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Explore the timeless British Isles
Discover historic towns and breathtaking landscapes
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Discover the delights of the British Isles

ClassicClassic
Tresco Abbey Gardens
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
9 days from £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 £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
Stonehenge at Sunset
Ancient Stones & Treasures of Wiltshire
7 days from £1,249 pp
  • Walk amidst Stonehenge’s inner circle on a private tour at sunrise or sunset
  • Spend 6 nights in a 4-Star hotel in Salisbury and enjoy two heritage rail journeys
  • Uncover the mysteries of the past amongst the ancient ruins of Wardour Castle
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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

ClassicClassic
Highland Adventure
4.3 stars(364 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£949 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake Windemere
4.1 stars(380 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£649 pp
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ClassicClassic
Stonehenge at Sunset
4.7 stars(21 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSep
7 days from
£1,249 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
North Yorkshire Moors
4.1 stars(775 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£449 pp
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ClassicClassic
The Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway
4.3 stars(222 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£749 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Corfe Castle
4.0 stars(63 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulSepOct
5 days from
£599 pp
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ClassicClassic
Fermain Bay Guernsey
4.6 stars(80 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAugSep
7 days from
£1,749 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lighthouse at the Needles
4.3 stars(120 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSep
6 days from
£679 pp
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50 results matching: UK & Ireland

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ClassicClassic
Tresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey Gardens
4.5 stars(204 reviews)
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...

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9 days from
£2,499 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
4.7 stars(756 reviews)
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 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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6 days from
£899 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
4.3 stars(364 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

From our base in Carrbridge, we discover the very best of northern Scotland. Soak up breathtaking scenery as we travel aboard the legendary Jacobite steam train and the charming Strathspey Steam Railway. Along the way, we marvel at the towering mountains, shimmering lochs, and emerald forests that make up the Scottish landscape. Step back...

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5 days from
£949 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
4.5 stars(572 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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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6 days from
£849 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
4.3 stars(554 reviews)
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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9 days from
£1,999 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by Steam
4.2 stars(308 reviews)
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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6 days from
£999 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
The Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway
4.3 stars(222 reviews)
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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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Norwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & Norfolk
4.3 stars(396 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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...

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5 days from
£529 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Walworth CastleWalworth CastleWalworth CastleWalworth CastleWalworth Castle
4.4 stars(123 reviews)
2026MayJunSep

Experience the historic cathedral city of Durham on this five-night break, based at the majestic 12th-century Walworth Castle in the heart of County Durham. Discover some of the region's most famous landmarks, such as Chesters Roman Fort and Hadrian's Wall, and step back in time to other historic periods during visits to the captivating...

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6 days from
£799 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Dartmoor National ParkDartmoor National ParkDartmoor National ParkDartmoor National ParkDartmoor National Park
4.4 stars(71 reviews)
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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6 days from
£849 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake Windemere
4.1 stars(380 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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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5 days from
£649 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
4.4 stars(136 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct

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...

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5 days from
£499 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
3/Nov
Philip
5 stars
“To add the Falkirk Wheel and the Kelpies to the program widened the scope of it in a good way. The variety of activity was also a plus. And the tour leader, Liz, was excellent. I felt the attempt to introduce us to Scottish food did not hit the mark,...
Collected by Trustpilot
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
28/Oct
N Morgan
5 stars
“We had a great time !
Collected by Trustpilot
Norwich & Norfolk
24/Oct
T James
5 stars
“Very positive opportunity to find out more about Norwich and parts of Norfolk previously unfamiliar to us.
Collected by Trustpilot
Lakes & Dales by Rail
24/Oct
A Gibbins
5 stars
“Well run. Interesting visits
Collected by Trustpilot
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
23/Oct
Michael Anthony
5 stars
“Lovely trip to the Isles of Scilly. Excellent tour manager who coped brilliantly after a return flight delay.
Collected by Trustpilot
Railways & Castles of Wales
23/Oct
JanetJones
5 stars
“Brilliant holiday and the tour manager was excellent
Collected by Trustpilot
Highland Adventure
21/Oct
Customer
5 stars
“All went well.
Collected by Trustpilot
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
18/Oct
Ci
5 stars
“Lovely trip Lisa was a great guide Bus driver in Glencoe was amazing
Collected by Trustpilot
Cotswolds & The Severn Valley
14/Oct
Stuart Davis
5 stars
“Nice holiday,the railway trips were the highlight,felt disappointed with seven valley where they weren’t running any steam engines at all just diesels! Hotel was nice except for swimming pool and sauna refurbishment works as we swim every day to be told they were out of action three days before.Our 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!

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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.

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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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