scenic tours united kingdom

UK & Ireland Tours

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8 Days London to London

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23 Days London to London

Operator: Cosmos

18 Days London to London

20 Days London to London

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Take a memorable rail journey through England's rolling hills and past the vast moors and mysterious lochs of the Scottish Highlands.

Become enchanted with the castles and country roads of the UK and Ireland with a small group of no more than 24 fellow travellers.

Travel through the British Isles taking in a patchwork of quaint towns, old pubs, rolling hills, and iconic cities with your newfound friends.

Discover Must do experiences and highlights on a tour of the UK and Ireland

The Ring Of Kerry

Find iron age forts, monasteries and castles, beautiful beaches and lakes, and mountain passes in Ireland’s bounty of natural beauty that is the Ring of Kerry.

Ride the Jacobite Steam Train

There is no finer train lovers’ journey than the Jacobite steam train through the Western Highlands of Scotland from Mallaig to Fort William.

Visit the Lake District

This picturesque region in Northern England inspired artists and writers with its quaint villages and 16 lakes, of which Lake Windermere is most famous.

The Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Feel goosebumps as you watch the marching bands against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. Enjoy the unique sounds of bagpipes and the thundering drums of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo performing on its home ground in August.

High Tea in London

Tea brewed in the finest china pot with matching cups and saucers, served with a tiered platter of finger sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream and cake on a linen tablecloth. An iconic London experience.

Recent Reviews What our clients are saying about their journeys through the British Isles

Explore more explore more your guide to travelling to britain & ireland.

04 March, 2020

Open your heart to Ireland’s warm and welcoming culture, stately castles, verdant landscapes, and friendly locals. It’s time to discover Ireland’s spectrum of beauty and charm. Idyllic countryside, vibrant people, complex history, and hearty cuisine abound in Ireland. Collette has been making...

28 February, 2020

In a world where travel is more accessible than ever before, Trafalgar believe that delving deeper into the heart of a destination and creating true local connections, trump the traditional ‘bucket list’ items. It’s the unique local travel experiences like their Be My Guest that create lasting...

31 May, 2019

If a tour of Ireland is on your list, then why not gather up the whole family and set off on an adventure to the land of leprechauns and wild coasts. The alluring countryside of Ireland is a dream family holiday destination, full of myths and lore, a rich history, scenic wonders, and warm...

Dreaming of travelling through Ireland, but don’t want to go it alone? Solo travel can be challenging, particularly when you’d much prefer to be the passenger taking in the spectacular scenery of the Emerald Isle than be the researcher, planner, navigator, and driver all at once. Welcoming...

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United kingdom.

Regal. Charming. Scenic.

Comprised of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, the United Kingdom definitely has dozens of reasons worth leaving home for. Mountains, valleys, hills and dales, forests and gardens, oh and no less than 25 UNESCO World Heritage sites scattered throughout, are but a few. You will find a slew of cathedrals, castles, palaces and country houses spanning history. Centuries of inspiring the world, influencing the arts, and forming natural beauty have developed this land into one great nation.

Destination Must-See's

A world in a city is a common way to describe the metropolis of London, the capital of England. A cultural melting pot of over 230 nationalities, London is the financial, political and cultural capital of the UK. It is booming with activity and bursting with sightseeing treasures. You’ll find historic highlights from the haunting Tower of London to the ornate Buckingham Palace and more modern attractions such as the world-famous Harrods department store and the towering London Eye.

The capital city and second most populous in Scotland, Edinburgh has been recognized for its historic and cultural attractions. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK after London. Great shopping, historic architecture and great Scottish whisky are just part of its allure. Its greatest draw is Edinburgh Castle. This sprawling medieval castle and fortress sits atop Castle Rock in the city center, dominating Edinburgh’s skyline.

Giant’s Causeway:

At the foot of the basalt cliffs on the coast of Northern Ireland’s County of Antrim lies the stunning Giant’s Causeway. Travelers flock to this UNESCO World Heritage site to experience the 40,000 massive dark columns rising from the sea. The natural phenomena has sparked legends of giants and magic, but its unique geology points to volcanic activity from over 50 million years ago. The Giant’s Causeway is a beautiful sight and the experience of a lifetime.

