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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
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
6 days from £799 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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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(316 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(780 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
5 days from
£429 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Peak District
4.1 stars(185 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
5 days from
£479 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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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
Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
4.5 stars(579 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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6 days from
£899 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
4.3 stars(374 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct
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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5 days from
£1,049 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
The Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish Stones
4.2 stars(55 reviews)
2026JulSep

Discover the wild charm of the Outer Hebrides and the Scottish Highlands on this culture-packed eight-day tour. Journey through Scotland's stunning landscapes, as historic castles, fishing villages and breathtaking natural beauty set the scene. Explore Edinburgh, witness the wonder of modern engineering at the Falkirk Wheel, and experience one of...

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8 days from
£1,949 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
The Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway
4.4 stars(229 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

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
£679 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
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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4 days from
£779 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Tresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey Gardens
4.5 stars(208 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSep
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. While exploring...

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9 days from
£2,399 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(558 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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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak District
4.1 stars(185 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct

Uncover some of rural England's most picturesque landscapes on a scenic journey through Derbyshire and the Peak District. Visit the elegant spa town of Buxton with a local guide and learn about its Roman origins. Explore Bakewell's historic buildings and perhaps sample one of its famous desserts, before visiting the magnificent Chatsworth House...

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5 days from
£479 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
11/May
Gareth
5 stars
“although a “busy” holiday things never seemed too rushed. Scenery was great especially as the sun was shining most of the week
Collected by Trustpilot
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
10/May
Sue
5 stars
“Brilliant trip to beautiful Isles.
Collected by Trustpilot
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
Railways & Castles of Wales
7/May
customer
5 stars
“Excellent holiday.
Collected by Trustpilot
Valleys & Railways of Mid Wales
5/May
C Thornton
5 stars
“We thoroughly enjoyed our experience. The hotel was really good; our daily excursions were perfect, including a steam train ride each day; the coach driver did an amazing job and we would especially like to praise our tour guide who did a wonderful job. She had a quiet sense of...
Collected by Trustpilot
The Peak District
4/May
Christine Vince
5 stars
“We really enjoyed our trip to the dales. Interesting and varied activities. Good amount of down time, first class hotel. The breakfasts were great and we enjoyed the evening meals. Our tour rep Joe R was excellent and innovative (the impromptu quiz!).
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
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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