01904 521 936
Tour Search



UK Short Breaks by Escorted Rail

With so many ideal holiday destinations on your doorstep, the United Kingdom is a fantastic place for a short break by rail. After all, the British Isles are packed with exciting towns and cities, a wealth of outstanding scenery and a rich cultural heritage. From the Cornish coast to the Shetland Islands, and from the Scottish Highlands to the Isle of Man and the Norfolk Broads, our UK short breaks are filled with places you "always wanted to visit" but never got around to.

Whether you'd like a brief getaway in the old-world city of Canterbury, or would prefer a short break amongst the rugged mountains of the Lake District, all of our UK short breaks all begin in towns and cities that are easily accessible by rail. So, you can leave the car behind and let the train take the strain, meaning that your holiday begins at your local station.

We explore every corner of the British Isles on our UK short breaks, and each individual place is filled with local myths, legends and attractions for you to explore. Naturally the included excursions differ according to the region visited, but they all give a wonderful insight into the area and cover the most famous sights - whether this is the magnificent York Minster, the fantastic castles along the North Wales coastline or the impressive SS Great Britain in Bristol Harbour.

Of course, our UK short breaks also all include some fantastic railway journeys. As well as some of the world's most scenic routes such as the West Highland Line, on our UK short breaks we also feature a number of classic heritage railways. We are proud to support these lines, most of which use restored steam engines and vintage rolling stock - allowing you to take a nostalgic trip back in time to relive the bygone age of the railway. Often these lines pass through some magnificent scenery and connect idyllic countryside villages along the way, which we take the time to visit.

Our UK short breaks by rail are simple, stress-free holidays, which represent superb value for money. With such a comprehensive and varied range of tours to choose from, you are bound to be drawn to our collection of UK short breaks by rail.

If you want to learn more about the stunning railways of the UK, discover Coastal Railways with Julie Walters. More information can be found here.

17 results matching: UK Short Breaks by Escorted Rail

Filters
Any
Reset
Any
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
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 £100pp
4.7 stars(716 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...

View map

Save £100pp
6 days from
£849 pp £749 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
Save £100pp
4.3 stars(342 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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,...

View map

Save £100pp
5 days from
£1,099 pp £999 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Norwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & Norfolk
4.3 stars(371 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Discover the rich heritage and natural beauty of Norfolk and Norwich on a journey filled with historic railways, waterways and royal charm. Explore the medieval city of Norwich on a guided tour, cruise along the Norfolk Broads on a Mississippi paddle boat and step back in time on scenic journeys with the Mid and North Norfolk railways. We also...

View map

5 days from
£529 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by Steam
Save £100pp
4.2 stars(280 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Journey through the iconic landscapes and culture of Scotland aboard the country's spectacular railways. From the city of Edinburgh to the Cairngorm Mountain, every day is a new experience on this five-day tour. Explore towering sculptures, discover towns and castles, journey on the world-famous Jacobite Steam Train, and experience the...

View map

Save £100pp
6 days from
£1,049 pp £949 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the Needles
No Single Supplement
4.3 stars(112 reviews)
2025Sep
2026MayJunJulAugSep

Enjoy a six-day holiday to the charming Isle of Wight where half the island is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Based in Sandown, savour sweeping coastal views and easy access to the island's most iconic sights. Step back in time at Carisbrooke Castle and explore the elegant Osborne House, Queen Victoria's beloved retreat, and...

View map

No Single Supplement
5 days from
£749 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak District
Save £100pp
4.1 stars(158 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...

View map

Save £100pp
5 days from
£549 pp £449 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
4.4 stars(72 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...

View map

4 days from
£799 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
4.5 stars(39 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...

View map

4 days from
£899 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Stonehenge at SunsetStonehenge at SunsetStonehenge at SunsetStonehenge at SunsetStonehenge at Sunset
4.6 stars(14 reviews)
2025Sep
2026MayJunJulAugSep

Discover the ancient stones and monuments of Wiltshire on a tour that takes in the breadth of British history. Explore Stonehenge on an exclusive sunset experience inside the stone circle, marvel at the Neolithic wonders of Avebury and uncover the many treasures of Salisbury, spanning the Bronze Age, Iron Age and Roman periods. Based in...

View map

7 days from
£1,299 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
4.4 stars(125 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct

From picture-postcard villages and lush rolling meadows to gentle waterways and historic steam railways, discover quintessential English charm and beauty in abundance on this holiday to one of the most scenic parts of the UK, the Cotswolds. Explore timber-framed Tudor buildings and the stunning cathedral in Worcester, and discover the charming...

View map

5 days from
£499 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
YorkYorkYorkYorkYork
2025SepOct
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 elegant...

View map

6 days from
£899 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
The Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway
4.1 stars(92 reviews)
2025Sep
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. ...

View map

5 days from
£599 pp
per person
View Details
Our customers love our UK Short Breaks tours
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
4/Aug
David Greaves
5 stars
“Well looked after from first arriving at Heysham Ferry terminal. Maria was like a mother hen from start to finish of the holiday and was there when needed. Our hotel was fantastic, The Claremont on the promenade BUT now it appears to have changed to The Ascott set back from...
Collected by Trustpilot
Royal Deeside & Glamis Castle
2/Aug
J Wylie
5 stars
“It was a very pleasant ride, hopefully the volunteers will eventually be able to restore more of the line. They were very informative and let us look in the engine and provided us with tea and biscuits. Unfortunately we did not experience the steam engine but a different old engine, non...
Collected by Trustpilot
The Peak District
29/Jul
P Woods
5 stars
“A wonderful discovery of a part of the Country that had previously been unknown to me, other than from pictures and stories
Collected by Trustpilot
Norwich & Norfolk
27/Jul
J Veillard
5 stars
“Good, though he evening meals could have been better o tnis trip
Collected by Trustpilot
Isle of Wight
24/Jul
Allpak & Co
5 stars
“Great tour manager all laid on thus no worries could relax and enjoy the break
Collected by Trustpilot
Ancient Stones & Treasures of Wiltshire
24/Jul
Mr R Halliwell
5 stars
“Good trip, well organised Highlights Stonehenge and Salisbury Cathedral
Collected by Trustpilot
Cotswolds & The Severn Valley
29/Jun
N Bell
5 stars
“good hotel in good part of town. Outings were well arranged.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & Floors Castle
06 Sep 2024
Gordon Howat
5 stars
“Very good trip
Collected by Trustpilot
Highland Adventure
4/Aug
mark lewis
4 stars
“Great time
Collected by Trustpilot