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Inspiring short breaks
Great escapes to exciting places

Short Breaks

If you'd like to escape for just a few days, look no further than our magnificent selection of short breaks in the Great British Isles and Europe. From a short cultural getaway immersing yourself in the history of medieval Bruges, to a long weekend discovering the outstanding beauty of the Great British Isles, our varied collection of short break holidays mean that no matter how little time you have to spare, you always have time for an exciting getaway. We believe that you shouldn't have to compromise on quality just because you're short on time, so we strive to ensure that our short break itineraries are packed with unforgettable excursions, carefully chosen hotels and many delicious meals.

A short break with Great Rail Journeys puts the world within easy reach; we take care of all arrangements in advance, from travel to accommodation to meals and excursions, so that you can relax with the peace of mind that comes with knowing that every aspect of your holiday is taken care of before your departure. All of our tours include the services of a professional Tour Manager, who will be on hand to guarantee that your time away is as enjoyable and relaxing as possible, and will happily assist you with anything from travel advice to restaurant recommendations.

An escorted rail holiday is a perfect way to experience a destination in a short amount of time, as it makes the journey a part of the adventure. From the moment your tour departs you can sit back and relax, taking in the scenic views as they roll past your window, and socialising with fellow, like-minded passengers.

Find out more with a free brochure and enjoy weekly travel inspiration and offers in our e-newsletter.

19 results matching: Short Breaks

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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 £200pp
4.7 stars(742 reviews)
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 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 £200pp
6 days from
£949 pp £899 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
Save up to £200pp
4.5 stars(567 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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 £200pp
6 days from
£899 pp £849 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
Save up to £200pp
4.3 stars(357 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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...

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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£1,049 pp £949 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
The Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway
Save up to £200pp
4.1 stars(94 reviews)
2026AprMayJunSepOct

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 £200pp
5 days from
£649 pp £599 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Norwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk Broads
Save up to £200pp
4.2 stars(167 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£799 pp £749 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
North Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire Moors
Save up to £200pp
4.1 stars(764 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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 up to £200pp
5 days from
£499 pp £449 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
Save up to £200pp
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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Save up to £200pp
4 days from
£849 pp £799 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Germany Christmas MarketsGermany Christmas MarketsGermany Christmas MarketsGermany Christmas Markets
Save up to £300pp
4.3 stars(35 reviews)
2025NovDec

The Harz Mountains' medieval towns and picturesque landscapes are perfect for soaking up the traditions of Advent in Germany. Join us as we visit three of the region's traditional Christmas markets, UNESCO-listed Old Towns and enjoy a steam train ride through picture-book winter scenery to the summit of the Brocken, Germany's highest summit.

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Save up to £300pp
6 days from
£1,349 pp £1,249 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Keukenhof GardensKeukenhof GardensKeukenhof GardensKeukenhof GardensKeukenhof Gardens
Save up to £300pp
4.6 stars(43 reviews)
2026Apr

Experience the joys of spring in the Netherlands on this glorious break featuring world-famous gardens, picturesque canals and windmills. Based in the attractive city of Utrecht, our holiday is packed with excursions to enchanting locations, including the stunning Keukenhof Gardens - with its swathes of multi-coloured spring flowers - a...

Save up to £300pp
6 days from
£1,899 pp £1,799 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
Save up to £200pp
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...

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Save up to £200pp
4 days from
£899 pp £849 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
YorkYorkYorkYorkYork
Save up to £200pp
2026MayJunJulAugSep

Enjoy a perfect blend of history, natural beauty and Yorkshire charm on this six-day getaway through one of England's most captivating regions. From the ancient city walls of York to the rolling landscapes of the North York Moors, explore the heritage of God's own county on a journey through some of its most iconic sights. Wander through...

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Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£949 pp £899 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake Windemere
Save up to £200pp
4.1 stars(368 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Experience picturesque journeys and leisurely moments in the stunning landscapes of the Lake District. Based in Wetheral, travel on heritage railways, enjoy the striking countryside of the north and delight in the natural beauty of this region. Sail across Windermere to scenic Bowness and the pretty village of Grasmere, once home to William...

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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£699 pp £649 pp
per person
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Our customers love our Short Breaks tours
Railways & Castles of Wales
8/Oct
Gillian Davies
5 stars
“Really enjoyable tour, great location and good hotel. Good tour guide and knowledgeable coach driver. Very good itinerary.
Collected by Trustpilot
Highland Adventure
6/Oct
T Williamson
5 stars
“Very enjoyable,visits well-chosen and the hotel first class .As vegetarians the meals were excellent with good choices.
Collected by Trustpilot
Explore Yorkshire
3/Oct
K S
5 stars
“Very scenic itinerary and local knowledge from coach driver was excellent. Hotel and food very good. Overall good value for money.
Collected by Trustpilot
South Devon, Dartmouth & the English Riviera
3/Oct
Miss Carolyn Jones
5 stars
“Lovely trip and hotel on seafront. Added two days to see Greenways, Agatha Christie’s house and the art deco house owned by D’Oyly Carte Family. Train rides and visit to Dart and Dartmouth very enjoyable.
Collected by Trustpilot
Norwich & the Norfolk Broads
23/Sep
P Holland
5 stars
“Excellent; the tour did what it said on the tin.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & the Highlands
31/Aug
Christine Charie
5 stars
“Good show, well organized and we enjoyed it very much.
Collected by Trustpilot
Keukenhof Tulips, Canals & Amsterdam in Springtime
5/May
Mr Barry Smith
5 stars
“Very good
Collected by Trustpilot
Harz Mountains Christmas Markets
1/Jan
Chris Jenkins
5 stars
“Excellent Christmas Break. Very well organised and managed by the tour manager Andrew.
Collected by Trustpilot
Lakes & Dales by Rail
2/Oct
J Davies
4 stars
“Very good holiday and hotel. Maybe a little too much time on the coach.
Collected by Trustpilot