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Discover the magic of the British Isles

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York
Glorious Yorkshire
6 days from £829 pp £729 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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Norwich & Norfolk
Norwich & Norfolk
5 days from £549 pp £449 pp
  • Explore historic Norwich and cruise the Norfolk Broads on a Mississippi Riverboat
  • Experience two heritage railways, including the North Norfolk Railway
  • Enjoy 4 nights’ 3-Star accommodation in a central hotel in Norwich
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Highland Adventure
Highland Adventure
5 days from £1,099 pp £999 pp
  • Explore the beautiful Scottish Highlands, staying in luxurious 4-Star hotels
  • Board the famous Jacobite Steam Train for a scenic journey to Mallaig
  • Enjoy a trip along the stunning Kyle Line to view Eilean Donan Castle
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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

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Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
Save £100pp
4.7 stars(804 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£949 pp £849 pp
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Lake Windemere
Save £100pp
2026AugSepOct
5 days from
£649 pp £549 pp
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Corfe Castle
Save £100pp
4.2 stars(77 reviews)
2026SepOct
5 days from
£649 pp £549 pp
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Isle of Man
Save £100pp
4.7 stars(649 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£699 pp £599 pp
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Tresco Abbey Gardens
4.6 stars(237 reviews)
2026AugSep
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep
9 days from
£2,799 pp
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The Callanish Stones
Save £100pp
4.3 stars(59 reviews)
2026Sep
2027AprMayJunSep
8 days from
£2,099 pp £1,999 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Highlands by Steam
Save £100pp
4.2 stars(333 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£1,299 pp £1,199 pp
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Ring of Brodgar
4.2 stars(97 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep
8 days from
£3,299 pp
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42 results matching: UK & Ireland

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Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
Save £100pp
4.6 stars(633 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
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...

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Save £100pp
6 days from
£899 pp £799 pp
per person
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Isle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of Man
Save £100pp
4.7 stars(649 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
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,...

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Save £100pp
6 days from
£699 pp £599 pp
per person
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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 £100pp
4.7 stars(804 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
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 £100pp
6 days from
£949 pp £849 pp
per person
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Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
Save £100pp
4.3 stars(417 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...

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Save £100pp
5 days from
£1,099 pp £999 pp
per person
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The Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak District
Save £100pp
4.2 stars(200 reviews)
2026AugSepOct

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...

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Save £100pp
5 days from
£449 pp £349 pp
per person
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North Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire Moors
Save £100pp
4.2 stars(799 reviews)
2026AugSepOct

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 £100pp
5 days from
£449 pp £349 pp
per person
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Yorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & Northumberland
4.3 stars(239 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
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 ...

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7 days from
£1,299 pp
per person
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Tresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey Gardens
4.6 stars(237 reviews)
2026AugSep
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
Save £100pp
4.5 stars(60 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 £100pp
4 days from
£749 pp £649 pp
per person
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Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
Save £100pp
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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Save £100pp
4 days from
£749 pp £649 pp
per person
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The Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish Stones
Save £100pp
4.3 stars(59 reviews)
2026Sep
2027AprMayJunSep

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...

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Save £100pp
8 days from
£2,099 pp £1,999 pp
per person
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The Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by Steam
Save £100pp
4.2 stars(333 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

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 soak up epic landscapes on the West Highland Line to Mallaig, widely considered to be one of the most scenic rail routes in the...

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Save £100pp
6 days from
£1,299 pp £1,199 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
The Isle of Man
13/Jul
Mr Champness
5 stars
“With ongoing climate change a first class holiday package for the discerning mature traveller looking for scenery culture and the good life without the hassle of UK airports.
Collected by Trustpilot
Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
12/Jul
Sarah Skelham
5 stars
“Excellent holiday. Disappointed in hotel in Edinburgh. Just a scrap of paper stuck to room door with sellotape which was peeling off. Hotel staff unfriendly and rude
Collected by Trustpilot
Explore Yorkshire
12/Jul
Anthony Sebire
5 stars
“Had a great time with great people.
Collected by Trustpilot
Railways & Castles of Wales
10/Jul
Rob Davidson
5 stars
“A wide range of Railways and Castles to suit everyone. We reached the summit of Snowden on a sunny day with magnificent views and the Festiniog Railway puffing around the old slate mines. I suppose on a personal note that l was disappointed we joined the Welsh Highland Railway at...
Collected by Trustpilot
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
8/Jul
Ray Newby
5 stars
“A very good holiday with a super tour manager in David. The tour showed us most of this island. There was plenty to see and the pace of the tour was very well balanced. We had a free day on the Sunday to do our own thing as well. The...
Collected by Trustpilot
Lewis, Skye & the Highlands of Scotland
19/May
John Hill
5 stars
“An excellent and informative tour, very well led and with lovely weather. All logistics worked out well
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
The Peak District
12/Jul
DAVID TAYLOR
4 stars
“excellent apart from poor menu choices available for dinner
Collected by Trustpilot
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
10/Jul
Angela Bell
4 stars
“Magical! I loved the Scilly Isles.
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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