Cornwall, a region located on a peninsula in southwest England, is comprised of many different towns and villages that feature beautiful beaches and picturesque coastlines. Bordered by the Celtic Sea and the English Channel, one of its most popular towns is St. Ives. This seaside port town just north of Penzance on the coast of the Celtic Sea is known as the art center of West Cornwall and has a sub-tropical feel and beautiful beaches.

Destination Must-Do's

England’s Lake District:

Lose yourself in the natural beauty of this mountainous region in northwest England dotted with tranquil lakes. One of the picturesque villages in the region is Grasmere, once home of and inspiration to the romantic poet William Wordsworth. Perhaps you will take a sail on one of the lakes and take in the peaceful backdrop of lush green mountains, serene shorelines and pristine calm waters dotted with tiny islands.

Stonehenge:

Walk in the footsteps of so many before you when visiting prehistoric Stonehenge. This mysterious rock formation dates back to the Stone Age and remains one of the world’s most famous sites. Standing in the middle of the most dense complex of Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments in England, Stonehenge is perhaps the most important prehistoric monument in England. The experience of seeing this timeless monument is not to be missed – it will surely be a highlight of your visit.

This large, deep freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands extends approximately 23 miles southwest of the city of Inverness. Loch Ness is best known for the alleged sightings of the Loch Ness monster. While Loch Ness is not the largest Scottish loch by surface area, it is the largest by volume, with its deepest point at 755 feet. Along the shore, you will find the ruins of Urquhart Castle. This once mighty site rests on the headwaters of Loch Ness and dates back as far as the 13th century.

Prepare to step back in time in the English countryside. The Cotswolds are roughly 25 miles across and 90 miles long, stretching from Stratford-upon-Avon to Bath. The region is known for its small towns and villages with homes made from golden colored Cotswold stone and grass roofs that sit among lush greenery and rolling hills. Stratford-upon-Avon is perhaps its most famous town. Lying along the River Avon, it’s famed for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare, one of the world’s great playwrights. Be sure to make a trip to see the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

Expert Advice

Think “go to the right.” It is their natural flow of traffic even when it comes to walking. It is important to not only look both ways when crossing the street, but also when on an escalator, stand to the right. When walking down the street, stay alert and follow the flow – to the right.

Expect to be offered tea, a lot. The British love their tea and not only during afternoon tea, any time for any reason. But you should know there is a “proper” way to drink it. The rules are – sit up straight, do not blow on it, take small sips with your pinky down, and put the cup on the saucer between sips. Now you are prepared to sip away.

Bring a raincoat and umbrella, as it rains one out of three days in the UK. It does vary from region to region, but generally speaking, they are important items to have on hand at all times.

Featured Tours to United Kingdom

Scotland: Land of Lore & Legend

Scotland: Land of Lore & Legend featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

The Shades of the English Countryside featuring London, Cornwall & The Cotswolds

Discover Scotland

Discover Scotland featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

British Landscapes featuring England, Scotland and Wales

British Landscapes featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Coasts & Countrysides of England with Edinburgh, Liverpool & London featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Brochures that Feature Our United Kingdom Tours

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United Kingdom Tours

We know you’re keen for an adventure closer-to-home, but want to keep the Explore touch. So we’ve crafted brand new trips, showcasing the very best spots of the UK;  and bringing you unforgettable moments you wouldn’t easily get on your own.

Ways to explore United Kingdom

Walking and trekking, boat journeys, rail journeys, discover our united kingdom tours, popular uk searches, walking in the uk, cycling in the uk, walking in scotland, walking in wales, our most popular trips in the united kingdom, walking scotland’s orkney islands.

Walk Northumberland

Cycle Hadrian's Wall - Coast to Coast

Walk the North West Highlands and Skye

Walk the Lake District

Cycle Devon - Coast to Coast

Highlights of the United Kingdom

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Average groups of 11; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

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Need more inspiration for your United Kingdom trip?

