Welcome to Railtrail Tours
A family firm with an ethos of honesty and integrity. Our passion for delivering quality escorted holidays by rail at great value fares along with consistently excellent customer service has stood us in good stead for over 40 years.
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01538 382323
Monday - Friday, 9am to 5pm
Railtrail Tours - A selection of our best selling Classic rail holidays in the UK & Ireland. Explore some of the very best attractions and see the most extraordinary landscapes and scenery.
Our Harrogate winter break visits Castle Howard to see the wonderful festive decorations and iconic 25-foot Christmas tree in the Great Hall adorned with over 3,000 baubles. We explore York's famous St Nicholas Fayre with over one-hundred traditional stalls scattered throughout the atmospheric streets. We enjoy festive afternoon tea as we steam through the Dales on the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Railway and visit the RHS Harlow Carr Gardens as dusk falls to view the beautifully illuminated trees.
Duration: 4 Days
Our great value pre-Christmas Scottish tour stays at the Alexandra Hotel in Fort William and is packed with fantastic attractions and stunning scenery. This winter warmer in the western Highlands includes excellent excursions, great rail journeys on the West Highland and Kyle Lines, Half board at the hotel, a bubbly drinks reception on arrival along with Scottish themed singing and dancing entertainment.
Duration: 5 Days
Experience the magic of Christmas on our new festive tour to Manchester and Liverpool. Explore these vibrant cities with free time to visit their famous Christmas markets, stroll through the stalls and complete your last-minute Christmas shopping with the variety of unique gifts and decorations on offer. Dine with distinction aboard East Lancashire Railway enjoying a delightful, festive lunch plus experience an enchanting and dazzling light trail.
Duration: 5 Days
The West Highland Line, the Kyle Line & the Cairngorms Line - experience a truly magical pre-Christmas circular rail tour of the Scottish Highlands in all their wintry glory, followed by a relaxing and homely Christmas in Stirling with all the trimmings and an excursion to the Royal Yacht Britannia and Edinburgh.
Duration: 8 Days
Enjoy a relaxing Christmas in beautiful Harrogate. This Christmas you can unwind and let someone else do the cooking. Our tour includes a traditional Christmas Day lunch with all the trimmings, a light Boxing Day lunch, and entertainment on 3 nights plus a visit to historic York on Christmas Eve and a Boxing Day steam journey on the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway.
Duration: 5 Days
A relaxing New Year short break in the beautiful Victorian spa town of Harrogate. Our tour includes an afternoon tea, New Year's Eve gala dinner with entertainment and a steam journey on the Embsay and Bolton Railway as well as a trip to the historic city of York.
Duration: 4 Days
Experience a magical Scottish rail adventure on this fantastic short break in Fort William combining the glorious West Highland Line with the magnificent Jacobite Steam Train. Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Highlands on the Nevis Range Gondola, cruise across Loch Linnhe, and indulge in a tour and tasting at the Ben Nevis Distillery.
Duration: 4 Days
Enjoy a beautiful rail holiday along one of Britain's most iconic routes to the English Riviera with the opportunity to explore the beauty and charm of Devon's magnificent coastline by boat as well as travelling on two of Devon's finest steam railways. Stay in a picturesque seafront location with sea view rooms included plus enjoy free time in Torquay and Dartmouth to discover these vibrant and historic towns.
Duration: 5 Days
Build up a head of steam and uncover Scotland's heritage from a different angle. Steam through the Highlands on the nostalgic Strathspey Railway, experience the scenic Bo'ness & Kinneil Steam Railway, sail through the sky on the remarkable Falkirk Wheel, and enjoy a cruise on Loch Katrine. Visit the magnificent equine sculptures of The Kelpies and the fantastic Stirling Castle plus indulge in a whisky distillery tour and a brewery tasting.
Duration: 6 Days
Experience a relaxing circular tour of the spectacular Scottish Highlands. Discover some of the most stunning scenery and landscapes from the comfort of your seat, steam on the magnificent Jacobite Steam Train across the fantastic Glenfinnan Viaduct, journey on Scotland's "Great Railway Journey of the World" plus enjoy free time to explore the picturesque city of Inverness.
