01904 521 936
Tour Search



Last chance for 2026! Discover breathtaking landscapes and heritage rail

Experience the wonders on your doorstep with our bestselling tours

DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake Windemere
Save £200pp
2026SepOct
5 days from
£749 pp £549 pp
View Details
ClassicClassic
Highland Adventure
Save £200pp
4.3 stars(421 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£1,149 pp £949 pp
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Isle of Man
Save £200pp
4.7 stars(676 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£799 pp £599 pp
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Corfe Castle
Save £200pp
4.2 stars(77 reviews)
2026SepOct
5 days from
£749 pp £549 pp
View Details
ClassicClassic
Conway Castle
Save £200pp
4.5 stars(646 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£899 pp £699 pp
View Details
ClassicClassic
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
Save £200pp
4.7 stars(824 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
6 days from
£999 pp £799 pp
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
North Yorkshire Moors
Save £200pp
4.2 stars(802 reviews)
2026AugSepOct
5 days from
£599 pp £399 pp
View Details
ClassicClassic
The Rheilfford Talyllyn Railway
Save £200pp
4.4 stars(252 reviews)
2026SepOct
2027AprMayJunJulAug...
5 days from
£799 pp £599 pp
View Details

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

Filters
Any
Reset
Any
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Isle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of ManIsle of Man
Save £200pp
4.7 stars(676 reviews)
2026SepOct
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...

View map

Save £200pp
6 days from
£799 pp £599 pp
per person
View Details
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 £200pp
4.7 stars(824 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...

View map

Save £200pp
6 days from
£999 pp £799 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
Save £200pp
4.5 stars(646 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...

View map

Save £200pp
6 days from
£899 pp £699 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
The Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak DistrictThe Peak District
Save £200pp
4.2 stars(200 reviews)
2026SepOct

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...

View map

Save £200pp
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake Windemere
Save £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...

View map

Save £200pp
5 days from
£749 pp £549 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
North Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire Moors
Save £200pp
4.2 stars(802 reviews)
2026AugSepOct

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...

View map

Save £200pp
5 days from
£599 pp £399 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Yorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & NorthumberlandYorkshire & Northumberland
4.3 stars(249 reviews)
2026SepOct
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,...

View map

7 days from
£1,299 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Fermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay GuernseyFermain Bay Guernsey
4.6 stars(93 reviews)
2026Sep
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...

View map

7 days from
£1,999 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
4.3 stars(105 reviews)
2027Aug

Discover the spirit of Scotland on this four-day holiday, offering the perfect blend of culture, history and beautiful landscapes. From the exciting spectacle of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo to a unique journey on the Falkirk Wheel, each day offers something memorable. Explore the magnificent Floors Castle and its gardens after a...

View map

ClassicClassic
Norwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk Broads
Save £200pp
4.3 stars(190 reviews)
2026SepOct
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...

View map

Save £200pp
5 days from
£849 pp £649 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Save £200pp
4.4 stars(152 reviews)
2026SepOct

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...

View map

Save £200pp
5 days from
£649 pp £449 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Tresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey GardensTresco Abbey Gardens
4.5 stars(251 reviews)
2026AugSep
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.     ...

View map

9 days from
£2,699 pp
per person
View Details
Our customers love our UK & Ireland tours
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
9/Aug
Mr David Kennedy
5 stars
“The whole Island was excellent and for a small island surprisingly well blessed with railways of all different kinds. GRJ and their Tour Manager made the holiday vey easy.
Collected by Trustpilot
Explore Yorkshire
7/Aug
Karen
5 stars
“Loved it. Yorkshire is a beautiful place. Made even better by out tour guide Ange.
Collected by Trustpilot
The Isle of Man
7/Aug
Jan Cox
5 stars
“Well organised trip easy booking, the information received before travelling was great. Our guide Deborah Moss kept us informed through out the trip she even helped with ideas on our free day!! Excellent knowledge that she shared with everyone. The Ascot Hotel staff were all very friendly and helpful, the good...
Collected by Trustpilot
Railways & Castles of Wales
6/Aug
Grethe Hansen
5 stars
“Very good holiday and very good tour manager I am very uncomfortable with the way the company encourages clients to tip the tour manager. I expect the company to pay the tour manager an appropriate salary and would be happy to pay an increased prize rather than the encouragement to...
Collected by Trustpilot
The Charms of the Channel Islands
5/Aug
Alan
5 stars
“Beautiful locations, excellent hotels and food, well organised holiday.
Collected by Trustpilot
Norwich & the Norfolk Broads
30/Jul
John
5 stars
“A very good trip with plenty of Train travel, on some very best heritage railways, plus some really good organised visits around the area..
Collected by Trustpilot
The Sensational Isles of Scilly
7/Aug
Eleanor Wales
4 stars
“Beautiful islands, great itinerary, great accommodation , great local guides and great tour manager. It is a pity the rail part of the journey did not live up to expectation however Great Rail Journeys cannot be held responsible for the failings of the rail company.
Collected by Trustpilot
Yorkshire & Northumberland
5/Aug
Richard Harris
4 stars
“We would have given 5 stars but for the evening meals at the first hotel - delay and sometimes absence of what was ordered. Mr Harris being on a low fat diet, it was only the intervention of Heather who, by the way, was excellent, that they provided a...
Collected by Trustpilot
Cotswolds & The Severn Valley
3/Aug
Anne Kinsale
4 stars
“An excellent trip but could be improved by adding an extra day to visit something not train related, like the Cotswold Farm Park, which does take coach parties. The tour manager was helpful and efficient
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