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Secure your seat today – discover holidays close to home in 2026 

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 £699 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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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Peak District
The Peak District
5 days from £449 pp £399 pp
  • Experience some of rural England's most striking scenery by heritage rail
  • Visit the pretty town of Buxton, and sample Bakewell's famous tasty treats
  • Enjoy 4-Star accommodation in Derby, described as a 'city in the countryside'
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ClassicClassic
The Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway
Valleys & Railways of Mid Wales
5 days from £679 pp £629 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
Save up to £100pp
4.3 stars(377 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£1,049 pp £949 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
North Yorkshire Moors
Save up to £100pp
4.2 stars(783 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
5 days from
£429 pp £379 pp
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ClassicClassic
Conway Castle
Save up to £100pp
4.5 stars(585 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£849 pp £749 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Isle of Man
Save up to £100pp
4.7 stars(627 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£649 pp £599 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake Windemere
Save up to £100pp
2026JunJulAugSepOct
5 days from
£599 pp £549 pp
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Skye, Orkney and the Wild North
Save up to £100pp
4.4 stars(94 reviews)
2026JunAugSepOct
8 days from
£1,999 pp £1,899 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
Save up to £100pp
4.7 stars(627 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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Save up to £100pp
6 days from
£649 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
Save up to £100pp
4.7 stars(789 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
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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Save up to £100pp
6 days from
£799 pp £699 pp
per person
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Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
Save up to £100pp
4.5 stars(585 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
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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Save up to £100pp
6 days from
£849 pp £749 pp
per person
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Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
Save up to £100pp
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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Save up to £100pp
5 days from
£1,049 pp £949 pp
per person
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Pembrokeshire Coast WalesPembrokeshire Coast WalesPembrokeshire Coast WalesPembrokeshire Coast WalesPembrokeshire Coast Wales
Save up to £100pp
4.0 stars(150 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSep

Join us on this delightful getaway to discover the unspoilt rural beauty and hidden treasures of South Wales - with trips aboard nostalgic steam trains into scenic, rugged landscapes, and exploring charming towns. From our base in Swansea, we journey on the Brecon Mountain Railway through the wonderful landscapes of the Brecon Beacons, delve into...

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Save up to £100pp
6 days from
£549 pp £499 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(94 reviews)
2026JunAugSepOct

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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The Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by Steam
Save up to £100pp
4.2 stars(319 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct

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 soak up epic landscapes on the West Highland Line to Mallaig, widely considered to be one of the most scenic rail routes in the world...

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Save up to £100pp
6 days from
£1,099 pp £999 pp
per person
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Norwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & Norfolk
Save up to £100pp
4.3 stars(398 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct

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 also...

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Save up to £100pp
5 days from
£529 pp £479 pp
per person
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Fermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay Guernsey
4.6 stars(84 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSep
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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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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Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
Save up to £100pp
4.3 stars(562 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027MarAprMayJunJul...

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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Save up to £100pp
9 days from
£2,549 pp £2,449 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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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
1/Jun
Dorothy
5 stars
“Very well organised great tour guide Alan Lowe ,excellent hotel in good location . Poor weather to start but that wasn’t the fault of the organisers,
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
Railways & Castles of Wales
24/May
customer
5 stars
“Well organised, friendly group. The tour manager was knowledgeable, friendly & made a point of mixing with everyone. The hotel was good &the food was excellent
Collected by Trustpilot
Norwich & Norfolk
23/May
Andrea
5 stars
“Very enjoyable and good company.
Collected by Trustpilot
Skye, Orkney & the Wild North
1/Jun
Thame Museum
4 stars
“very enjoyable and well organised
Collected by Trustpilot
Highland Adventure
31/May
Ann
4 stars
“Good Hotel with good food and comfortable rooms . We enjoyed our trips out especially the cruise on Loch Ness and the visit to the Loch Ness Experience. Our Tour Guide Sharon was well organised, friendly and had a very good rapport with the customers. We were disappointed there was...
Collected by Trustpilot
The Isle of Man
30/May
Graham Robinson
4 stars
“The hotel was a little out of the way
Collected by Trustpilot
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
30/May
Mr Roberts
4 stars
“The trip was marvellous socially with a big mix of different nationalities. But the distances on buses were too much and there was a fiasco re te Jacobite Train which was anticipated by we two Brits but probably a major disappointment to those who had travelled thousands of miles ...
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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