Duration: 5 Days
Discover the diversity of Scotland on this fantastic tour in Aberdeen and Dundee. From royal life at stunning castles to iconic waterfronts, from wildlife cruises to heritage transport, this nostalgic tour has something for everyone. Explore the rich history and beauty of two wonderful coastal Scottish cities perfectly combined with a couple of wee drams!
Duration: 8 Days
Experience the fantastic Isle of Man at its very best! Discover the heritage of this independent isle and enjoy fantastic steam journeys, unique electric trams, mountain railways, horse drawn trams, and spectacular views at the summit of Snaefell. Visit the medieval Castle Rushen and the fascinating Old House of Keys plus free time to explore the harbourside town of Ramsey all from a wonderful seafront hotel.
Duration: 5 Days
Experience a joyful Cornish holiday visiting some of the most enchanting gardens in Cornwall from great grandeur to hidden sanctuaries. Discover the Lost Gardens of Heligan, relax in the tranquillity of Pinetum Gardens, learn the history and secrets of Pencarrow House, and visit the world-renowned Eden Project plus enjoy a nostalgic steam journey.
Duration: 5 Days
Experience the unique character and charm of the Isles of Scilly from the beautiful Star Castle Hotel. Journey along the English Riviera, admire the iconic Cornish coastline, enjoy commanding views of the archipelago, and immerse yourself in island life. Indulge in vineyard tour and tasting, visit the beautiful islands of Tresco and St Agnes, and sample some of the best seafood caught on the hotel's very own fishing boat.
Duration: 7 Days
Delve into the history of Wessex, once the capital of England, and go beyond the surface at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard stepping aboard iconic warships including HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, and Mary Rose. Explore the stunning Cathedrals of Winchester and Chichester, uncover the legendary Arthurian Round Table at Winchester Castle, stroll through the charming Queen Eleanor's Garden, visit the home of renowned author, Jane Austen, plus take a ride on the nearby heritage railway 'Watercress Line'.
Duration: 6 Days
The mighty River Tyne is bordered by the unspoilt beauty, history, and heritage of Northumberland & Durham. This attraction packed short break time-travels from the Romans of Hadrian's Wall and Vindolanda, through historic Anglo-Saxon Bamburgh, to the Victorian 'living history' of Beamish plus a boat trip to view the stunning wildlife of the Farne Islands and two excursions on the South Tynedale Railway and Heatherslaw Light Railway.
Duration: 6 Days
Explore Bristol's fascinating past and join us as we discover iconic modes of transport from Brunel's SS Great Britain, the ship that changed maritime voyaging, to the world's fastest passenger jet, supersonic Concorde. Enjoy a harbour boat trip and a nostalgic train journey on the Avon Valley Railway plus a visit to the pre-historic Cheddar Gorge caves tasting the world-famous Cheddar Cheese, a tour and tasting at Thatcher's Cider Farm, and discover the history of the Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Duration: 5 Days
Experience a delightful Cornish rail holiday as we meander along scenic branch lines, capturing the cream of the coastal and countryside views, visiting charming ports, seaside resorts, an award-winning vineyard, and the world-renowned Eden Project plus time to explore Padstow, Looe, Penzance & St. Ives.
Duration: 5 Days
Celebrate the steam and rail heritage of the north country with our very own 'Battle of the Roses' tour based at an iconic railway hotel. Journey on the fabulous Settle & Carlisle Line, experience steam nostalgia with fantastic Yorkshire and Lancashire steam and heritage railways every day, visit the fascinating Bury Transport Museum, and indulge in a distillery tour and tasting. You are sure to come up smelling of roses!
Duration: 8 Days
Steam through Snowdonia on this fantastic tour in wonderful Wales. Experience nostalgic steam journeys including the spectacular Snowdon Mountain Railway, journey on the beautiful Conwy Valley Line, enjoy a magnificent tram ride, and visit the beautiful Bodnant Garden. Discover the heritage, history, and beauty of Wales.
Duration: 6 Days
Explore the industrial age of waterways and railways on this fantastic tour based in historic Chester featuring one of the 'Seven Wonders of the Canals'. Discover the world of canals at Ellesmere Port, cruise across the fantastic Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, visit the beautiful Arley Hall & Gardens, and enjoy a nostalgic journey on the Llangollen Railway.