6 reasons to try a small group tour in the UK (even if you're a Brit)

Best solo tours in the UK

7 questions answered about your first walking holiday

7 questions answered for your first cycling holiday

First solo trip with Explore? Top 7 questions answered

5 ways to prepare for your first cycling trip

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Explore the British Isles on a 22-Day Guided Tour of England, Scotland & Ireland

Take a one-of-a-kind trip to the ancient Roman city of Bath, enjoy a private pint-pouring masterclass at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin and experience the majesty of Holyroodhouse Palace in Edinburgh. This 22-day tour of Britain and Ireland is brought to life by Local Experts, with an arsenal of immersive experiences. Visit Orkney Islands for a glimpse of Britain’s furthest northern reaches and the 1000-year-old Kirkwall Town, while Ireland’s medieval city of Kilkenny serves up the chance to experience hurling—a 3,000 year old Celtic sport. Prehistoric Stonehenge towers over England’s Salisbury Plains, where a tour unlocks some of the secrets held by these 5000-year-old monoliths, while the Viking city of York charms all with its maze of narrow streets and close quarter homes.

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20 Day UK and Ireland Tour of England, Wales, Ireland and Scotland

20 days, 5 countries and 35 cities

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19 Breakfasts, 1 Welcome Reception, 7 Dinners

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There’s more to most UK and Ireland trips than the iconic sights. On this journey, you’ll trace the footsteps of giants and feel the salty spray of the Cliffs of Moher, smell the mossy walls of medieval castles and enjoy a toe-tapping, heart-stirring Gaelic song along the way.

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20 days itinerary trip from London to London visiting 5 countries and 35 cities

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England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales

20 Day UK and Ireland Tour of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales

About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Londonderry, Belfast, Dublin and Edinburgh

Discover  Plymouth, Bath, Cardiff, Limerick, Galway, Sligo, Chester, Glasgow and York

Visit the ancient stone circle at Stonehenge, the Roman Baths in Bath, the Waterford Crystal Showroom, Blarney Castle, the Cliffs of Moher, the Giant's Causeway, Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Falkirk Wheel in Falkirk, Isle of Skye, Edinburgh Castle, Alnwick, and Shakespeare's Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon

View the Mayflower Steps in Plymouth, the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, King John's Castle in Limerick, England's Lake District, the 18th hole at St. Andrews, Eilean Donan Castle, Culloden Battlefield, and York Minster in York

See Galway Cathedral

Scenic Drive on a Cornish Excursion, experience the Ring of Kerry

Tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates

See Glencoe

Drive through this Highland village on Loch Leven.

Travel highlights

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The services of a Trafalgar Local Host when you stay at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel

Pick-up and drop-off when you stay at the Trafalgar recommended London hotel, booked through Trafalgar

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Return ferry across the Irish Sea between Wales and Ireland

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

Find out more

Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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2 Week UK and Great Britain Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 2 week UK and Great Britain tour with TourRadar. Choose from 115 trips with 3,098 customer reviews, that range from 11 up to 14 days.

115 UK And Great Britain 14 Days tour packages with 3,098 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Best of Britain (14 Days)

The size of the tour was just right. The coach was in excellent condition.

Best of Ireland & Scotland (Classic, 14 Days)

A wonderful way to see a lot of both Ireland and Scotland. Many great experiences!

Ireland, the United Kingdom and Paris

• Sightseeing

England, Scotland and Ireland ( 14 days )

Highlights of Britain - 14 Days/13 Nights

Taste of Britain & Ireland - 14 Days/13 Nights

Bus driver/guide in Ireland, John, was excellent!

Best of Ireland & Scotland (Small Groups, 14 Days)

The quality of the travel, hotels and experiences were a complete delight to share with the whole group.

Scottish Highlands & Islands

The tour occasionally strenuous; bus rides whole day. Bus quite confortable; Wi-Fi appreciated.

Best of UK & Ireland

Some days too long on the bus.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Amazing Ireland (14 Days)

The 48 people on our tour our absolutely wonderful, but Trafalgar has decided to load this tour to capacity making it rather crowded and uncomfortable.

