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Discover the breathtaking landscapes and heritage rail of the British Isles

Experience the charms of the British Isles

DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Highlands by Steam
Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
6 days from £1,149 pp £1,049 pp
  • Enjoy Edinburgh before exploring Scotland's lochs, mountains and glens
  • Travel the West Highland Line on the world famous Jacobite Steam Train
  • Spend 5 nights in 3-star hotels in Edinburgh and Blair Atholl
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
North Yorkshire Moors
Explore Yorkshire
5 days from £449 pp £399 pp
  • Discover Yorkshire's delightful towns, rural landscapes, and heritage railways
  • Journey on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, and visit the coastal town of Whitby
  • Enjoy 4-Star hotel accommodation in the elegant spa town of Harrogate
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake Windemere
Lakes & Dales by Rail
5 days from £699 pp £599 pp
  • Discover the panoramas of northern England, journeying on heritage railways
  • Take a cruise across Lake Windermere to Bowness and picturesque Grasmere
  • Enjoy 4 nights’ 4-star accommodation in the beautiful village of Wetheral
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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 breathtaking landscapes and heritage railways

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Conway Castle
Save up to £100pp
4.5 stars(572 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct
6 days from
£899 pp £799 pp
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ClassicClassic
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
Save up to £100pp
4.7 stars(756 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£849 pp £749 pp
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ClassicClassic
Highland Adventure
Save up to £100pp
4.3 stars(364 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct
5 days from
£1,049 pp £949 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Isle of Man
Save up to £100pp
4.7 stars(593 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct
6 days from
£729 pp £629 pp
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Tresco Abbey Gardens
Save up to £100pp
4.5 stars(204 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSep
9 days from
£2,699 pp £2,599 pp
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Scottish Highlands
Save up to £100pp
4.3 stars(553 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct
2027MarAprMayJunJul...
9 days from
£2,599 pp £2,499 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake Windemere
Save up to £100pp
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct
5 days from
£699 pp £599 pp
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Skye, Orkney and the Wild North
Save up to £100pp
4.4 stars(88 reviews)
2026MayJunAugSepOct
8 days from
£2,099 pp £1,999 pp
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40 results matching: UK & Ireland

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ClassicClassic
Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
Save up to £100pp
4.5 stars(572 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct

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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Save up to £100pp
6 days from
£899 pp £799 pp
per person
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Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
Save up to £100pp
4.3 stars(364 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct

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 in time...

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Save up to £100pp
5 days from
£1,049 pp £949 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
Save up to £100pp
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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Save up to £100pp
6 days from
£849 pp £749 pp
per person
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Isle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of Man
Save up to £100pp
4.7 stars(593 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct

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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Save up to £100pp
6 days from
£729 pp £629 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(775 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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
£449 pp £399 pp
per person
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The Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak District
Save up to £100pp
4.1 stars(180 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct

Uncover some of rural England's most picturesque landscapes on a scenic journey through Derbyshire and the Peak District. Visit the elegant spa town of Buxton with a local guide and learn about its Roman origins. Explore Bakewell's historic buildings and perhaps sample one of its famous desserts, before visiting the magnificent Chatsworth House...

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Save up to £100pp
5 days from
£479 pp £429 pp
per person
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Skye, Orkney and the Wild NorthSkye, Orkney and the Wild NorthSkye, Orkney and the Wild NorthSkye, Orkney and the Wild NorthSkye, Orkney and the Wild North
Save up to £100pp
4.4 stars(88 reviews)
2026MayJunAugSepOct

Let the rugged beauty of Scotland capture your heart on this seven-night holiday. Starting in Glasgow, journey through stunning landscapes to Scotland's mystic north. Tour the Orkney Islands and discover ancient Neolithic sites including Skara Brae and marvel at the beauty of the great houses of the northern Highlands, Dunrobin and Dunvegan. ...

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Save up to £100pp
8 days from
£2,099 pp £1,999 pp
per person
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Fermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay Guernsey
Save up to £100pp
4.6 stars(80 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSep

Uncover the hidden charm of the Channel Islands on a scenic escape to Guernsey, Jersey and Sark, a trio of isles brimming with natural beauty and fascinating heritage. Explore the dramatic coastline and historic sites with local guides, from the poignant Jersey War Tunnels to the timeless Castle Cornet in Guernsey. Admire tranquil bays that once...

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Save up to £100pp
7 days from
£1,799 pp £1,699 pp
per person
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Tresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey Gardens
Save up to £100pp
4.5 stars(204 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSep

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 exploring...

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Save up to £100pp
9 days from
£2,699 pp £2,599 pp
per person
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Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
Save up to £100pp
4.3 stars(553 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct

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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Yorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & Northumberland
Save up to £100pp
4.2 stars(226 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct

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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Save up to £100pp
7 days from
£1,399 pp £1,299 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Save up to £100pp
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 up to £100pp
5 days from
£549 pp £449 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK & Ireland email lander tours
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
30/Mar
Suzanne Skippage
5 stars
“Excellent customer service pre trip - always kept updated. Brilliant Tour Manager who took care of every detail including alternative when weather ruled out a boat trip due to high winds. Wonderful speakers who really made the history of this glorious land live. I can’t speak highly enough of the...
Collected by Trustpilot
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
28 Oct 2025
N Morgan
5 stars
“We had a great time !
Collected by Trustpilot
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
23 Oct 2025
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 2025
JanetJones
5 stars
“Brilliant holiday and the tour manager was excellent
Collected by Trustpilot
Yorkshire & Northumberland
23 Oct 2025
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 2025
Customer
5 stars
“All went well.
Collected by Trustpilot
Cotswolds & The Severn Valley
14 Oct 2025
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...
Collected by Trustpilot
Skye, Orkney & the Wild North
02 Oct 2025
Cynthia Dalsing
5 stars
“A grand trip! Les was a fun guide and really relaxed into the trip. I loved his expertise and wit he had, helped us all relax. Although the schedule was full I didn’t mind it. I would skip stopping at Brogdar and put time into skara brae, even if the...
Collected by Trustpilot
Explore Yorkshire
08 Nov 2025
Christine M
4 stars
“I enjoyed this holiday. The hotel in Harrogate was rather 'corporate' ( right next to the Conference Centre), but it was clean and comfortable and the food was lovely- Yorkshire specialities , and generous portions . It was also central to Harrogate, and walking distance from the station. Our Guide,...
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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