01904 521 936
Tour Search



Inspiring short breaks
Great escapes to exciting places

Short Breaks

If you'd like to escape for just a few days, look no further than our magnificent selection of short breaks in the Great British Isles and Europe. From a short cultural getaway immersing yourself in the history of medieval Bruges, to a long weekend discovering the outstanding beauty of the Great British Isles, our varied collection of short break holidays mean that no matter how little time you have to spare, you always have time for an exciting getaway. We believe that you shouldn't have to compromise on quality just because you're short on time, so we strive to ensure that our short break itineraries are packed with unforgettable excursions, carefully chosen hotels and many delicious meals.

A short break with Great Rail Journeys puts the world within easy reach; we take care of all arrangements in advance, from travel to accommodation to meals and excursions, so that you can relax with the peace of mind that comes with knowing that every aspect of your holiday is taken care of before your departure. All of our tours include the services of a professional Tour Manager, who will be on hand to guarantee that your time away is as enjoyable and relaxing as possible, and will happily assist you with anything from travel advice to restaurant recommendations.

An escorted rail holiday is a perfect way to experience a destination in a short amount of time, as it makes the journey a part of the adventure. From the moment your tour departs you can sit back and relax, taking in the scenic views as they roll past your window, and socialising with fellow, like-minded passengers.

Find out more with a free brochure and enjoy weekly travel inspiration and offers in our e-newsletter.

16 results matching: Short Breaks

Filters
Any
Reset
Any
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
Any
Reset
ClassicClassic
Conway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway CastleConway Castle
Double Discount
4.4 stars(493 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct

On this nostalgic escape, we 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...

View map

Double Discount
6 days from
£849 pp £699 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Highland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland AdventureHighland Adventure
Double Discount
4.2 stars(323 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct

From Inverness, the gateway to our Highland adventure, we discover the very best of northern Scotland. Soak up breathtaking scenery as we travel aboard magnificent mainline and steam railways, including the legendary Jacobite Steam Train and charming Strathspey Steam Railway. Along the way, we marvel at the towering mountains, shimmering lochs,...

View map

Double Discount
5 days from
£1,099 pp £949 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
Double Discount
4.7 stars(653 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct
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 as we ride vintage railways, explore historic towns, and enjoy the relaxed pace of life. Each day is an adventure of picturesque landscapes and captivating history as...

View map

Double Discount
6 days from
£899 pp £749 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
North Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire MoorsNorth Yorkshire Moors
Double Discount
4.1 stars(712 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct

Discover Yorkshire on this picturesque getaway by rail. With timeless towns and cities, Yorkshire is packed with rural landscapes, ancient streets, and diverse architecture, just waiting for you to explore. After checking into your hotel in the elegant town of Harrogate and visiting the coastal town of Whitby, enjoy a journey on the North...

View map

Double Discount
5 days from
£449 pp £349 pp
per person
View Details
River CruiseRiver Cruise
Cologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas Markets
4.5 stars(147 reviews)
2025NovDec

Feel the spirit of Christmas on this cruise along the beautiful Rhine. Discovering Germany at the most magical time of the year we stop at traditional Christmas markets along the way. Strolling through the stalls, admire the craftsmanship of local artisans and savour the flavours that define the season. On board, soak up the natural beauty of the...

View map

5 days from
£1,099 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Lake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake WindemereLake Windemere
Double Discount
4.1 stars(325 reviews)
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

From your base in Wetheral, travel on heritage railways, enjoy the striking countryside of the north and delight in the natural beauty of England's Lake District. Sail across Lake Windermere to inspirational Bowness and the pretty village of Grasmere, once home to William Wordsworth. Enjoy a journey on the Settle to Carlisle Line to Skipton...

View map

Double Discount
5 days from
£649 pp £549 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Norwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk BroadsNorwich & the Norfolk Broads
Double Discount
4.2 stars(151 reviews)
2025JulAugSepOct
2026AprMayJunJulAug...

Discover timeless seaside towns, experience Norfolk's wonderful wildlife, and explore Sandringham - one of the best-loved stately homes of the British Royal Family - on this delightful holiday. From our elegant boutique hotel, restored from a Victorian townhouse in a quiet conservation area in Norwich, we explore the pretty waterways of the...