The rooms in some of the hotels were TINY - not enough enough room to open our luggage.

• Educational

Tudor England

England, Scotland & Wales

Several hotels where not to the level you would expect for a trip costing at this level.

14 Day Entire Coast of Ireland - Small Group Coach Tour

Celtic Highlights

Comfortable, interesting, great guide and driver.

What people love about 2 Week UK And Great Britain Tours

Mostly really good! Tour director was knowledgeable and very good at handling details. Coach driver was excellent. A memorable experience for sure!

Greg and Arther did and excellent job above and beyond great knowledge of all the history and culture made everyone feel so welcome

• One week in England and Scotland (for Seniors) 2024/2025

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Europe & UK Land Journeys 

Discover spectacular scenery, indulge in local cuisine and explore rich and diverse cultures on a luxury journey. 

• Luxury Land Journeys | Escorted Tours
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Be immersed in wondrous cities and a melting pot of cultures , steeped in history. 

Embark on an unforgettable luxury escorted tour – from the enchanting landscapes of the Alps, the rugged beauty of Britain and Ireland, the sensory delights of Spain and Portugal, and the majestic medieval cities of Eastern Europe and the Balkans.

 Explore Europe and the UK  

• Britain & Ireland
• Spain & Portugal
• Eastern Europe & The Balkans 
• Alpine Wonders  

Why choose Scenic? 

It’s more than an escorted land tour - it’s a luxury journey in a class of its own. Enjoy the combined ease of personalised travel, with a selection of experiences that offer you a true insight into the culture, landscape and history of these regions.

Small Group Touring

Enjoy fully escorted smaller group touring with a maximum of 24 guests on your Europe and UK land journey. You’ll have unparalleled access at a comfortable pace as you explore your remarkable destination.

Scenic Special Stays

As you journey across Europe and the UK you can look forward to taking a front row seat to awe-inspiring vistas and memorable experiences, from staying in grand city centre properties to country hideaways. In select locations, Scenic Special Stays feature iconic hotels remarkable for their location, heritage and character. You’ll find that the wonders of these regions are even more special when you’re staying in comfort and surroundings that reflect the uniqueness of the destination.

Scenic Enrich

Our signature, all-inclusive Scenic Enrich experiences offer once-in-a-lifetime moments that will take you to the cultural heart of your destination. From an exclusive piano concert and dinner in Warsaw, to a traditional Macedonian folklore show in Ohrid – these personally curated experiences await you.

Scenic Freechoice

Enjoy the highlights of Europe and the UK with Scenic's all-inclusive Freechoice excursions, where you can choose from diverse sightseeing and activities at a pace that suits you. Take a cable car ride to the peak of Mount Brè in Lugano, enjoy delicious wine tasting in the Lavaux wine region just outside of Lausanne, or see the highlights of Seville via horse-drawn carriage - just some of the incredible options to choose from.

Expert Tour Directors and Guides

When you embark on your luxury land journey, you can do so with the assurance that we’ve taken care of all the small details. Your expert, handpicked Tour Director, driver and local guides are dedicated to delivering an exceptional level of service to the Nth Degree and will be on hand to ensure you love every moment of your trip.

Switzerland by Rail

Travel in first class luxury through fresh alpine air, past some of the most beautiful and dramatic vistas in all of Europe as you embark on a rail journey in Switzerland.  

Enjoy stunning views from first-class seats on the Gotthard Panorama Express from Flüelen to Lugano, travel on the enchanting Bernina Express to St. Moritz, and ride the awe-inspiring Glacier Express to Zermatt. 

Ascend the Swiss Alps on the Gornergrat railway, marvel at the Matterhorn, ride the Golden Pass train to Interlaken, and take in panoramic beauty on the Bernese Oberland Railway.

Where we travel in

Europe & the uk .

