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Discover the delights of the British Isles

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Tresco Abbey Gardens
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
9 days from £2,999 pp £2,949 pp
  • Discover a paradise of clear azure waters, white-sand beaches and historic towns
  • Experience a unique small group holiday based on the main island of St Mary's
  • Uncover Tresco Abbey's gardens and the islands of St Agnes and St Martin's
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ClassicClassic
Skye, Orkney and the Wild North
Skye, Orkney & the Wild North
8 days from £2,349 pp £2,299 pp
  • Discover the isles of Orkney and Skye, on a small group tour with 4-Star hotels
  • Spend time at two of the north’s greatest castles, Dunrobin and Dunvegan
  • View Loch Lomond and the Trossachs on the West Highland Line
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ClassicClassic
Fermain Bay Guernsey
The Charms of the Channel Islands
7 days from £1,899 pp £1,849 pp
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British Isles Escorted Rail Holidays

From the Scottish Highlands to the Isles of Scilly, the British Isles has centuries of history, culture and stunning landscapes to uncover. Explore historic cities, journey on celebrated heritage railways across ancient landscapes and sail to untouched islands such as Skye, Orkney, or the Isle of Wight.

Our escorted tours reveal many treasures of the British Isles and Ireland. Wherever you wish to explore, from the remote Outer Hebrides and the Scottish Glens, Yorkshire and Northumberland to Dublin and the Enchanting Emerald Isle, we have a tour to match.

Discover unique sites such as the Ancient Stones & Treasures of Wiltshire and other inspiring destinations in England, Scotland and Wales all year round, or consider one of our ever-popular seasonal Christmas tours for a truly memorable festive season.

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

Best Selling Holidays in the British Isles

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Highland Adventure
Save £50pp
4.3 stars(364 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£1,049 pp £999 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake Windemere
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4.1 stars(380 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£699 pp £649 pp
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ClassicClassic
Stonehenge at Sunset
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4.7 stars(21 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSep
7 days from
£1,349 pp £1,299 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
North Yorkshire Moors
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4.1 stars(776 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£479 pp £429 pp
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ClassicClassic
The Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway
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4.3 stars(222 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£799 pp £749 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Corfe Castle
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4.0 stars(63 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulSepOct
5 days from
£649 pp £599 pp
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Fermain Bay Guernsey
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4.6 stars(80 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAugSep
7 days from
£1,899 pp £1,849 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lighthouse at the Needles
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4.3 stars(120 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSep
6 days from
£729 pp
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46 results matching: UK & Ireland

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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
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4.7 stars(756 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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6 days from
£949 pp £899 pp
per person
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Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
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4.3 stars(364 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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5 days from
£1,049 pp £999 pp
per person
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Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
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4.5 stars(572 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...

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6 days from
£949 pp £899 pp
per person
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Tresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey Gardens
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4.5 stars(204 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAugSep

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. While...

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9 days from
£2,999 pp £2,949 pp
per person
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The Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by Steam
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4.2 stars(308 reviews)
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
£1,099 pp £1,049 pp
per person
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Stonehenge at SunsetStonehenge at SunsetStonehenge at SunsetStonehenge at SunsetStonehenge at Sunset
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4.7 stars(21 reviews)
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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Save £50pp
7 days from
£1,349 pp £1,299 pp
per person
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Yorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & Northumberland
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4.2 stars(226 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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
£1,399 pp £1,349 pp
per person
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Walworth CastleWalworth CastleWalworth CastleWalworth CastleWalworth Castle
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4.4 stars(123 reviews)
2026MayJunSep

Experience the historic cathedral city of Durham on this five-night break, based at the majestic 12th-century Walworth Castle in the heart of County Durham. Discover some of the region's most famous landmarks, such as Chesters Roman Fort and Hadrian's Wall, and step back in time to other historic periods during visits to the captivating...

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6 days from
£849 pp £799 pp
per person
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YorkYorkYorkYorkYork
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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 £50pp
6 days from
£949 pp £899 pp
per person
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Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
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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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4 days from
£899 pp £849 pp
per person
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Lighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the NeedlesLighthouse at the Needles
Save £50pp
4.3 stars(120 reviews)
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,...

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Save £50pp
6 days from
£729 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Save £50pp
4.4 stars(136 reviews)
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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Save £50pp
5 days from
£549 pp £499 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
3/Nov
Philip
5 stars
“To add the Falkirk Wheel and the Kelpies to the program widened the scope of it in a good way. The variety of activity was also a plus. And the tour leader, Liz, was excellent. I felt the attempt to introduce us to Scottish food did not hit the mark,...
Collected by Trustpilot
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
28/Oct
N Morgan
5 stars
“We had a great time !
Collected by Trustpilot
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
23/Oct
Michael Anthony
5 stars
“Lovely trip to the Isles of Scilly. Excellent tour manager who coped brilliantly after a return flight delay.
Collected by Trustpilot
Railways & Castles of Wales
23/Oct
JanetJones
5 stars
“Brilliant holiday and the tour manager was excellent
Collected by Trustpilot
Yorkshire & Northumberland
23/Oct
Mr John Coleman
5 stars
“A full few days experience, but just a great way to taste the experience of Northern England
Collected by Trustpilot
Highland Adventure
21/Oct
Customer
5 stars
“All went well.
Collected by Trustpilot
Cotswolds & The Severn Valley
14/Oct
Stuart Davis
5 stars
“Nice holiday,the railway trips were the highlight,felt disappointed with seven valley where they weren’t running any steam engines at all just diesels! Hotel was nice except for swimming pool and sauna refurbishment works as we swim every day to be told they were out of action three days before.Our guide...
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Isle of Wight
10/Oct
Neville Anderson
5 stars
“It was our first visit to the Isle of Wight and we were captivated; what a beautiful island. Too much to see, yet too little time to fully explore. St. Mildred's Church at Whippingham; Osborne House; the model village at Godshill to name but a few........
Collected by Trustpilot
Ancient Stones & Treasures of Wiltshire
27/Sep
Sharon
5 stars
“I've given this holiday a 5?rating as we very much enjoyed it, but it wasn't without the occasional problem. As a new holiday for this year, it clearly needs a little tweaking. Despite the bad weather, with a lot of rain, I think we were lucky to dodge...
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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!

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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.

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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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