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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

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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
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Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
4.7 stars(723 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...

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6 days from
£849 pp £749 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak District
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The Peak District
4.1 stars(164 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...

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5 days from
£549 pp £449 pp
per person
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The Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by Steam
Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
4.2 stars(283 reviews)
2025SepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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 enjoy a nostalgic trip on the Jacobite steam train, widely considered to be one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. ...

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6 days from
£949 pp
per person
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Cotswolds & The Severn Valley
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...

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5 days from
£499 pp
per person
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YorkYorkYorkYorkYork
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Glorious Yorkshire
2025Oct
2026MayJunJulAugSep

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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6 days from
£849 pp £749 pp
per person
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Lighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the Needles
No Single Supplement
Isle of Wight
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...

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No Single Supplement
5 days from
£749 pp
per person
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Norwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & Norfolk
Norwich & Norfolk
4.3 stars(374 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...

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5 days from
£529 pp
per person
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Stonehenge at SunsetStonehenge at SunsetStonehenge at SunsetStonehenge at SunsetStonehenge at Sunset
Ancient Stones & Treasures of Wiltshire
4.7 stars(17 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...

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7 days from
£1,299 pp
per person
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The Aberdonian Steam Train - © Alan WeaverThe Aberdonian Steam Train - © Alan WeaverThe Aberdonian Steam Train - © Alan WeaverThe Aberdonian Steam Train - © Alan WeaverThe Aberdonian Steam Train - © Alan Weaver
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Royal Deeside & Glamis Castle
3.7 stars(46 reviews)
2025Sep

We visit three of Scotland's most charismatic cities, experiencing the local culture of Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Dundee. Visit Glamis Castle and journey along the banks of the River Dee aboard the Royal Deeside Railway. This five-day holiday is scattered with unique excursions. Meet iconic Highland coos, savour the craft of gin at the Lost Loch...

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5 days from
£1,099 pp £999 pp
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The Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway
South Devon, Dartmouth & the English Riviera
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. ...

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5 days from
£599 pp
per person
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Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & Floors Castle
4.3 stars(82 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
£799 pp
per person
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LuxuryLuxury
DerwentwaterDerwentwaterDerwentwaterDerwentwaterDerwentwater
Belmond Britannic Explorer – Lake District

Immerse yourself in the great outdoors on an exquisite holiday to the Lake District, a land revered for its unparalleled beauty. Aboard the Britannic Explorer, savour meticulously crafted, sustainable cuisine in our refined dining cars and unwind in the luxury of your private suite, pausing only to step into the warmth, heritage and quiet...

4 days from
£6,300 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK Short Breaks tours
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & Floors Castle
20/Aug
Terri Monisteri
5 stars
“Excellent!
Collected by Trustpilot
The Peak District
20/Aug
D Willoughby
5 stars
“Overall it was a great experience, very well organised with a lot of interesting things to see. Evening meals were a little slow on the first night but it got it's act together after that.
Collected by Trustpilot
Ancient Stones & Treasures of Wiltshire
19/Aug
Chris
5 stars
“A wonderful and interesting itinerary based around Salisbury. Even a last-minute change of castle visits didn't matter as the substitute was an unusual but worthy replacement. The preferred transport provider - Pewsey Vale Coaches - provided a new 25-plate midibus for our small party group and having the same (excellent)...
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Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
19/Aug
Onion
5 stars
“Everything about our experience on the Isle Of Mann was well organised, most enjoyable and interesting. Would recommend.
Collected by Trustpilot
Norwich & Norfolk
17/Aug
Carole Mansell
5 stars
“Varied itinerary, excellent tour manager and coach service in a lovely part of England.
Collected by Trustpilot
Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
13/Aug
Bradbury
5 stars
“I thought I had done this already. It was brilliant!
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
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
Cotswolds & The Severn Valley
29/Jun
N Bell
5 stars
“good hotel in good part of town. Outings were well arranged.
Collected by Trustpilot