Featured Itineraries

Iberian Grandeur

Discover landscapes filled with rustic splendour

Eastern Europe Explorer

Immerse yourself in tales old and new

Majestic Switzerland by Rail

Awe-inspiring scenery at every turn

Best of the Balkans

History’s most fascinating chapters

Grand Alpine

Landscapes that will take your breath away

Majestic Britain & Ireland

The best of Britannia

Your guide to Europe river cruising

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Egypt & The Middle East

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Our Rail Tours of Britian

Here at adeo Travel, we specialize in creating tailor-made, independent rail tours of Britain for our overseas guests. Use one of our outline tours or work with your Britain vacation expert to develop a unique itinerary, either way, you can benefit from Britain’s extensive rail network , the flexible Britrail system and the knowledge and expertise of your adeo Travel advisor to discover England , Scotland and Wales by rail.

Britain is an ideal destination to explore by rail; there are over 10,000 miles of track traversing our small island reaching all corners of the UK. Britain is home to some of the world’s most scenic rail journeys with tracks taking you through sweeping landscapes, over historic viaducts and in to the heart of Britain’s historic cities . British trains are generally modern, punctual, quick and comfortable and the esteemed Britrail system not only offers fully flexible travel and a variety of pass-types to suit your travel needs but also provides excellent value as they are specifically designed for and exclusively available to overseas visitors! If you don’t want to drive on the “wrong” side of the road but are still looking to travel independently then a self-guided rail tour is certainly the best solution for your Britain vacation needs.

Adeo Travel rail tours are always fully inclusive of your flexible daily rail travel via the Britrail Pass system , all over-night hotel accommodation and our comprehensive travel documents pack. Whilst travel is flexible, we’ll enclose useful, easy-to-read outline rail schedules specific to your trip with full details of station names, journey-times and required service changes. Along with this you’ll also receive our personally collated rail travel hints and tips to help you along the way. Our suggested lodgings are always centrally located within each destination which ensures they are convenient both for access to the main railway stations and for local sightseeing on foot or public transport. And you can also add a range of optional extras such as day-tours, hop-on-hop-off bus tickets, sightseeing passes, admissions, and local experiences – simply ask your local Britain expert for advice and recommendations.

Our rail tour itineraries are completely flexible enabling you to customize your trip to suit your needs and budget; choose your level of hotel accommodation from historic town-houses to chic modern city hotels, add destinations or extend your stay in existing locations. There can be some limitations of the adaptability of a rail-tour when considering timetables, journey times and the reach of the network but with your adeo Travel expert on hand to share their experience and advice you will sweep through the planning and development of your itinerary.

An adeo Travel rail tour provides the best of both worlds – you can travel independently throughout Britain without having to drive in a foreign country. Travelling by train you can sit back and soak up the views as you glide between your overnight destinations all the while benefitting from our expert planning and friendly support before, during and after travel.

  Key features

• Customizable itineraries
• Fully flexible rail travel throughout Britain via the official Britrail system
• All overnight accommodation to suit your preferences and budget
• Full cooked regional breakfast each morning
• Easy-to-understand rail schedules specific to your itinerary
• Expert advice from your adeo Travel Britain Expert during the planning of your trip
• A dedicated out-of-hours contact number for use during travel
• Full travel documents pack including suggested sightseeing outline Britain map travel vouchers and our local rail hints and tips.

  Tour benefits

• Excellent value rail travel with rates exclusively available to overseas visitors to Britain
• Britrail rail passes selected to suit your specific tour itinerary
• Relaxing travel – sit back and enjoy the views
• Travel independently but with the support of adeo Travel’s local expertise
• Travel at your own pace and choose how long you spend in each destination
• Travel when you want - you’re not tied to set departure dates
• Decide on your level of accommodation and we’ll propose the specifics
• Hassle-free planning with your own dedicated expert.

Read more about our boutique small group tours of England, Scotland Wales, including our signature Regional and Combination tours of Britain.

Britain Rail Tours

England rail tours, scotland rail tours, wales rail tours, rail tours of britain.

