunJulAugSep
5 days from
£749 pp £699 pp
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49 results matching: UK & Ireland

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Lake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake Windemere
Save up to £200pp
4.1 stars(349 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

From your base in Wetheral, travel on heritage railways, enjoy the striking countryside of the north and delight in the natural beauty of England's Lake District. Sail across Lake Windermere to inspirational Bowness and the pretty village of Grasmere, once home to William Wordsworth. Enjoy a journey on the Settle to Carlisle Line to Skipton...

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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£649 pp £599 pp
per person
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Isle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of Man
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4.7 stars(552 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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,...

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Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£699 pp £649 pp
per person
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Tresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey Gardens
Save up to £200pp
4.5 stars(179 reviews)
2025Sep
2026AprMayJunJulAugSep

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. While exploring...

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Save up to £200pp
9 days from
£2,699 pp £2,499 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
Save up to £200pp
4.7 stars(726 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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 as we ride vintage railways, explore historic towns, and enjoy the relaxed pace of life. Each day is an adventure of picturesque landscapes and captivating...

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Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£799 pp £749 pp
per person
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The Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak District
Save up to £200pp
4.1 stars(167 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Uncover some of the best landscapes that rural England has to offer in Derbyshire and the Peak District. Visit the pretty town of Buxton and discover its Roman origins with a local guide, explore Bakewell's historic buildings and maybe try its famous tasty treats, before visiting the majestic Chatsworth House, and travelling back in time on...

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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£549 pp £499 pp
per person
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The Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by Steam
Save up to £200pp
4.2 stars(286 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

On a captivating holiday through Scotland, uncover the best of Edinburgh and the Highlands in a perfect blend of iconic railways, grand castles and breathtaking scenery. Take in the historic sights of Edinburgh and enjoy a nostalgic trip on the Jacobite steam train, widely considered to be one of the most scenic train journeys in the world...

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Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£1,099 pp £999 pp
per person
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Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
Save up to £200pp
4.3 stars(545 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

Majestic lochs, glorious glens and a rich tapestry of history await as we explore Edinburgh and cross the Highlands. Travelling on the scenic West Highland and Kyle railway lines, we discover ancient castles, sail across glimmering lochs, and stay in historic cities. Wander the fascinating streets of Edinburgh, stand at the foot of...

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Save up to £200pp
9 days from
£2,199 pp £1,999 pp
per person
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Dartmoor National ParkDartmoor National ParkDartmoor National ParkDartmoor National ParkDartmoor National Park
Save up to £200pp
4.4 stars(66 reviews)
2025Sep
2026AprMayJunAugSep

On a captivating holiday in north Devon and Somerset, uncover the best of the West Country in a blend of scenic railways, idyllic harbour towns and expansive national parks. Visit the bustling market town of Tavistock, home of the famous cream tea, and experience the enchanting RHS Garden Rosemoor, an inspiring 65-acre garden waiting to be...

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Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£899 pp £849 pp
per person
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Norwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk Broads
Save up to £200pp
4.2 stars(161 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Discover timeless seaside towns, experience Norfolk's wonderful wildlife, and explore Sandringham - one of the best-loved stately homes of the British Royal Family - on this delightful holiday. From our elegant boutique hotel, restored from a Victorian townhouse in a quiet conservation area in Norwich, we explore the pretty waterways of the...

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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£799 pp £749 pp
per person
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Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
Save up to £200pp
4.5 stars(50 reviews)
2026Aug

A fantastic short break culminating in the iconic extravaganza of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, with pipes and drums resonating from the castle's elevated setting. Based in the charming town of Dunblane, peacefully situated in the Perthshire countryside, this Scottish holiday also includes a visit to historic Stirling Castle and a...

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Save up to £200pp
4 days from
£899 pp £849 pp
per person
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The Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway
4.3 stars(213 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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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5 days from
£749 pp
per person
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Yorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & Northumberland
Save up to £200pp
4.2 stars(216 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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 ...

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Save up to £200pp
7 days from
£1,399 pp £1,299 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
27/Aug
Elizabeth Millard
5 stars
“Busy schedule but very enjoyable
Collected by Trustpilot
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & the Highlands
27/Aug
Muriel Simpson
5 stars
“The Tattoo was amazing and our trip to Stirling Castle and the Falkirk wheel and distillery was really interesting too. The train journey was very short and we did expect a journey through the Cairngorms as advertised. However overall it was a great experience.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Isle of Man
27/Aug
Mr Colin Clarke
5 stars
“Great holiday
Collected by Trustpilot
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
26/Aug
Monica
5 stars
“A great trip with a lovely caring tour manager. Timings were spot on and the outings just as planned. Our tour manager was keen to assist me with the outing for the free day which she did well. Hotel was good (even though my room was rather hot; a...
Collected by Trustpilot
The Peak District
25/Aug
pamela w
5 stars
“Lovely town to visit and beautiful countryside
Collected by Trustpilot
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
25/Aug
Lisa Ray
5 stars
“Highly recommend this trip! We had a fabulous time! It was just as advertised and our tour guide kept it running trouble free and smooth! The scenery is just amazing!
Collected by Trustpilot
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
21/Aug
Brian
5 stars
“So much to see and do, beautiful views everywhere you look. Lovely group of friendly travel companions. Amazing food, lovely comfortable accommodation with friendly, helpful staff. Very helpful tour guide, organised everything we needed. A wonderful holiday.
Collected by Trustpilot
Yorkshire & Northumberland
12/Aug
Sylvia
5 stars
“An excellent trip, with interesting & varied places & a great tour manager!
Collected by Trustpilot
Lakes & Dales by Rail
31/Jul
Graham
5 stars
“Lovely area and wonderful tour guide.
Collected by Trustpilot

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.

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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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