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Ending soon! Save up to £200pp on selected Scotland 2026 holidays

Discover the magic of the British Isles

ClassicClassic
York
Glorious Yorkshire
6 days from £749 pp £699 pp
  • Explore the historic city of York from York Minster to the ancient city walls
  • Ride the North Yorkshire Moors Railway through God's own country
  • Discover Whitby's Gothic Abbey and enjoy a guided tour of Castle Howard
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Edinburgh Castle
Glasgow & the Highland Adventure
7 days from £1,599 pp £1,399 pp
  • Starting from historic Glasgow, experience the very best of the Scottish Highlands
  • Journey through stunning Highland scenery aboard the iconic Jacobite steam train
  • Enjoy a guided tour of Edinburgh and a cruise across Loch Ness to Urquhart Castle
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ClassicClassic
Dartmoor National Park
North Devon & Somerset
6 days from £999 pp £899 pp
  • Discover heritage railways, charming towns and natural beauty
  • Explore Dartmoor National Park, and visit the gardens of RHS Rosemoor
  • Journey on the Dartmoor Line, Lynton & Barnstaple Railway and West Somerset Steam Railway
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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

ClassicClassic
Highland Adventure
Double discount!
4.3 stars(381 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£1,099 pp £899 pp
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ClassicClassic
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
Save up to £100pp
4.7 stars(791 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£949 pp £849 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Corfe Castle
Save up to £100pp
4.1 stars(74 reviews)
2026JulSepOct
5 days from
£579 pp £529 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Norwich & Norfolk
Save up to £100pp
4.3 stars(400 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
5 days from
£579 pp £529 pp
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ClassicClassic
Tresco Abbey Gardens
4.5 stars(219 reviews)
2026JulAugSep
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep
9 days from
£2,799 pp
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ClassicClassic
Scottish Highlands
Double discount!
4.3 stars(564 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027MarAprMayJunJul...
9 days from
£2,599 pp £2,399 pp
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ClassicClassic
Stonehenge at Sunset
Save up to £100pp
4.7 stars(29 reviews)
2026JulAugSep
7 days from
£1,199 pp £1,099 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Highlands by Steam
Double discount!
4.1 stars(326 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£1,099 pp £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(632 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
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
£699 pp £649 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
Save up to £100pp
4.5 stars(601 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
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
£899 pp £799 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(791 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
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
£949 pp £849 pp
per person
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Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
Double discount!
4.3 stars(381 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
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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Double discount!
5 days from
£1,099 pp £899 pp
per person
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North Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire Moors
Save up to £100pp
4.2 stars(788 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct

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 on the...

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Save up to £100pp
5 days from
£429 pp £379 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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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
Double discount!
4.4 stars(99 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027MayJunJulAugSep

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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Double discount!
8 days from
£1,999 pp £1,799 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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Pembrokeshire Coast WalesPembrokeshire Coast WalesPembrokeshire Coast WalesPembrokeshire Coast WalesPembrokeshire Coast Wales
Save up to £100pp
4.0 stars(155 reviews)
2026JulAugSep

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
£599 pp £549 pp
per person
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Fermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay Guernsey
4.6 stars(85 reviews)
2026JulAugSep
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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Tresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey Gardens
4.5 stars(219 reviews)
2026JulAugSep
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep

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.     ...

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9 days from
£2,799 pp
per person
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Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
Double discount!
4.3 stars(105 reviews)
2026Aug
2027Aug

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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Double discount!
4 days from
£749 pp £649 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
17/Jun
Alton resident
5 stars
“Fantastic holiday, well organised. Excellent tour guide
Collected by Trustpilot
Railways & Castles of Wales
15/Jun
Mrs Lynne Spencer
5 stars
“A lovely holiday in North Wales. It was a busy 5 days. The coach driver was so informative, and an excellent driver who navigated the narrow lanes with ease. The trains were on time, clean and comfortable The hotel was very friendly and close to the front of LLandudno. Our tour manager was...
Collected by Trustpilot
Highland Adventure
12/Jun
Shirley Wileman
5 stars
“An experience of a lifetime. Jacobite Steam Railway was marvelous. Guided tour of Colluden was very enlightening. Even the weather was kind.
Collected by Trustpilot
Skye, Orkney & the Wild North
8/Jun
John Fiander
5 stars
“Excellent holiday, always wanted to travel the highland line. Pity scotrail crammed us into those awful seats for four with a table with no leg room. The same on the Kyle line. My wife and I managed to move seats on both journeys. ...
Collected by Trustpilot
The Isle of Man
6/Jun
Di
5 stars
“Had a fantastic time in spite of mixed weather. Excursions were excellent and well informed. The hotel was lovely and the food massively exceeded expectations. Would highly recommend.
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
Explore Yorkshire
13/Jun
Mrs G Williams
4 stars
“Lovely holiday, but hotel was not so good. The food was excellent, but we were given a double room when we should have had a twin room and had to have it changed. Someone else who expected a double bed, got given a twin room and someone else's room had...
Collected by Trustpilot
South Wales by Steam
13/Jun
MRSCAROLEHENDERSON
4 stars
“My husband and I were a bit disappointed with the choice of railways to visit. Vale of Rheidol RailwayLocation: Park Avenue, Aberystwyth (SY23 1PG) - we would have liked to have visited this one. We were disappointed in the choice of location of our hotel. The hotel was fine but in...
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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