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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 £1,199 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 £949 pp £899 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(346 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£1,049 pp £949 pp
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Lake Windemere
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4.1 stars(358 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£699 pp £649 pp
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Stonehenge at Sunset
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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(758 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£499 pp £449 pp
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The Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway
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4.3 stars(213 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£749 pp £699 pp
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Corfe Castle
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4.0 stars(51 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulSepOct
5 days from
£649 pp £599 pp
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Fermain Bay Guernsey
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4.5 stars(74 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAugSep
7 days from
£1,849 pp £1,749 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lighthouse at the Needles
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4.3 stars(115 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSep
6 days from
£749 pp £699 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
Save up to £200pp
4.5 stars(188 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 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(737 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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Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£949 pp £899 pp
per person
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Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
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4.3 stars(346 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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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£1,049 pp £949 pp
per person
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Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
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4.5 stars(555 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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Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£899 pp £849 pp
per person
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Lake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake Windemere
Save up to £200pp
4.1 stars(358 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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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£699 pp £649 pp
per person
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Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
Save up to £200pp
4.3 stars(545 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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Save up to £200pp
9 days from
£2,199 pp £1,999 pp
per person
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Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
Save up to £200pp
4.1 stars(130 reviews)
2026MayJunSep

Explore the beauty of Scotland's renowned wonders on this Highland getaway. Our holiday begins amongst the cultural richness of Glasgow before we traverse the Scottish Highlands aboard the West Highland Line and set sail on Loch Lomond. Staying in the serene village of Crianlarich, we discover the historic town of Inveraray, visit Duart...

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Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£1,499 pp £1,399 pp
per person
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Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
Save up to £200pp
4.5 stars(56 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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Norwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & Norfolk
Save up to £200pp
4.3 stars(385 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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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£579 pp £529 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(166 reviews)
2025Oct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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 up to £200pp
5 days from
£799 pp £749 pp
per person
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Yorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & Northumberland
Save up to £200pp
4.2 stars(218 reviews)
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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Lighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the Needles
Save up to £200pp
4.3 stars(115 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSep

Enjoy a six-day holiday to the charming Isle of Wight where half the island is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Based in Sandown, savour sweeping coastal views and easy access to the island's most iconic sights. Step back in time at Carisbrooke Castle and explore the elegant Osborne House, Queen Victoria's beloved retreat,...

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Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£749 pp £699 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
22/Sep
M Lynch
5 stars
“It was fabulous. It was well organized, extremely interesting and very personable. On the last day, when the ferry was cancelled due to a storm on the Irish Sea, Great Rail Journeys seamlessly looked after an extended day in Douglass.
Collected by Trustpilot
Norwich & the Norfolk Broads
18/Sep
J Maggs
5 stars
“Very enjoyable trip, good hotel, interesting guides, all trips well organised our tour guide Vivienne Laing was delightful, well informed and efficient. Good company and a jolly good break
Collected by Trustpilot
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
18/Sep
MW Salisbury
5 stars
“This was our first visit to The Scillies; we enjoyed its quirky ambience greatly as well as appreciating GRJ’s planning and the efforts of our tour manager, Ashley, to iron any local difficulties to make our tour so memorable. The five-hour GWR train day-journey between London and Penzance is much better...
Collected by Trustpilot
Yorkshire & Northumberland
16/Sep
Gail Fussell
5 stars
“Good itinerary
Collected by Trustpilot
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & the Highlands
31/Aug
Christine Charie
5 stars
“Good show, well organized and we enjoyed it very much.
Collected by Trustpilot
Isle of Wight
27/Aug
A Smith
5 stars
“Very enjoyable tour, well organised
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
Loch Lomond & the Scottish Highlands
14/Jul
Chris Shaw
5 stars
“5 star, loved the sceneries from boat, coach and train. All carefully planned & well led by Hamas, circulating photos & info. Only negative - would have appreciated more space to stroll around beauty spots after long seatings on transports.
Collected by Trustpilot
Highland Adventure
22/Sep
Dan Sweeney
4 stars
“Overall a very good tour indeed.Train journeys exceptional and visits to Eilean Donan Castle and Culloden superb with very interesting,informative guides at both venues.Hotel and staff were excellent and cannot be faulted.The only negative was the poorly relayed itinerary and lack of information on a daily basis which resulted in...
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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