01904 521 936
Tour Search



Discover the breathtaking landscapes of the British Isles

Experience the charms of the British Isles

ClassicClassic
Highland Adventure
Highland Adventure
5 days from £1,049 pp £949 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
Discover More
ClassicClassic
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
6 days from £949 pp £899 pp
  • Explore the Isle of Man aboard historic trains and enjoy 5 nights in a 4-Star hotel
  • Ascend Snaefell on the British Isles’ only electric mountain railway for great views
  • Enjoy a guided drive on the TT racing circuit with commentary from a racer
Discover More
ClassicClassic
Conway Castle
Railways & Castles of Wales
6 days from £949 pp £849 pp
  • Climb to the summit of Snowdon by train and explore Wales on the Ffestiniog Railway
  • Enjoy 5 nights in a 4-Star hotel in the Victorian seaside resort of Llandudno
  • Step back in time on guided tours of Caernarfon, Conwy and Gwydir castles
Discover More

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.

Best Selling Holidays in the British Isles

ClassicClassic
Edinburgh Castle
Save up to £200pp
2026AprMayJunSepOct
7 days from
£1,599 pp £1,499 pp
View Details
ClassicClassic
Skye, Orkney and the Wild North
Save up to £200pp
4.4 stars(88 reviews)
2026AprMayJunAugSepOct
8 days from
£2,349 pp £2,149 pp
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake Windemere
Save up to £200pp
4.1 stars(380 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£729 pp £679 pp
View Details
ClassicClassic
Stonehenge at Sunset
Save up to £200pp
4.7 stars(21 reviews)
2026MayJunJulAugSep
7 days from
£1,349 pp £1,249 pp
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
North Yorkshire Moors
Save up to £200pp
4.1 stars(776 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£479 pp £429 pp
View Details
ClassicClassic
The Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway
Save up to £200pp
4.3 stars(222 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£799 pp £749 pp
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Corfe Castle
Save up to £200pp
4.0 stars(63 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulSepOct
5 days from
£649 pp £599 pp
View Details
ClassicClassic
Fermain Bay Guernsey
Save up to £200pp
4.6 stars(80 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAugSep
7 days from
£1,899 pp £1,699 pp
View Details

46 results matching: UK & Ireland

Filters
Any
Reset
Any
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
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(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...

View map

Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£949 pp £899 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
Save up to £200pp
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...

View map

Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£1,049 pp £949 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
Save up to £200pp
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...

View map

Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£949 pp £849 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Scottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish HighlandsScottish Highlands
Save up to £200pp
4.3 stars(553 reviews)
2026MarAprMayJunJul...

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...

View map

Save up to £200pp
9 days from
£2,199 pp £1,999 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Tresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey Gardens
Save up to £200pp
4.5 stars(204 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAugSep

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...

View map

Save up to £200pp
9 days from
£2,999 pp £2,799 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake Windemere
Save up to £200pp
4.1 stars(380 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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...

View map

Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£729 pp £679 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
The Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn RailwayThe Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway
Save up to £200pp
4.3 stars(222 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

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...

View map

Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£799 pp £749 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Fermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay Guernsey
Save up to £200pp
4.6 stars(80 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAugSep

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...

View map

Save up to £200pp
7 days from
£1,899 pp £1,699 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Ring of BrodgarRing of BrodgarRing of BrodgarRing of BrodgarRing of Brodgar
Save up to £200pp
4.1 stars(86 reviews)
2026AprMayJunJulAug...
2027AprMayJunJulAugSep

Uncover atmospheric castles, ancient archaeological sites and captivating wildlife in Orkney and Shetland. This magnificent Northern Isles holiday takes us from Edinburgh to the Granite City of Aberdeen and by ferry to Shetland and Orkney, before visiting Inverness. Encounters with Shetland ponies, seals and otters introduce us to the...

View map

Save up to £200pp
8 days from
£3,299 pp £3,099 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Isle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of Man
Save up to £200pp
4.7 stars(594 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,...

View map

Save up to £200pp
6 days from
£749 pp £699 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Save up to £200pp
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...

View map

Save up to £200pp
5 days from
£549 pp £499 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
Save up to £200pp
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...

View map

Save up to £200pp
4 days from
£899 pp £849 pp
per person
View Details
Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
28/Oct
N Morgan
5 stars
“We had a great time !
Collected by Trustpilot
Lakes & Dales by Rail
24/Oct
A Gibbins
5 stars
“Well run. Interesting visits
Collected by Trustpilot
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
23/Oct
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
JanetJones
5 stars
“Brilliant holiday and the tour manager was excellent
Collected by Trustpilot
Highland Adventure
21/Oct
Customer
5 stars
“All went well.
Collected by Trustpilot
Orkney & the Shetland Isles
19/Oct
Peter Levison
5 stars
“This was a very enjoyable holiday in a remote location of the UK. The itinerary is very comprehensive with essentially no free time during the trip and involves a reasonable amount of walking in rural areas in potentially quite extreme local weather, so good mobility is advantageous as is a...
Collected by Trustpilot
Edinburgh, the Highlands & Islands
18/Oct
Ci
5 stars
“Lovely trip Lisa was a great guide Bus driver in Glencoe was amazing
Collected by Trustpilot
Cotswolds & The Severn Valley
14/Oct
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
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & the Highlands
31/Aug
Christine Charie
5 stars
“Good show, well organized and we enjoyed it very much.
Collected by Trustpilot

The Very Best of the British Isles 2026

Take a look at our Very Best of the British Isles collection, showcasing the wonders of each corner of our home nations. Discover unforgettable experiences, including soaking up Scotland's scenery on world-famous trains, savouring views from the summit of Snowdon and wandering between the monoliths of Stonehenge at sunset.

View brochure

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