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Discover the delights of the British Isles

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Lake Windemere
Lakes & Dales by Rail
5 days from £649 pp
  • Discover the panoramas of northern England, journeying on heritage railways
  • Take a cruise across Lake Windermere to Bowness and picturesque Grasmere
  • Enjoy 4 nights’ 4-star accommodation in the beautiful village of Wetheral
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Norwich & the Norfolk Broads
Norwich & the Norfolk Broads
5 days from £799 pp
  • Enjoy Norfolk’s friendly coastal towns, unspoilt nature, nostalgic steam trains
  • Sail along the beautiful Norfolk Broads aboard a Mississippi paddle boat
  • Stay in a boutique hotel set in a quiet conservation area close to Norwich
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Isle of Man
The Isle of Man
6 days from £699 pp
  • Travel on vintage railways and discover ancient Celtic towns
  • Stay in the picturesque capital of Douglas in a historic 3-star hotel
  • Enjoy stunning views from the iconic Snaefell Mountain Railway
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Dreaming of a British Isles holiday in 2026?

Plan ahead with our most popular tours

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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

ClassicClassic
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
4.7 stars(725 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£799 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Peak District
4.1 stars(167 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£549 pp
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ClassicClassic
Stonehenge at Sunset
4.7 stars(18 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSep
7 days from
£1,299 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Scottish Highlands
4.1 stars(130 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026MayJunSep
6 days from
£999 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Walworth Castle
4.5 stars(111 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026MayJunSep
6 days from
£799 pp
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ClassicClassic
Conway Castle
4.5 stars(550 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£849 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Pembrokeshire Coast Wales
4.0 stars(144 reviews)
2025Sep
2026MayJunJulAugSep
6 days from
£649 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Corfe Castle
4.0 stars(51 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulSepOct
5 days from
£649 pp
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49 results matching: UK & Ireland

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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake Windemere
4.1 stars(349 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

From your base in Wetheral, travel on heritage railways, enjoy the striking countryside of the north and delight in the natural beauty of England's Lake District. Sail across Lake Windermere to inspirational Bowness and the pretty village of Grasmere, once home to William Wordsworth. Enjoy a journey on the Settle to Carlisle Line to Skipton...

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5 days from
£649 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Isle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of Man
4.7 stars(550 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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
Tresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey Gardens
4.5 stars(178 reviews)
2025Sep
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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9 days from
£2,699 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(725 reviews)
2025SepOct
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 as we ride vintage railways, explore historic towns, and enjoy the relaxed pace of life. Each day is an adventure of picturesque landscapes and captivating history as...

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6 days from
£799 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak District
4.1 stars(167 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Uncover some of the best landscapes that rural England has to offer in Derbyshire and the Peak District. Visit the pretty town of Buxton and discover its Roman origins with a local guide, explore Bakewell's historic buildings and maybe try its famous tasty treats, before visiting the majestic Chatsworth House, and travelling back in time on a...

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5 days from
£549 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by Steam
4.2 stars(284 reviews)
2025SepOct
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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6 days from
£949 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
4.3 stars(545 reviews)
2025SepOct
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 Neptune's...

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9 days from
£2,199 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
4.1 stars(130 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026MayJunSep

Journey to the heart of the Scottish Highlands, taking in the marvellous lochs and glens this part of the world is famous for. Our holiday begins amongst the cultural richness of Glasgow before we traverse the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands aboard the West Highland Line and set sail on stunning Loch Lomond. Staying in the...

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6 days from
£999 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Dartmoor National ParkDartmoor National ParkDartmoor National ParkDartmoor National ParkDartmoor National Park
4.4 stars(66 reviews)
2025Sep
2026AprMayJunAugSep

On a captivating holiday in north Devon and Somerset, uncover the best of the West Country in a blend of scenic railways, idyllic harbour towns and expansive national parks. Visit the bustling market town of Tavistock, home of the famous cream tea, and experience the enchanting RHS Garden Rosemoor, an inspiring 65-acre garden waiting to be...

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6 days from
£899 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Corfe Castle Corfe Castle Corfe Castle Corfe Castle Corfe Castle
4.0 stars(51 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulSepOct

Explore the gems of Dorset and Hampshire by steam train and heritage railway. Based in Bournemouth, experience the incredible Jurassic Coast - England's only natural UNESCO World Heritage site - on a cruise past Old Harry Rocks to Swanage. From here, travel on the Swanage Railway through idyllic scenery to ancient Corfe Castle on the Isle of...

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5 days from
£649 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
The Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway
4.3 stars(213 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

From picturesque coastlines to rolling hills, explore the beautiful heart of Wales on classic heritage rail journeys from a base in a picturesque spa town, Llandrindod Wells. Journey on the nostalgic Vale of Rheidol, Talyllyn and Welsh & Llanfair railways and join a ranger on a private tour of the Elan Valley, also known as the 'Welsh Lake...

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5 days from
£699 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Yorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & Northumberland
4.2 stars(216 reviews)
2025SepOct
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 Carr,...

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7 days from
£1,299 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
The Peak District
25/Aug
pamela w
5 stars
“Lovely town to visit and beautiful countryside
Collected by Trustpilot
The Isle of Man
25/Aug
Mr Peter Taylor
5 stars
“Loved the Isle of Man, clean ,no graffiti lovely villages, coves. The Ascot hotel was great, lovely room fantastic food
Collected by Trustpilot
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
25/Aug
T Greenwood
5 stars
“A fantastic well needed break, really enjoyed meeting people and seeing all the different places of interest. Well organised and completly stress free.
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
Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
22/Aug
geof wheway
5 stars
“Varied and interesting
Collected by Trustpilot
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
21/Aug
Brian
5 stars
“So much to see and do, beautiful views everywhere you look. Lovely group of friendly travel companions. Amazing food, lovely comfortable accommodation with friendly, helpful staff. Very helpful tour guide, organised everything we needed. A wonderful holiday.
Collected by Trustpilot
Yorkshire & Northumberland
12/Aug
Sylvia
5 stars
“An excellent trip, with interesting & varied places & a great tour manager!
Collected by Trustpilot
Lakes & Dales by Rail
31/Jul
Graham
5 stars
“Lovely area and wonderful tour guide.
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

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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