Duration: 5 Days
Discover the beauty and charm of the Channel Islands on our unique Jersey, Guernsey, Herm, and Sark tour. Take a nostalgic journey from Jersey's dramatic coastal scenery and traditional towns to Guernsey's wonderful beaches, not forgetting Herm and Sark, idyllic car-free havens. Explore, relax, and unwind amidst the stunning landscapes and captivating heritage of the Channel Islands.
Duration: 9 Days
Explore the magical region between the Welsh borderland and the River Severn in the beautiful Forest of Dean including three heritage railways, a cruise along one of the country's most scenic river landscapes, and visits to fascinating museums. Enjoy time to explore some of the many charming towns and villages including Broadway (Jewel of the Cotswolds), picturesque Ross-on-Wye, and the historic market town of Abergavenny.
Duration: 5 Days
Experience a remarkable steam tour to Newcastle to explore the home of five steam railways. Enjoy a scenic steam journey on the oldest existing railway at Tanfield, ride the narrow-gauge line at South Tynedale, and discover the birthplace of railways at the Locomotion Museum. Visit the incredible Living Museum at Beamish plus the iconic Angel of the North on this nostalgic tour.
Duration: 6 Days
Experience the peace, tranquillity, and natural beauty of the picturesque islands of Orkney and Shetland. Discover spectacular scenery, amazing wildlife, and fascinating settlements in Orkney, explore the rich history and archaeology of the Shetland Isle, and touch the top of the country at John O'Groats plus enjoy time to explore the beautiful cities of Aberdeen and Inverness.
Duration: 8 Days
Experience a wonderful tour combining Scotland's Far North with the beauty of the Shetland and Orkney Isles. Discover spectacular scenery, amazing wildlife, and fascinating settlements in Orkney, explore the rich history and archaeology of the Shetland Isle, and touch the top of the country at John O'Groats.
Duration: 6 Days
Experience the ultimate island-hopping adventure in the Outer Hebrides visiting an impressive eight islands. Discover unspoilt, white sandy beaches, spectacular scenery, amazing wildlife, and impressive mountain ranges. Learn the unique and fascinating history of the Hebrides, journey on the West Highland Line, and enjoy free time to explore Inverness.
Duration: 8 Days
Experience nostalgic railway journeys through spectacular scenery and along stunning coastlines in the Lake District enjoying vintage train rides including the world-famous Settle & Carlisle line across the fabulous Ribblehead Viaduct. Visit fascinating railway museums, relax on leisurely cruises across beautiful lakes, indulge in afternoon tea at the stately Leighton Hall, enjoy a distillery tour and tasting plus free time to explore the beautiful market town of Kendal.
Duration: 8 Days
Journey through history and explore aviation legacy on this fascinating tour to Bedford. Visit extraordinary wartime headquarters, uncover the secrets of Bletchley Park, discover the tactics and techniques of military intelligence, and explore the largest collection of historic aircraft in Europe on this captivating journey back in time.
Duration: 5 Days
Experience a truly magical circular tour of the Scottish Highlands discovering some of the most stunning scenery and landscapes. Enjoy spectacular rail journeys including the magnificent Jacobite Steam Train and the nostalgic Strathspey Steam Railway plus Scotland's "Great Railway Journey of the World". Cruise to the Isles of Mull and Iona, indulge in a whisky distillery tasting, and enjoy free time to explore the beautiful cities of Edinburgh and Inverness.
Duration: 9 Days
Discover the heritage and railways of the fantastic Isle of Man at its very best! Enjoy a fantastic steam journey, unique electric trams, mountain railways, horse-drawn trams, and spectacular views at the summit of Snaefell. Visit the medieval Castle Rushen, the historic Cregneash Village, and the mythological Manannan Museum plus free time to explore the harbourside town of Ramsey.
