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Explore the timeless British Isles
Discover breathtaking landscapes and heritage rail

Discover the magic of the British Isles in 2026

ClassicClassic
Conway Castle
Railways & Castles of Wales
6 days from £899 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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ClassicClassic
Yorkshire & Northumberland
Yorkshire & Northumberland
7 days from £1,199 pp
  • Travel aboard heritage trains on the North Yorkshire Moors and Settle-Carlisle railways
  • Visit the gardens of RHS Harlow Carr, York's medieval streets and Whitby Abbey
  • Discover Northumberland, from Alnwick Castle to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne
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ClassicClassic
Tresco Abbey Gardens
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
9 days from £2,399 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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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 breathtaking landscapes and heritage railways

DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Highlands by Steam
4.2 stars(315 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
6 days from
£1,099 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Isle of Man
4.7 stars(607 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
6 days from
£699 pp
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ClassicClassic
Highland Adventure
4.3 stars(374 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£1,049 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Callanish Stones
4.2 stars(55 reviews)
2026JulSep
8 days from
£1,949 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
North Yorkshire Moors
4.2 stars(779 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
5 days from
£429 pp
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ClassicClassic
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
4.7 stars(769 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
6 days from
£799 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake Windemere
2026JunJulAugSepOct
5 days from
£649 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Norwich & Norfolk
4.3 stars(396 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
5 days from
£549 pp
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43 results matching: UK & Ireland

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ClassicClassic
Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
4.5 stars(579 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct

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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6 days from
£899 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Isle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of Man
4.7 stars(607 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct

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
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(769 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct

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
£799 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
4.3 stars(374 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

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 in time...

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5 days from
£1,049 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Norwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk Broads
4.2 stars(170 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct

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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5 days from
£699 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Fermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay Guernsey
4.6 stars(80 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSep

Uncover the hidden charm of the Channel Islands on a scenic escape to Guernsey, Jersey and Sark, a trio of isles brimming with natural beauty and fascinating heritage. Explore the dramatic coastline and historic sites with local guides, from the poignant Jersey War Tunnels to the timeless Castle Cornet in Guernsey. Admire tranquil bays that once...

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7 days from
£1,699 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Norwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & Norfolk
4.3 stars(396 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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5 days from
£549 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
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 journey...

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4 days from
£799 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Walworth CastleWalworth CastleWalworth CastleWalworth CastleWalworth Castle
4.4 stars(123 reviews)
2026JunSep

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 Beamish...

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6 days from
£729 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
4.4 stars(136 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct

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 charming...

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5 days from
£529 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Yorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & Northumberland
4.2 stars(229 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct

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
£1,199 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
No Single Supplement
4.3 stars(557 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct
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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No Single Supplement
9 days from
£2,399 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
9/May
Colin Williams
5 stars
“Excellent tour and tour leader. The Claremont Hotel was superb.
Collected by Trustpilot
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
8/May
Michael Smith
5 stars
“Just brilliant!
Collected by Trustpilot
Railways & Castles of Wales
7/May
customer
5 stars
“Excellent holiday.
Collected by Trustpilot
Highland Adventure
3/May
arthur shearer
5 stars
“Great holiday. Carrbridge hotel was lovely with great food and staff.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Isle of Man
30/Apr
Ena Bravery
5 stars
“We had very good time & the group was great.
Collected by Trustpilot
Norwich & Norfolk
21/Apr
Sz Bristol
5 stars
“Great 4 night break, trips and staff faultless. Especially enjoyed Sandringham, the walking tour of Norwich and the boat trip on the Broads
Collected by Trustpilot
Cotswolds & The Severn Valley
14 Oct 2025
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
Norwich & the Norfolk Broads
14 Oct 2025
Mr Peter Rawling
5 stars
“A really well planned, paced and organised trip with an excellent leader and good accommodation and catering - the perfect, short break getaway.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & the Highlands
31 Aug 2025
Christine Charie
5 stars
“Good show, well organized and we enjoyed it very much.
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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