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Explore the timeless British Isles
Save up to £200pp and discover breathtaking landscapes and heritage rail

Experience the wonders on your doorstep with our bestselling tours

ClassicClassic
Tresco Abbey Gardens
Save up to £200pp
4.6 stars(266 reviews)
2026Sep
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep
9 days from
£2,899 pp £2,699 pp
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ClassicClassic
Conway Castle
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4.5 stars(660 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£999 pp £899 pp
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ClassicClassic
Highland Adventure
Save up to £200pp
4.3 stars(426 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£1,199 pp £1,099 pp
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ClassicClassic
Ring of Brodgar
Save up to £200pp
4.3 stars(113 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep
8 days from
£3,499 pp £3,299 pp
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Isle of Man
Save up to £200pp
4.7 stars(694 reviews)
2026Oct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£799 pp £699 pp
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ClassicClassic
Scottish Highlands
Save up to £200pp
4.4 stars(1288 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027MarAprMayJunJul...
9 days from
£2,599 pp £2,399 pp
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ClassicClassic
Norwich & the Norfolk Broads
Save up to £200pp
4.3 stars(194 reviews)
2026Oct
2027AprMayJunSepOct
5 days from
£899 pp £799 pp
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ClassicClassic
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
Save up to £200pp
4.7 stars(838 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£1,099 pp £999 pp
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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.

42 results matching: UK & Ireland

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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Isle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of Man
Save up to £200pp
4.7 stars(694 reviews)
2026Oct
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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Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£799 pp £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
Save up to £200pp
4.7 stars(838 reviews)
2026SepOct
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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Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£1,099 pp £999 pp
per person
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DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake Windemere
Save up to £200pp
2026SepOct

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 £200pp
5 days from
£749 pp £649 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
Save up to £200pp
4.5 stars(660 reviews)
2026SepOct
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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Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£999 pp £899 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Yorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & Northumberland
Save up to £200pp
4.3 stars(254 reviews)
2026Oct
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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Save up to £200pp
7 days from
£1,399 pp £1,299 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Fermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay Guernsey
Save up to £200pp
4.6 stars(95 reviews)
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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Save up to £200pp
7 days from
£2,099 pp £1,999 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 £200pp
4.4 stars(116 reviews)
2026Sep
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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Save up to £200pp
8 days from
£2,699 pp £2,599 pp
per person
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Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
Save up to £200pp
4.4 stars(1288 reviews)
2026SepOct
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...

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Save up to £200pp
9 days from
£2,599 pp £2,399 pp
per person
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Tresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey Gardens
Save up to £200pp
4.6 stars(266 reviews)
2026Sep
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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Save up to £200pp
9 days from
£2,899 pp £2,699 pp
per person
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The Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway
Save up to £200pp
4.4 stars(254 reviews)
2026Oct
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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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£899 pp £799 pp
per person
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Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
Save up to £200pp
4.3 stars(426 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...

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 £200pp
5 days from
£1,199 pp £1,099 pp
per person
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ClassicClassic
Norwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk Broads
Save up to £200pp
4.3 stars(194 reviews)
2026Oct
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.    Staying in an elegant and historic hotel, reputed to be the oldest in the UK, we delve into this scenic region from the charming city of Norwich. Sail along the...

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Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£899 pp £799 pp
per person
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Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
The Isle of Man
2/Sep
Alison Metcalfe
5 stars
“This holiday was our Honeymoon. It would have been nice to have had some recognition from either the Hotel (a free drink) or from Great Rail (a card) as I've seen it happen before when people have a birthday while away. There was a last minute change with regard to...
Collected by Trustpilot
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
2/Sep
Zina Roworth
5 stars
“It was the trip of my bucket wish list and it didn't disappoint. The organisational side was perfect and the Tour Manager did a more than excellent job in arranging everything perfectly to everyone's accord. The accommodation on St Mary's was excellent, the off island trips ran to schedule. If...
Collected by Trustpilot
Highland Adventure
1/Sep
helen
5 stars
“Excellent trip. Hotel good food good tours fantastic . Well worth it
Collected by Trustpilot
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
1/Sep
Mary Stahl
5 stars
“This was an outstanding tour, excellent guide and drivers, every detail thought out in advance! Wonderful accommodations and amazing cuisine!
Collected by Trustpilot
Yorkshire & Northumberland
31/Aug
Owen Cole
5 stars
“Very full days of interest, castles, railways and beautiful scenery all carefully managed by the tour leader
Collected by Trustpilot
Railways & Castles of Wales
30/Aug
Carol Kinch
5 stars
“Tour guide was lovely coach driver super had a great time everything was great enjoyed every day lots to do castles and railways were fantastic I would highly recommend it
Collected by Trustpilot
Valleys & Railways of Mid Wales
22/Aug
Delia Beake
5 stars
“Good itinerary. Excellent tour manager. Food at hotel good. Bed was very old - you could feel the springs! Had to ask for a duvet to be put on top of the topper! Not a good sleeping experience!
Collected by Trustpilot
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
2/Sep
Customer
4 stars
“We have a grand break in the Isle of Man thanks to the attention and skills of our Great Rail Journeys tour manager Denise, who was always available with a welcoming smile to answer any questions and organise the group.
Collected by Trustpilot
Skye, Orkney & the Wild North
1/Sep
Sheila Bhattacharjee
4 stars
“The holiday was quite full - on. A free day or two half days would have have been ideal . Lots of travelling ( coach train & sea - ferry )enabled us to see so much beautiful scenery( lochs& mountains) Hotels good. Most of our group were like ourselves, in their...
Collected by Trustpilot

Seek inspiration for an unforgettable UK holiday in 2027

View our new brochure to discover our expertly curated British Isles holidays for 2027. Create lifelong memories on award-winning holidays while exploring the picture-perfect Scottish Highlands, mountainous Wales, the rugged moors of Yorkshire or on the charming Isle of Man with nostalgic heritage rail journeys and unforgettable traditions.

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