5 of the Best Rail Holidays in the UK and Ireland

Some of Europe’s most memorable train journeys are just waiting to be discovered closer to home! Escape into the rich history, peaceful towns, and beautiful landscapes all while being treated to exceptional views as you travel – especially when onboard iconic trains, like the Jacobite Steam train! Plus, with rail getaways across the UK and Ireland, the change of scenery you've been looking forward to is easy with rail journeys from any UK station To help you get inspired, we profile some of our most popular UK and Ireland holidays below, any of which can be customised in any number of ways; extra nights, extra destinations – no problem! Get ready to discover closer to home by train!

1. Historic Britain by Rail

Take the ultimate holiday through Britain by rail! Start with four nights in London, with plenty of time to visit a whole host of attractions from Shakespeare’s Globe to Westminster Abbey, the Churchill War Rooms, or the Tower of London. Whilst in London you’ll also enjoy a day trip out to Stonehenge! From London, it’s off to the walled city of York for two nights, followed by two nights reliving Scottish history in Edinburgh. Discover the fascinating Edinburgh Castle, visiting St Margaret’s Chapel, the Crown Jewels, Royal Palace, and the fascinating National War Museum. Fans of historical experiences and gorgeous scenery will enjoy time in Fort William, Chester, and an unforgettable ride on the Jacobite Steam Train – one of the world’s most scenic railway journeys. Pass Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, skirt the shores of deep lochs and winding rivers and catch glimpses of Loch Nevis on the way to Mallaig, a quaint but busy fishing port. From Chester, catch the train to Bristol, nestled on the banks of the River Avon, followed by the adjacent Georgian City of Bath. Learn more...

2. Grand Inverness and the Highlands via the Caledonian Sleeper

Looking to discover Scotland in all of its beauty? Our Grand Inverness and the Highlands holiday is one to consider! Start the journey to the Highlands onboard the incredibly comfortable and brand new carriages of the Caledonian Sleeper travelling overnight to Inverness; the Gateway to the Scottish Highlands. Inverness itself is full of great museums and a great base to explore. On this fantastic holiday, you’ll head into the Highlands with visits to the spectacularly located and romantic Glen Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness. One of the real highlights though is a full day trip over to the fabled Isle of Skye with its remote and unforgettable mountainous landscapes. You’ll start by visiting the dramatic and beautiful Eilean Donan Castle before crossing over to Skye to see the Red Cullin Mountains, the coastal town of Portree, the Trotternish Peninsula, and much more. There’s a reason that this is one of our most popular holidays of 2020! Learn more...

3. Belmond Royal Scotsman Highland Journey

Enjoy faultless service and gourmet dining as you travel aboard the Belmond Royal Scotsman into the majestic scenery of the Scottish Highlands. Enjoy two nights in historic Edinburgh before boarding the opulent carriages of the Belmond Royal Scotsman for an unforgettable tour of the famous Scottish Highlands. Relax in the opulent surroundings of the iconic Royal Scotsman and experience delicious, locally sourced, and regionally influenced cuisine onboard, as well as your own private steward and luxury room accommodations. You’ll feel like royalty! Stops along this journey are as impressive and immersive as being on the train. Explore the 13th-century castle on the Rothiemurchus Estate, discover the verdant scenery and fascinating past of the Culloden Battlefields, and enjoy a one-of-a-kind whiskey tasting session at the famous Strathisla distillery. This journey is simply the best way to experience Scotland in style! Learn more...

4. Dublin, Cork, Killarney, and Galway

Sample the exquisite beauty of the Emerald Isle on your next holiday! From the coastal gem of Dublin at the mouth of the River Liffey to the majestic beauty of the UNESCO-listed Cliffs of Moher and the seaside villages and rocky coastline of the Ring of Kerry, some of Ireland’s most tantalizing gems await. Travel like a local with rail journeys between cities and make the most out of your stay with sightseeing tours to the most beautiful and popular highlights of Dublin, Cork, Killarney with its beautiful national park, located on the shores of Lough Leane, and Galway, the cultural heart of Ireland. Learn more...

5. Edinburgh, Oban, and the West Highland Line

Travel north aboard the Caledonian Sleeper as it makes its way to Fort William. You'll awake to views from your cabin of the Scottish countryside, a magnificent array of shady glens, rugged mountain peaks, and some of the amazing variety of wildlife too, including Deer. Journey past Scottish mountains and Glens on the scenic Jacobite steam train. Explore two great destinations brimming with Scotland’s history and heritage; the beautiful seaside town of Oban and the majestic and historic city of Edinburgh. In Oban be sure to visit the ruins of Dunollie Castle as well as McCaig’s Tower which provides the perfect vantage point for the town and surrounding area.  Scotland both ancient and modern comes to life on this magnificent holiday! Learn more...

For more information on all of Railbookers' rail holidays, call us today or join one of our live webinar presentations!