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Explore the timeless British Isles
Discover breathtaking landscapes and heritage rail

Discover the magic of the British Isles

ClassicClassic
York
Glorious Yorkshire
6 days from £829 pp
  • Explore the historic city of York from York Minster to the ancient city walls
  • Ride the North Yorkshire Moors Railway through God's own country
  • Discover Whitby's Gothic Abbey and enjoy a guided tour of Castle Howard
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Norwich & Norfolk
Norwich & Norfolk
5 days from £549 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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ClassicClassic
Highland Adventure
Highland Adventure
5 days from £1,099 pp
  • Explore the beautiful Scottish Highlands, staying in luxurious 4-Star hotels
  • Board the famous Jacobite Steam Train for a scenic journey to Mallaig
  • Enjoy a trip along the stunning Kyle Line to view Eilean Donan Castle
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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 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

ClassicClassic
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
4.7 stars(799 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£949 pp
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Lake Windemere
2026AugSepOct
5 days from
£649 pp
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Corfe Castle
4.1 stars(77 reviews)
2026JulSepOct
5 days from
£649 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Isle of Man
4.7 stars(645 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£699 pp
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ClassicClassic
Tresco Abbey Gardens
4.5 stars(230 reviews)
2026JulAugSep
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep
9 days from
£2,799 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Callanish Stones
4.3 stars(59 reviews)
2026JulSep
2027AprMayJunSep
8 days from
£2,049 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Highlands by Steam
4.1 stars(327 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£1,479 pp
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ClassicClassic
Ring of Brodgar
4.1 stars(91 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep
8 days from
£3,299 pp
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42 results matching: UK & Ireland

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ClassicClassic
Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
4.5 stars(610 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
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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6 days from
£899 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Isle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of Man
4.7 stars(645 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
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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6 days from
£699 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
4.7 stars(799 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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6 days from
£949 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
4.3 stars(386 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
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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5 days from
£1,099 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak District
4.1 stars(195 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct

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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5 days from
£449 pp
per person
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North Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire Moors
4.2 stars(794 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct

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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5 days from
£449 pp
per person
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Yorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & Northumberland
4.2 stars(235 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
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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ClassicClassic
Norwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk Broads
4.3 stars(183 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027AprMayJunSepOct

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
£749 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
The Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway
4.4 stars(241 reviews)
2026JulAugSepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

From picturesque coastlines to rolling hills, explore the beautiful heart of Wales on classic heritage rail journeys from a base in a picturesque spa town, Llandrindod Wells. Journey on the nostalgic Vale of Rheidol, Talyllyn and Welsh & Llanfair railways and join a ranger on a private tour of the Elan Valley, also known as the 'Welsh Lake...

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5 days from
£699 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Fermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay Guernsey
4.6 stars(85 reviews)
2026AugSep
2027AprJunJulAugSep

Discover incredible coastlines and historic sites, visiting Jersey's endless scenic bays and Neolithic La Hougue Bie, and admiring the magical Little Chapel and the crystal-clear waters of Cobo Bay on Guernsey. Experience nature's wonders on trips to Sark and Herm, with no cars and unspoilt landscapes - enjoy a tranquil horse-drawn carriage ride...

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7 days from
£1,999 pp
per person
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The Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish StonesThe Callanish Stones
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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8 days from
£2,049 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
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
4.4 stars(105 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
2027MayJunJulAugSep

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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8 days from
£2,099 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
Skye, Orkney & the Wild North
3/Jul
Myrna Schmidt
5 stars
“Leader was dedicated to helping the participants have a great trip
Collected by Trustpilot
Norwich & the Norfolk Broads
2/Jul
Dorothy Newton
5 stars
“Debs our tour guide was marvellous and really made our holiday as did our coach driver and the staff at The George who were so helpful. T|he accommodation at The |George was first class and the food was good
Collected by Trustpilot
Railways & Castles of Wales
30/Jun
Mrs Rocío Baines
5 stars
“Very interesting and enjoyable. Nice people in the group.
Collected by Trustpilot
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
29/Jun
Christopher
5 stars
“Excellent in so many respects but in particular, our tour manager David Parmley who ensured that we had a really enjoyable time (despite two very wet days!)
Collected by Trustpilot
Explore Yorkshire
28/Jun
Lynn Cooper
5 stars
“Lovely tour , enjoyed it Excellent tour manager The hotel was a bit disorganised the first night as they appeared short staffed but big improvement the next day
Collected by Trustpilot
The Peak District
22/Jun
Susan Trigwell
5 stars
“Enjoyable trip and good courier
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
Valleys & Railways of Mid Wales
2/Jul
J Spalding
4 stars
“Lovely holiday. The programme was good and John our tour guide was excellent. Sadly, the hotel was very run down and disappointing together with Llandrindod Wells. Would not have given it 4 stars. The restaurant needs a complete refurbishment as the chairs & carpets were rather...
Collected by Trustpilot
Highland Adventure
29/Jun
JW
4 stars
“Very pleasant holiday for the 4 day trip. Hotel comfortable and clean. Staff at hotel helpful and polite. Tour guide always available to give times for.pick ups and made sure we were in the right place at right time.
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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