View map

Double Discount
5 days from
£799 pp £649 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
Double Discount
4.5 stars(41 reviews)
2025Aug

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 charming Dunblane, peacefully situated in the Perthshire countryside, this wonderful Scottish holiday also includes a heritage steam train journey through the...

View map

Double Discount
4 days from
£799 pp £649 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
YorkYorkYorkYorkYork
Double Discount
2025MayJunJulAugSepOct

History, natural beauty and Yorkshire charm come together on this six-day getaway. From the ancient city walls of York to the rolling landscapes of the North Yorkshire Moors, explore the heritage of God's own county. Explore grand gardens, historic abbeys, and seaside towns, while enjoying local delicacies. This expert itinerary is an ideal mix...

View map

Double Discount
6 days from
£899 pp £749 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
Germany Christmas MarketsGermany Christmas MarketsGermany Christmas MarketsGermany Christmas Markets
4.2 stars(40 reviews)
2025NovDec

The Harz Mountains' medieval towns and picturesque landscapes are perfect for soaking up the traditions of Advent in Germany. Join us as we visit three of the region's traditional Christmas markets, UNESCO-listed Old Towns and enjoy a steam train ride through picture-book winter scenery to the summit of the Brocken, Germany's highest summit.

View map

6 days from
£1,499 pp
per person
View Details
ClassicClassic
The Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam RailwayThe Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway
Double Discount
4.1 stars(87 reviews)
2025MayJunSep

Experience the relaxed charm of the English Riviera on a holiday which features nostalgic journeys aboard heritage railways and a traditional boat cruise. Staying in Paignton, a jewel in the crown of the English Riviera, this traditional seaside town creates the perfect base, with beautiful views across the seafront.

View map

Double Discount
5 days from
£649 pp £499 pp
per person
View Details
DiscoveriesDiscoveries
Edinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh TattooEdinburgh Tattoo
Double Discount
4.4 stars(72 reviews)
2025Aug

Attend the sensational Tattoo display, with pipes and drums resonating from the castle's elevated setting. From our base in Peebles, enjoy a heritage journey on the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway, visit Floors Castle for a traditional afternoon tea, and see the Kelpies. Each moment on this Edinburgh Tattoo holiday is designed to leave you with...

View map

Double Discount
4 days from
£849 pp £749 pp
per person
View Details
Our customers love our Short Breaks tours
Keukenhof Tulips, Canals & Amsterdam in Springtime
15/Apr
Griffey
5 stars
“Excellent trip. Weather was good and out tour guide (Deborah) was very professional but also very friendly and informative. A good mix of organised trips and free time. Recommended.
Collected by Trustpilot
Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man
14/Apr
Anne Mills
5 stars
“Fantastic experience, lots of great journeys and viewings. Great time all together!
Collected by Trustpilot
Harz Mountains Christmas Markets
1/Jan
Chris Jenkins
5 stars
“Excellent Christmas Break. Very well organised and managed by the tour manager Andrew.
Collected by Trustpilot
Bavarian Christmas Markets
30 Dec 2024
Mr Protheroe
5 stars
“It was an excellent trip with a fantastic tour manager
Collected by Trustpilot
Explore Yorkshire
12 Nov 2024
Robert Robson
5 stars
“Very enjoyable and interesting 4 night break. Harrogate an excellent base. Hotel couldn't be faulted, food very good and plentiful. Ample free parking, which made for a stress free break. Friendly, helpful staff. Very skilled, knowledgeable and experienced coach driver and courier. Excellent value.
Collected by Trustpilot
Railways & Castles of Wales
28 Oct 2024
Sandra
5 stars
“A most enjoyable experience that lived up to expectations.
Collected by Trustpilot
Yorkshire Dales & Moors
15 Oct 2024
Lesley
5 stars
“Enjoyable and interesting tour, especially the last day in the dales . The hotel was very good , with excellent breakfasts and h er loful staff .
Collected by Trustpilot
Royal Deeside & Glamis Castle
16 Sep 2024
Doreen Guest
5 stars
“The tour was very well organised and ran very smoothly, helped by an extremely good friendly guide who engaged fully with all the group. The visits were very good particularly Glamis Castle and also the Highland cow farm and the gin distillery. The only disappointment was the failure of Tornado...
Collected by Trustpilot
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo & Floors Castle
06 Sep 2024
Gordon Howat
5 stars
“Very good trip
Collected by Trustpilot