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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.

16 results matching: Short Breaks

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ClassicClassic
Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
Save up to £200pp
4.3 stars(319 reviews)
2025MarAprMayJunJul...

From Inverness, the gateway to our Highland adventure, we discover the very best of northern Scotland. Soak up breathtaking scenery as we travel aboard magnificent mainline and steam railways, including the legendary Jacobite Steam Train and charming Strathspey Steam Railway. Along the way, we marvel at the towering mountains, shimmering lochs,...

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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£899 pp £799 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
Save up to £200pp
4.4 stars(493 reviews)
2025AprMayJunJulAug...

On this nostalgic escape, we 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...

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Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£799 pp £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
Save up to £200pp
4.7 stars(650 reviews)
2025AprMayJunJulAug...

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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Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£799 pp £699 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Cologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas Markets
Save £300pp
4.5 stars(147 reviews)
2025NovDec

Feel the spirit of Christmas on this cruise along the beautiful Rhine. Discovering Germany at the most magical time of the year we stop at traditional Christmas markets along the way. Strolling through the stalls, admire the craftsmanship of local artisans and savour the flavours that define the season. On board, soak up the natural beauty of the...

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Save £300pp
5 days from
£1,199 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
Save up to £200pp
4.5 stars(41 reviews)
2025Aug

A fantastic short break culminating in the iconic extravaganza of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, with pipes and drums resonating from the castle's elevated setting. Based in charming Dunblane, peacefully situated in the Perthshire countryside, this wonderful Scottish holiday also includes a heritage steam train journey through the Cairngorms, a...

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Save up to £200pp
4 days from
£799 pp £699 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(712 reviews)
2025AprMayJunJulAug...

Discover Yorkshire on this picturesque getaway by rail. With timeless towns and cities, Yorkshire is packed with rural landscapes, ancient streets, and diverse architecture, just waiting for you to explore. After checking into your hotel in the elegant town of Harrogate and visiting the coastal town of Whitby, enjoy a journey on the North...

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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£429 pp £379 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake Windemere
Save up to £200pp
4.1 stars(325 reviews)
2025AprMayJunJulAug...
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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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£599 pp £549 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(151 reviews)
2025AprMayJulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Discover timeless seaside towns, experience Norfolk's wonderful wildlife, and explore Sandringham - one of the best-loved stately homes of the British Royal Family - on this delightful holiday. From our elegant boutique hotel, restored from a Victorian townhouse in a quiet conservation area in Norwich, we explore the pretty waterways of the...

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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£799 pp £699 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(87 reviews)
2025AprMayJunJulSep

Experience the relaxed charm of the English Riviera on a holiday which features nostalgic journeys aboard heritage railways and a traditional boat cruise. Staying in Paignton, a jewel in the crown of the English Riviera, this traditional seaside town creates the perfect base, with beautiful views across the seafront.

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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£599 pp £499 pp
per person
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Castle HowardCastle HowardCastle HowardCastle HowardCastle Howard
Save up to £200pp
4.0 stars(47 reviews)
2025AprMayJunAugSepOct

Relax in 'God's Own Country', discovering the wonders of Yorkshire's beloved countryside from a luxurious country house hotel on the edge of the North York Moors National Park. Explore the glorious Yorkshire Moors and Yorkshire Dales, taking a guided tour of the quirky fishing village, Robin Hood's Bay, sampling traditional local cuisine,...

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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£899 pp £799 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
Save up to £200pp
4.4 stars(72 reviews)
2025Aug

Attend the sensational Edinburgh Tattoo display, with pipes and drums resonating from the castle's elevated setting. From our base in Peebles, enjoy a heritage journey on the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway, visit Floors Castle for a traditional afternoon tea, and see the Kelpies. Each moment on this Edinburgh Tattoo holiday is designed to leave you...

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Save up to £200pp
4 days from
£749 pp £699 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
YorkYorkYorkYorkYork
Save up to £200pp
2025AprMayJunJulSep

History, natural beauty and Yorkshire charm come together on this six-day getaway. From the ancient city walls of York to the rolling landscapes of the North Yorkshire Moors, explore the heritage of God's own county. Explore grand gardens, historic abbeys, and seaside towns, while enjoying local delicacies. This expert itinerary is an ideal mix...

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Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£749 pp £649 pp
per person
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Our customers love our Short Breaks tours
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
Bavarian Christmas Markets
30 Dec 2024
Mr Protheroe
5 stars
“It was an excellent trip with a fantastic tour manager
Collected by Trustpilot
Explore Yorkshire
12 Nov 2024
Robert Robson
5 stars
“Very enjoyable and interesting 4 night break. Harrogate an excellent base. Hotel couldn't be faulted, food very good and plentiful. Ample free parking, which made for a stress free break. Friendly, helpful staff. Very skilled, knowledgeable and experienced coach driver and courier. Excellent value.
Collected by Trustpilot
Highland Adventure
28 Oct 2024
Wendy Langley
5 stars
“An excellent tour that was well planned with a great itinerary. Our tour guide Garth had a lot of knowledge that he passed on, giving us lots of information and history. He was great.
Collected by Trustpilot
Railways and Castles of Wales
28 Oct 2024
Sandra
5 stars
“A most enjoyable experience that lived up to expectations.
Collected by Trustpilot
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
27 Oct 2024
John Thwaites
5 stars
“Nothing went wrong but we would have preferred not having to walk to the hotel when we arrived.
Collected by Trustpilot
Yorkshire Dales and Moors
15 Oct 2024
Lesley
5 stars
“Enjoyable and interesting tour, especially the last day in the dales . The hotel was very good , with excellent breakfasts and h er loful staff .
Collected by Trustpilot
Royal Deeside and Glamis Castle
16 Sep 2024
Doreen Guest
5 stars
“The tour was very well organised and ran very smoothly, helped by an extremely good friendly guide who engaged fully with all the group. The visits were very good particularly Glamis Castle and also the Highland cow farm and the gin distillery. The only disappointment was the failure of Tornado...
Collected by Trustpilot
Edinburgh Tattoo & Floors Castle
06 Sep 2024
Gordon Howat
5 stars
“Very good trip
Collected by Trustpilot