Scottish Highlands Rail Tour – Enjoy some of the world’s most beautiful rail journeys as you tour the scenic Western Highlands and the West Coast of Scotland by train. Experience the famous West Highland Line, cross the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct and travel over the sea to the tranquil Isle of Skye. You’ll experience the best of both worlds with overnight stays in the cultural cities of Glasgow, Inverness and Edinburgh and day trips to the remote landscapes of Glencoe, Skye’s northern peninsula and the shores of Loch Ness.

A Cotswolds Rail Tour – Use England’s rail network to explore the historic towns and quintessential countryside of the heart of England. From the Regency streets of Bath and the medieval colleges of Oxford to the Elizabethan streets of Stratford-upon-Avon, this region is brimming with English history and heritage. You’ll also enjoy day-tours to the rolling hills and chocolate-box cottages of the Cotswolds countryside and over the Wiltshire plains to Stonehenge.

A Northern England Rail Tour – Travel by train to explore the rustic landscapes and historic cities of the North of England. Your scenic rail journeys will take you over the Yorkshire Dales and through the rolling hills of Cheshire whilst overnight stays in Chester and York offer an insight into England’s medieval and Roman history. A true highlight will be a two night stay in Windermere with an included day-tour to explore the dramatic landscapes of the Lake District National Park.

A Great Britain Rail Tour - Make use of Britain's extensive rail network on this comprehensive rail tour through England, Scotland and Wales.  Your journey will take you from the bustling city of London over scenic rail routes to the remote Highlands of Scotland. You’ll experience Britain’s many cultural highlights along the way including the historic cities of Cardiff, Bath, York and Edinburgh. In selected destinations your trip is complemented with small-group day tours to ensure you reach those out-of-the-way highlights such as Stonehenge, the rustic scenery of the Lake District and Loch Ness.

An England Rail Tour – Make use of England’s extensive and far-reaching rail network to explore the corners of this great nation.  From the capital city of London your journey will take you to England’s farthest reaches in on the Cornish Peninsula and the Lake District. Along the way you’ll visit a host of heritage cites including Plymouth, Bath, Oxford, Chester and York. You’ll take in scenic rail rides along the Cornish Coast and over the Yorkshire Dales and enjoy small-group day tours to reach those less accessible spots including Stonehenge, the Cotswolds and the dramatic scenery of the Lake District.

A British Rail Tour – Get two countries for the price of one as you use the British rail network to explore the rails England and Wales. Your itinerary will include scenic rail rides through the scenic Welsh border Marches and over the Yorkshire Dales whilst overnight stops include the historic cities of Chester and York and the cosmopolitan Welsh capital city of Cardiff. In order to best explore the rural landscapes of Wales we’ve included two separate day tours to explore the South Wales countryside and the mountains of Snowdonia in the North Wales.

A Scottish Rail Tour – Traverse the rails of central Scotland and the Eastern Highlands on this train trip to experience the heart of Scotland.  This rail journey takes you from the bright lights of Edinburgh through the historic highland towns of Stirling, Inverness, Aberdeen and the lesser-known gem of Pitlochry. You’ll enjoy Scenic rail journeys through the Cairngorm Mountains and over the Grampian Highlands whilst selected day-tours from Inverness and Aberdeen will enable you to experience the mysteries of Loch Ness and Royal Deeside.

A Rail Tour of England – Experience the highlights of England on this concise but attraction packed tour as you traverse the comprehensive English rail network. Enjoy overnight stays in some of England’s best-known heritage cities including Bath, Oxford and York to see iconic sites such as ancient Roman Baths, medieval university colleges and towering cathedrals.  You’ll also experience England’s quintessential countryside as included small-group tours take you in to the heart of the Cotswolds villages and Lake District National Park.

Rail Tour of Britain – Travel by train on this rail adventure through Britain touching the highlights of England, Scotland and Wales. Visit the elegant historic cities of York, Bath and Chester and enjoy scenic rail journeys through the rolling hills of the English Lake District, the Scottish Lowlands and the Welsh border Marches. Your trip is rounded off with stays in no fewer than three capital cities in London, Edinburgh and Cardiff and includes selected day-tours to reach more rural sites such as the Cotswolds and Stonehenge.

