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Limited time only! Save up to £200pp on selected UK heritage rail tours

Discover the magic of the British Isles

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Norwich & the Norfolk Broads
Norwich & the Norfolk Broads
5 days from £729 pp £629 pp
  • Enjoy Norfolk’s friendly coastal towns, unspoilt nature, nostalgic steam trains
  • Sail along the beautiful Norfolk Broads aboard a Mississippi paddle boat
  • Stay in a boutique hotel set in a quiet conservation area close to Norwich
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Edinburgh Castle
Glasgow & the Highland Adventure
7 days from £1,599 pp £1,399 pp
  • Starting from historic Glasgow, experience the very best of the Scottish Highlands
  • Journey through stunning Highland scenery aboard the iconic Jacobite steam train
  • Enjoy a guided tour of Edinburgh and a cruise across Loch Ness to Urquhart Castle
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Norwich & Norfolk
Norwich & Norfolk
5 days from £579 pp £479 pp
  • Explore historic Norwich and cruise the Norfolk Broads on a Mississippi Riverboat
  • Experience two heritage railways, including the North Norfolk Railway
  • Enjoy 4 nights’ 3-Star accommodation in a central hotel in Norwich
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British Isles holidays

As the days grow longer and colourful blooms blanket our islands, spring is the perfect time to explore the British Isles. From the glens of the Scottish Highlands to the subtropical gardens of the Isle of Scilly, witness the changing of the seasons in beautiful surroundings.

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

Our escorted tours reveal Discover unique sites such as Stonehenge, the charm of the Isle of Man or the castles of Wales on our award-wining holidays.

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

Experience the wonders on your doorstep with our bestselling tours

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Highland Adventure
Double discount!
4.3 stars(377 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£1,099 pp £899 pp
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Conway Castle
Double discount!
4.5 stars(593 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£899 pp £699 pp
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Isle of Man
Double discount!
4.7 stars(632 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£699 pp £599 pp
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ClassicClassic
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
Double discount!
4.7 stars(791 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£899 pp £699 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Double discount!
4.4 stars(143 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
5 days from
£549 pp £449 pp
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Tresco Abbey Gardens
4.5 stars(215 reviews)
2026JulAugSep
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep
9 days from
£2,799 pp
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Norwich & the Norfolk Broads
Double discount!
4.2 stars(177 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunSepOct
5 days from
£729 pp £629 pp
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The Highlands by Steam
Double discount!
4.1 stars(323 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£1,099 pp £899 pp
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43 results matching: UK & Ireland

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Isle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of Man
Double discount!
4.7 stars(632 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

Delve into Celtic legacy as you explore the Isle of Man, travelling on vintage railways, discovering ancient towns and embracing the relaxed lifestyle. Staying in the picturesque capital of Douglas, each day brings something new - from wild landscapes to fascinating history - as you tour famous sights including The Old House of Keys, historic...

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Double discount!
6 days from
£699 pp £599 pp
per person
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Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
Double discount!
4.5 stars(593 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

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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Double discount!
6 days from
£899 pp £699 pp
per person
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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
Double discount!
4.7 stars(791 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

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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Double discount!
6 days from
£899 pp £699 pp
per person
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Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
Double discount!
4.3 stars(377 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

Discover the very best of the Scottish Highlands while soaking up breathtaking scenery aboard the legendary West Highland Line and Strathspey Steam Railway. Along the way, marvel at the towering mountains, shimmering lochs and emerald forests that make up the Scottish landscape. Delve into Scotland's fascinating heritage and rich history with a...

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Double discount!
5 days from
£1,099 pp £899 pp
per person
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North Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire Moors
Save up to £100pp
4.2 stars(783 reviews)
2026JunJulAugSepOct

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 on the...

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Save up to £100pp
5 days from
£429 pp £379 pp
per person
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Yorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & Northumberland
4.2 stars(232 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJulAugSepOct

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 Carr,...

