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Experience the charms of the British Isles

DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Highlands by Steam
Double discount!
4.2 stars(308 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£1,099 pp £999 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Isle of Man
Double discount!
4.7 stars(593 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£679 pp £579 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
North Yorkshire Moors
Double discount!
4.2 stars(775 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£479 pp £379 pp
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ClassicClassic
Highland Adventure
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4.3 stars(364 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£899 pp £849 pp
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ClassicClassic
Conway Castle
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4.5 stars(572 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£849 pp £799 pp
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Corfe Castle
Double discount!
4.0 stars(63 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulSepOct
5 days from
£629 pp £529 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Peak District
Double discount!
4.1 stars(180 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£549 pp £449 pp
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ClassicClassic
Skye, Orkney and the Wild North
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4.4 stars(88 reviews)
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct
8 days from
£1,979 pp £1,929 pp
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British Isles holidays

British Isles 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.

44 results matching: UK & Ireland

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ClassicClassic
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
£849 pp £799 pp
per person
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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
£849 pp £799 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
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
£899 pp £849 pp
per person
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Isle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of Man
Double discount!
4.7 stars(593 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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,...

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Double discount!
6 days from
£679 pp £579 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by SteamThe Highlands by Steam
Double discount!
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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Double discount!
6 days from
£1,099 pp £999 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Norwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk Broads
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4.2 stars(170 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSepOct

Discover timeless seaside towns, experience wonderful wildlife, and explore Sandringham - one of the best-loved stately homes of the British Royal Family - on this holiday to Norfolk. From our elegant boutique hotel, restored from a Victorian townhouse in a quiet conservation area in Norwich, we delve into this scenic region. Sail along the...

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5 days from
£779 pp £729 pp
per person
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Walworth CastleWalworth CastleWalworth CastleWalworth CastleWalworth Castle
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
£749 pp
per person
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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(94 reviews)
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 ...

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5 days from
£699 pp
per person
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Norwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & NorfolkNorwich & Norfolk
Double discount!
4.3 stars(395 reviews)
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...

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Double discount!
5 days from
£549 pp £449 pp
per person
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Pembrokeshire Coast WalesPembrokeshire Coast WalesPembrokeshire Coast WalesPembrokeshire Coast WalesPembrokeshire Coast Wales
4.0 stars(147 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSep

Join us on this delightful getaway to discover the unspoilt rural beauty and hidden treasures of South Wales - with trips aboard nostalgic steam trains into scenic, rugged landscapes, and exploring charming towns. From our base in Swansea, we journey on the Brecon Mountain Railway through the wonderful landscapes of the Brecon Beacons, ...

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6 days from
£649 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
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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Save £50pp
7 days from
£1,399 pp £1,349 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish Stones
4.2 stars(53 reviews)
2026AprJulSep

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...

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8 days from
£1,899 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
Edinburgh & the Highlands by Steam
03 Nov 2025
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 2025
N Morgan
5 stars
“We had a great time !
Collected by Trustpilot
Norwich & Norfolk
24 Oct 2025
T James
5 stars
“Very positive opportunity to find out more about Norwich and parts of Norfolk previously unfamiliar to us.
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
Norwich & the Norfolk Broads
14 Oct 2025
Mr Peter Rawling
5 stars
“A really well planned, paced and organised trip with an excellent leader and good accommodation and catering - the perfect, short break getaway.
Collected by Trustpilot
South Devon, Dartmouth & the English Riviera
03 Oct 2025
Miss Carolyn Jones
5 stars
“Lovely trip and hotel on seafront. Added two days to see Greenways, Agatha Christie’s house and the art deco house owned by D’Oyly Carte Family. Train rides and visit to Dart and Dartmouth very enjoyable.
Collected by Trustpilot
Lewis, Skye & the Highlands of Scotland
25 Sep 2025
Neil Taylor
5 stars
“Interesting, well run holiday trip.
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.

Latest articles from our journey blog