A Wales Rail Tour – Relax and enjoy the views of your scenic rail journeys as you explore the unique culture and landscapes of Wales.  From the cosmopolitan capital of Cardiff this rail journey will take you to the rugged coastlines of Pembrokeshire, through the picturesque Welsh border Marches and into the dramatic landscapes of the Snowdonia National Park. Along the way you’ll see the beautiful coastal towns of Tenby and Llandudno, historic Shrewsbury and the hidden gem in medieval Conwy.

A Rail Tour of Wales – Enjoy an epic rail journey taking you to all corners of this small but magnificent nation. Your rail tour takes you from the Welsh capital of Cardiff through the rugged coastlines of Pembrokeshire to the dramatic mountains of the Snowdonia National Park. Medieval castles and historic harbour towns await as well as some of Wales' renowned historic and heritage railway lines which will take you on some of the most scenic rail journeys that Britain has to offer. All in all a comprehensive tour of Wales travelling by train.

Scotland Rail Tour – Experience some of Britain’s most spectacular and scenic rail journeys as you explore Scotland and the Scottish Highlands by train.  Your epic Scottish rail trip will take you from the vibrant cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow to Scotland’s scenic West Coast, through the dramatic Scottish Highlands and over the sea to the remote Isle of Skye. A hand-picked selection of small-group day tours will allow you to discover the remote landscapes and sites of the Highlands and Skye which cannot be reached by rail alone.

A Britain Rail Tour – Experience the cities and landscapes of two great nations on this rail journey of discovery through England and Scotland.  Travelling from vibrant London in the South to romantic Edinburgh in the North and back again your itinerary will take you through the historic cities of Oxford, Glasgow and York. Along the way you’ll experience scenic rail-rides through the rolling British countryside and enjoy hand-picked day tours to reach the rural sites and villages of the Cotswolds, the Lake District and Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park.

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8 of the Most Scenic Train Rides in the U.K.

Crossing through the picture-perfect British countryside and charming seaside towns, these U.K. train journeys offer beautiful views along the way.

From adventurous cross-country journeys to luxurious rides in the world's most beautiful destinations, there's something truly romantic about train travel. It transports passengers to a simpler time, highlighting the joys of moving slowly and, of course, showcasing beautiful views along the way. There are some world-class railways that cut across the English countryside, traverse the mountains of Scotland, and skirt the most stunning sites in Northern Ireland and Wales. These are the best train rides in the U.K., from luxurious Belmond locomotives to a sleeper train that departs from London and goes all the way to the Scottish Highlands. Check out these eight train journeys if you're seeking a memorable getaway with stunning countryside, seaside towns, and city vistas on display.

British Pullman, A Belmond Train, England

The most indulgent way to explore England's quaint countryside is perhaps on Belmond's British Pullman , which transports passengers back to the roaring '20s in its storied art-deco carriages. There are many trips you can take from London Victoria. Maybe you want to go to the historic Chatsworth House , or the Highclere Castle of Downton Abbey fame? The food is delicious and includes seasonal ingredients and indulgent desserts. For design fans, the Wes Anderson carriage blends art-nouveau style, symmetrical lines, and pastel and jewel tones.

Coleraine to Londonderry, Northern Ireland

If you're pressed for time, the route from Londonderry to Coleraine (or vice versa) operated by NI Railways takes just 40 minutes. A bog-standard commuter line, the train ride — once dubbed "one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world" by actor and train lover Michael Palin — showcases some of Northern Ireland's loveliest spots. On one side, idyllic pastures and the deep blue sea fill nature's canvas, and on the other, the River Bann roars as far as the eye can see alongside emerald mountains. Tunnels are aplenty, as are period homes, churches, and seaside towns. Castlerock is well worth exploring for its pretty village, and if it isn't too windy, picnicking on the beach. As for what to do in Coleraine, the town itself is steeped in history — the Mountsandel Fort is one of the oldest human settlement sites in Northern Ireland — but we recommend hopping on a bus and continuing on to Causeway Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with wonders like the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and Game of Thrones- famous Giant's Causeway.

Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland

Scotland's luxury sleeper train, the Royal Scotsman , has space for only 36 passengers, the vibe on board feels intimate and luxurious. En-suite cabins, tasty food (including lots of Scottish salmon), spa treatments with some of the U.K.'s chicest independent brands, and an observation car with a veranda are just a few standout features. There are several routes you can take, including some that go by landmarks like the Kyle of Lochalsh and beautiful Cairngorms National Park, a favorite of Queen Elizabeth II.

Daydreaming on board once the afternoon tea service hits is mandatory as you snake through the Scottish countryside, potentially taking in spellbinding panoramas of Ben Nevis (the U.K.'s highest mountain) or the Arisaig coastline. Luxurious amenities aside, the itineraries provide opportunities for adventure, too, such as hiking the gorges of Aviemore, canoeing on the famous Loch Ness, and shooting at clay pigeons at the Rothiemurchus estate.

Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland

It's no surprise that this Scottish train, operated by West Coast Railways, has become an Instagram sensation. The route from Fort William to Mallaig , in particular, showcases an otherworldly mix of breathtaking U.K. views including craggy mountains, giant lakes, and the photogenic, 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, famous for appearing in the Harry Potter films. In fact, Potter fans have nicknamed the train the Hogwarts Express.

What you see depends on the time of year. In the summer, expect fields of green and the most luminous of sunsets. In the winter, the rivers are frozen and the giant trees glisten with dagger-like icicles. Tip: book a seat in advance, as they can sell out fast.

Settle-Carlisle Railway, England

RORY FULLER/TRAVEL + LEISURE

Often overlooked by Brits, the Settle-Carlisle Railway in northern England runs 73 miles through glorious countryside, showcasing ruggedly beautiful and remote spots along the way. The highlights come courtesy of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, home to fragrant heather, wildflowers, dry stone walls, and rolling hills. The stations here are just as beautiful (imagine charming pit stops flecked with hanging, posy-stuffed baskets), and the surroundings include green fields dotted with sheep. Another reason to hop aboard? This route, which launched in 1876, is one of England's last great Victorian journeys.

St. Ives Bay Line, England

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

This one might only last 10 minutes, but it's still worth it. Opened in 1877, this stretch of track zooms along the beauteous Cornish coast, a treasure trove of coves, azure seas, white-sand beaches, and beautiful coastal towns once adored by the likes of novelist Virginia Woolf and other celebrities. Tip: sit on the right side of the train for the best views, including a glimpse of the wispy sand dunes that eventually blend into the sparkly waters.

Snowdon Mountain Railway, Wales

Although it's more a tourist attraction and necessity for people who want a little help scaling the beautiful Snowdon mountain, this Victorian narrow-gauge railway is still worth exploring, if just for the breezy views. The ride from Llanberis Station and back takes about two and a half hours, which includes a 30-minute stop at the Hafod Eryri visitor center to take in epic views. Keep your camera ready along the way to capture centuries-old farmhouses, ancient walls, the odd feral goat, and the towering Ceunant Mawr waterfall, which plunges more than 100 feet into a cavernous gorge. As it's pretty old, part of the way is blocked off, so the train currently only runs as far as Clogwyn, where you can hop off and walk the rest of the way to Hafod Eryri. If you're lucky, a clear day will allow you to see all the way to the coast of Ireland.

Caledonian Sleeper, England and Scotland

This old-school sleeper train connects London to Edinburgh via the scenic Lowlander and Highlander routes that weave through Scotland. But this is no ordinary ride. Don't let the idea of sleeping on a train scare you — this locomotive is more like a hotel on rails: There are cabins with snuggly double beds, swish en-suite bathrooms, and for a dose of extra atmosphere, dimmable lights. A rather fancy dining cart ensures all bellies are fed for the 500-mile, eight-hour journey. This will give you an opportunity to try Scottish delicacies such as haggis and tatties (potatoes) served with a whiskey cream sauce. It's also worth waking up early to catch dawn breaking over the Northumbria countryside.

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