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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

ClassicClassic
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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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(351 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£1,049 pp £949 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake Windemere
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4.1 stars(363 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£699 pp £649 pp
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ClassicClassic
Stonehenge at Sunset
Save up to £200pp
4.7 stars(21 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(762 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£499 pp £449 pp
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ClassicClassic
The Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway
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4.3 stars(216 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£749 pp £699 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
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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4.6 stars(76 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAugSep
7 days from
£1,849 pp £1,749 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lighthouse at the Needles
Save up to £200pp
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(192 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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Save up to £200pp
9 days from
£2,699 pp £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
Save up to £200pp
4.7 stars(741 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(351 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(563 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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Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
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4.3 stars(549 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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North Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire Moors
Save up to £200pp
4.1 stars(762 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Discover the beauty of Yorkshire on this picturesque rail getaway. Home to timeless towns, sweeping rural landscapes and rich architectural heritage, this is a region full of character and charm just waiting to be explored. Stay in the elegant spa town of Harrogate and visit the coastal resort of Whitby, before enjoying a nostalgic journey...

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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£499 pp £449 pp
per person
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Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
Save up to £200pp
4.3 stars(105 reviews)
2026Aug

Discover the spirit of Scotland on this four-day holiday, offering the perfect blend of culture, history and beautiful landscapes. From the exciting spectacle of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo to a unique journey on the Falkirk Wheel, each day offers something memorable. Explore the magnificent Floors Castle and its gardens after a...

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Save up to £200pp
4 days from
£849 pp £799 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(292 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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Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£1,199 pp £999 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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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 £200pp
4.4 stars(87 reviews)
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct

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 £200pp
8 days from
£2,299 pp £2,099 pp
per person
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Lake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake Windemere
Save up to £200pp
4.1 stars(363 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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Stonehenge at SunsetStonehenge at SunsetStonehenge at SunsetStonehenge at SunsetStonehenge at Sunset
Save up to £200pp
4.7 stars(21 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSep

Discover the ancient stones and monuments of Wiltshire on a tour that takes in the breadth of British history. Explore Stonehenge on an exclusive sunset experience inside the stone circle, marvel at the Neolithic wonders of Avebury and uncover the many treasures of Salisbury, spanning the Bronze Age, Iron Age and Roman periods. Based in...

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Save up to £200pp
7 days from
£1,349 pp £1,249 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
Railways & Castles of Wales
29/Sep
Grover, Janet
5 stars
“Well organised and informative trip
Collected by Trustpilot
Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
29/Sep
David Sinclair
5 stars
“As the sole American participants on the tour who had recently undergone knee replacements, seven and three months apart, I must admit that my walking pace may not be as brisk as others. However, I maintain a steady and comfortable gait throughout the excursion. The tour was an exceptional experience. The...
Collected by Trustpilot
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
29/Sep
Happy Customer
5 stars
“The holiday was well organised and allowed us free time as well as optional organised trips. We thoroughly enjoyed the company of a great group of people, the Islands were stunning and the hotel was above expectations. All round we had a marvellous time, would thoroughly recommend this holiday.
Collected by Trustpilot
Explore Yorkshire
29/Sep
Ian Davies
5 stars
“Lovely break from start to finish.
Collected by Trustpilot
Skye, Orkney & the Wild North
28/Sep
Patrick Loveday
5 stars
“Very enjoyable tour and well led. The sites were diverse and of great interest.
Collected by Trustpilot
Ancient Stones & Treasures of Wiltshire
27/Sep
Sharon
5 stars
“I've given this holiday a 5?rating as we very much enjoyed it, but it wasn't without the occasional problem. As a new holiday for this year, it clearly needs a little tweaking. Despite the bad weather, with a lot of rain, I think we were lucky to dodge...
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
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
29/Sep
Barbara
4 stars
“Well organised, excellent tour leader, good central hotel. As a solo traveller, I found rooms are never the best. Good food, a little unimaginative. Trips well planned, coach driver excellent, a great introduction to Isle of Man.
Collected by Trustpilot
Highland Adventure
29/Sep
Val
4 stars
“Sharon was an excellent tour manager Wonderful scenery. Could have done with a free day not just an evening. Hotel very good but staff rushed off feet at breakfast. Booking was v good with admin staff but found supervisor inflexible and unwilling to accommodate our difficulties which was in complete contrast to the...
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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