
Best Holiday Destinations for 2026
29/12/2025 · By Ian Holt
To inspire your travels for 2026, Great Rail Journeys reveals our Top 10 best holiday destinations and expert tips, from bucket list sights to hidden gems.
Read more



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.










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. ...





Uncover the gems of Dorset and Hampshire by steam train and heritage railway. Based in Bournemouth, cruise past Old Harry Rocks to Swanage and experience the incredible Jurassic Coast - England's only natural UNESCO World Heritage site. Travel on the nostalgic Swanage Railway through idyllic scenery to ancient Corfe Castle and explore this...





Experience the beauty of Scotland and its culture at every turn on a week-long adventure. See the contrasts between city and countryside while exploring Edinburgh and travelling aboard the scenic West Highland Line and famous Jacobite Steam Train into sensational Scottish landscapes. Staying in historic Fort William, wander the rainbow streets of...





Boasting rugged coastlines, rolling hills, dramatic castles and a culture rich in mythology; the Emerald Isle is as beautiful as it is fascinating. Travel around this captivating country, seeing the iconic Blarney Stone and admiring the natural beauty of the Ring of Kerry and dramatic Cliffs of Moher. Enjoy the scenery during trips in a Jaunting...





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 Neptune's...





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 cruise. ...





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, delve into...





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...





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...





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 exploring...





Discover the ancient stones and monuments of Wiltshire on a tour that takes in the breadth of British history. Explore Stonehenge on an exclusive sunset experience inside the stone circle, marvel at the Neolithic wonders of Avebury and uncover the many treasures of Salisbury, spanning the Bronze Age, Iron Age and Roman periods. Based in...





Celebrate Christmas in the charming rural county of Wiltshire, with everything taken care of as you settle into a welcoming traditional hotel in the historic cathedral city of Salisbury. Enjoy a nostalgic journey in decorated carriages aboard the Swindon & Cricklade Railway with a festive afternoon tea, along with atmospheric visits to the...