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7 days from
£1,299 pp
per person
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Tresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey Gardens
4.5 stars(215 reviews)
2026JulAugSep
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep

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.     ...

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9 days from
£2,799 pp
per person
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Lake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake Windemere
Save up to £100pp
2026JulAugSepOct

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 £100pp
5 days from
£599 pp £549 pp
per person
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Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
Save up to £100pp
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 £100pp
4 days from
£749 pp £699 pp
per person
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The Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish Stones
Save up to £100pp
4.3 stars(59 reviews)
2026JulSep
2027AprMayJunSep

Discover the wild charm of the Outer Hebrides and the Scottish Highlands on this culture-packed eight-day tour. Journey through Scotland's stunning landscapes, as historic castles, fishing villages and breathtaking natural beauty set the scene. Explore Edinburgh, witness the wonder of modern engineering at the Falkirk Wheel, and experience one of...

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Save up to £100pp
8 days from
£2,049 pp £1,949 pp
per person
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Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
Save up to £100pp
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 journey...

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Save up to £100pp
4 days from
£749 pp £699 pp
per person
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Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
Save up to £100pp
4.3 stars(563 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027MarAprMayJunJul...

Majestic lochs, glorious glens and a rich tapestry of history await as we explore Edinburgh and cross the Highlands. Travelling on the scenic West Highland and Kyle railway lines, we discover ancient castles, sail across glimmering lochs, and stay in historic cities. Wander the fascinating streets of Edinburgh, stand at the foot of Neptune's...

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Save up to £100pp
9 days from
£2,599 pp £2,499 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
Railways & Castles of Wales
9/Jun
Nickie Woodbridge
5 stars
“A super tour, well organised and enjoyed by all. Amazing views and the train trips and castle visits were very interesting. The hotel was very cozy and the staff were all very friendly. The food was delicious and so many choices. Would highly recommend this tour.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Isle of Man
6/Jun
Di
5 stars
“Had a fantastic time in spite of mixed weather. Excursions were excellent and well informed. The hotel was lovely and the food massively exceeded expectations. Would highly recommend.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
5/Jun
McMillan-Shiels
5 stars
“A wonderful relaxing holiday that truly showed the beauty of the Scilly Isles. There was a hiccough on the return journey because of the weather. Great Rail Journeys sorted out the return journey travel and overnight accommodation arrangements. Our tour guide Andy is a real asset to your company; thank...
Collected by Trustpilot
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
5/Jun
D Barker
5 stars
“An excellent tour even though the weather wasn't brilliant. Rebecca was very well informed & organised & was most helpful when there was a problem on the train lines because of works. We'd do it again !
Collected by Trustpilot
Yorkshire & Northumberland
28/May
Jeff
5 stars
“I have already returned a completed review a few days after our memorable enjoyable holiday. please check your records. Sue askew
Collected by Trustpilot
Lewis, Skye & the Highlands of Scotland
19/May
John Hill
5 stars
“An excellent and informative tour, very well led and with lovely weather. All logistics worked out well
Collected by Trustpilot
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & the Highlands
31 Aug 2025
Christine Charie
5 stars
“Good show, well organized and we enjoyed it very much.
Collected by Trustpilot
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
6/Jun
M Beattie
4 stars
“Good itinerary. Nice friendly tour manager. Good hotel with good food. Only negative te hotel bar was in the restaurant not in a separate lounge so difficult to get predinner drink before going into restaurant.
Collected by Trustpilot
Highland Adventure
31/May
Ann
4 stars
“Good Hotel with good food and comfortable rooms . We enjoyed our trips out especially the cruise on Loch Ness and the visit to the Loch Ness Experience. Our Tour Guide Sharon was well organised, friendly and had a very good rapport with the customers. We were disappointed there was...
Collected by Trustpilot

Our Guide to the British Isles

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!

Read more

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.

Read more

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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