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Discover the delights of the British Isles

DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake Windemere
Lakes & Dales by Rail
5 days£649 pp £549 pp
  • Discover the panoramas of northern England, journeying on heritage railways
  • Take a cruise across Lake Windermere to Bowness and picturesque Grasmere
  • Enjoy 4 nights’ 4-star accommodation in the beautiful village of Wetheral
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ClassicClassic
Conway Castle
Railways & Castles of Wales
6 days£899 pp £799 pp
  • Climb to the summit of Snowdon by train and explore Wales on the Ffestiniog Railway
  • Enjoy 5 nights in a 4-Star hotel in the Victorian seaside resort of Llandudno
  • Step back in time on guided tours of Caernarfon, Conwy and Gwydir castles
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Isle of Man
The Isle of Man
6 days£699 pp £599 pp
  • Travel on vintage railways and discover ancient Celtic towns
  • Stay in the picturesque capital of Douglas in a historic 3-star hotel
  • Enjoy stunning views from the iconic Snaefell Mountain Railway
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Dreaming of a British Isles holiday in 2026?

Plan ahead with our most popular tours

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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 £100pp
4.3 stars(328 reviews)
2025JulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£1,099 pp £999 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Corfe Castle
Save £100pp
4.0 stars(49 reviews)
2025JulSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulSepOct
5 days from
£649 pp £549 pp
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ClassicClassic
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
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4.7 stars(692 reviews)
2025JulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£849 pp £749 pp
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Norwich & Norfolk
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4.3 stars(360 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£549 pp £449 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Peak District
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4.0 stars(145 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£499 pp £399 pp
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Dartmoor National Park
4.4 stars(66 reviews)
2025AugSep
2026AprMayJunAugSep
6 days from
£899 pp
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Lighthouse at the Needles
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4.3 stars(109 reviews)
2025JulAugSep
2026MayJunJulAugSep
5 days from
£699 pp £599 pp
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The Highlands by Steam
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4.2 stars(267 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£999 pp £899 pp
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View our 2025 brochure and explore the British Isles with the experts

Our exclusive 2025 tours - perfected over more than 50 years - reveal the very best landscapes of the UK. Journey on iconic railways surrounded by the Scottish Highlands, relax by the coastal scenery of The Isles of Scilly or uncover heritage with the railways and castles of Wales. To experience the wonders of the British Isles, view our new brochures now!

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49 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(510 reviews)
2025JulAugSepOct
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, historic...

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6 days from
£699 pp £599 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
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4.7 stars(692 reviews)
2025JulAugSepOct
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 history as...

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6 days from
£849 pp £749 pp
per person
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North Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire Moors
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4.1 stars(733 reviews)
2025JulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Discover Yorkshire on this picturesque getaway by rail. With timeless towns and cities, Yorkshire is packed with rural landscapes, ancient streets, and diverse architecture, just waiting for you to explore. After checking into your hotel in the elegant town of Harrogate and visiting the coastal town of Whitby, enjoy a journey on the North...

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5 days from
£499 pp £399 pp
per person
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Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
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4.5 stars(525 reviews)
2025JulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

On this nostalgic escape, we 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...

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6 days from
£899 pp £799 pp
per person
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Tresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey Gardens
4.5 stars(163 reviews)
2025JulAugSep
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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9 days from
£2,699 pp
per person
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Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
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4.3 stars(328 reviews)
2025JulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

From Inverness, the gateway to our Highland adventure, we discover the very best of northern Scotland. Soak up breathtaking scenery as we travel aboard magnificent mainline and steam railways, including the legendary Jacobite Steam Train and charming Strathspey Steam Railway. Along the way, we marvel at the towering mountains, shimmering lochs,...

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Save £100pp
5 days from
£1,099 pp £999 pp
per person
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Norwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & Norfolk
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4.3 stars(360 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Discover the great city of Norwich on a guided tour, and explore the meandering waterways and famous heritage railways of Norfolk. From our base in historic Norwich, we enjoy a guided tour of this culture-rich city before scenic journeys on the Mid and North Norfolk railways, a cruise through the Norfolk Broads on a Mississippi paddle boat, and a...

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5 days from
£549 pp £449 pp
per person
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Lake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake Windemere
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4.1 stars(337 reviews)
2025JulAugSepOct
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 £100pp
5 days from
£649 pp £549 pp
per person
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The Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by Steam
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4.2 stars(267 reviews)
2025AugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Journey through the iconic landscapes and culture of Scotland aboard the country's spectacular railways. From the city of Edinburgh to the Cairngorm Mountain, every day is a new experience on this five-day tour. Explore towering sculptures, discover towns and castles, journey on the world-famous Jacobite Steam Train, and experience the...

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Save £100pp
6 days from
£999 pp £899 pp
per person
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Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
4.3 stars(536 reviews)
2025JulAugSepOct
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 Neptune's...

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9 days from
£2,199 pp
per person
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Lighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the Needles
Save £100pp
4.3 stars(109 reviews)
2025JulAugSep
2026MayJunJulAugSep

Experience a five-day holiday to the lovely Isle of Wight. With half of the island designated an 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty', this tour takes in the best of its scenic gems. From the iconic Needles to historic Carisbrooke Castle, embrace the diverse delights of this timeless island. With beautiful beach views from our base in the seaside...

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Save £100pp
5 days from
£699 pp £599 pp
per person
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Norwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk Broads
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4.2 stars(160 reviews)
2025JulAugSepOct
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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5 days from
£799 pp £699 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
20/Jun
Suzanne Nayler
5 stars
“lovely holiday, great tour guides, wonderful weather and scenery, lovely people
Collected by Trustpilot
Skye, Orkney & the Wild North
19/Jun
Mr Oliver
5 stars
“Excellent trip, beautiful and fascinating things to see.
Collected by Trustpilot
North Devon & Somerset
19/Jun
B Whitehead
5 stars
“Hotel at Barnstaple top class. Coach experience good though little less mileage would be appreciated. Tour Manager good. Rail journeys well organised and enjoyable. Disappointing that visit to Cider Farm did not include viewing the brewing process. Big benefit if visit to RHS Garden at Torrington could be combined with...
Collected by Trustpilot
South Wales by Steam
19/Jun
Mr A Gardner
5 stars
“Had a good week. Hotel was good, our room was good and the meals were also good. The staff were excellent and our guide Stella was very good making sure everything ran smoothly and sorting things out if they didn't. The excursions to the Brecon Mountain Railway and the Gwilli...
Collected by Trustpilot
Railways & Castles of Wales
19/Jun
Lawrence Callaby
5 stars
“Excellent service from initial booking to end of tour. Well planned itinerary managed in a friendly and efficient manner.
Collected by Trustpilot
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
18/Jun
Lee Sheppard
5 stars
“I'm delighted I went on this holiday. My husband loves trains and although I wanted to accompany him, I wasn't as enthusiastic. However, my doubts quickly disappeared; I loved every moment on the beautiful Isle of Man. Our guide Kate was wonderful: kind, caring and competent, she was slick and...
Collected by Trustpilot
Isle of Wight
17/Jun
J Hill
5 stars
“Everything was excellent food room and trips.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Peak District
17/Jun
Vijayamala Supramaniam
5 stars
“We had a fabulous experience
Collected by Trustpilot
Ancient Stones & Treasures of Wiltshire
17/Jun
Jill Lyon
5 stars
“A week of great experiences and our manager Diane was excellent. The inside tour of Stonehenge and Salisbury Cathedral were highlights.
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.

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