Duration: 8 Days
Discover Wales on this great value tour based in the fantastic city of Cardiff. Enjoy nostalgic steam journeys on the Brecon Mountain Railway and Forest of Dean Railway, experience fascinating guided tours at the Royal Mint Experience and Rhondda Heritage Park, and visit St Fagans Museum. Indulge in a whisky tasting at an award-winning Welsh distillery plus enjoy free time to explore Cardiff and Chepstow.
Duration: 6 Days
Journey to the Heart of Wales on this scenic rail holiday enjoying nostalgic steam journeys with picturesque valley and mountain views on the Vale of Rheidol Railway, the Brecon Mountain Railway, and the Talyllyn, the world's first preserved railway. Journey on the beautiful Heart of Wales Line, visit the magnificent Aberglasney Gardens, discover Cyfarthfa Castle, and enjoy time to explore the historic town of Abergavenny.
Duration: 5 Days
Enjoy a delightful tour of the spectacular Scottish Highlands based in the picturesque city of Inverness. Discover some of the most stunning scenery and landscapes from the comfort of your seat, steam on the magnificent Jacobite Steam Train across the fantastic Glenfinnan Viaduct, experience Scotland's "Great Railway Journey of the World", and journey on the nostalgic Strathspey Railway.
Duration: 5 Days
Discover the history, tales, ghouls, and ghosts of the Ribble Valley on this fascinating tour. Explore the historic and haunted stately home of Samlesbury Hall, learn the thousand-year history of Hoghton Tower, wander through tranquil gardens, and indulge in a delightful gin tasting. Journey to the heart of the Ribble Valley and enjoy free time in the vibrant city of Lancaster.
Duration: 5 Days
Experience a fantastic steam tour to the West Country to explore remarkable rail heritage from the beautiful city of Exeter. Steam nostalgia over narrow-gauge lines, through stunning countryside, along magnificent coastlines, and past wild moorlands with heritage railway adventures every day. Cruise on the River Dart, ride the historic funicular at Lynton, and enjoy free time in Bodmin and Dartmouth to discover these vibrant and historic towns.
Duration: 6 Days Discover the beauty and charm of the Channel Islands on our unique Jersey, Guernsey, Herm, and Sark tour. Take a nostalgic journey from Jersey's dramatic coastal scenery and traditional towns to Guernsey's wonderful beaches, not forgetting Herm and Sark, idyllic car-free havens. Explore, relax, and unwind amidst the stunning landscapes and captivating heritage of the Channel Islands.
Duration: 9 Days
Experience the glorious sights, smells, and sounds of the steam age on this nostalgic tour to Norfolk. Visit five fantastic steam railways, enjoy picturesque steam journeys including the famed Poppy Line, experience a steam festival, and discover the magnificent Bressingham Steam & Gardens.
Duration: 5 Days
Based in the picture-postcard town of Pitlochry, this magical tour combines outstanding Scottish scenery with wonderful attractions. Experience the spectacular Enchanted Forest, steam nostalgia on the Strathspey Railway, and indulge in a wee dram at one of Scotland's oldest distilleries. Visit a famous royal retreat, an iconic expedition ship, and Britain's first military airfield plus enjoy free time to explore the city of Dundee.
Duration: 5 Days
Enjoy a delightful pre-Christmas tour of the spectacular Scottish Highlands packed with fantastic attractions and amazing rail journeys. Discover picturesque scenery from the comfort of your seat, experience Scotland's "Great Railway Journey of the World", and journey on the West Highland Line across the magnificent Glenfinnan Viaduct. Visit the Eilean Donan Castle, tour the Ben Nevis Distillery, and indulge in true Scottish hospitality and entertainment.
Duration: 5 Days
Step into Christmas with our new festive tour exploring the history of Berkshire. Visit Oxford Castle and climb St Geroge's Tower, tour Windsor Castle in its spectacular winter glory, and soak in the festive atmosphere at Waddesdon Manor Christmas Markets. Cruise the River Thames, indulge in a festive afternoon tea, and enjoy free time in Oxford and Windsor to create Christmas memories.
Duration: 5 Days
Enjoy a fantastically festive tour to Durham to experience the magic of Christmas from a bygone time. Soak in the festive atmosphere at the incredible Living Museum at Beamish, visit Auckland Castle in all its Christmas glory, and discover a monumental Neapolitan Nativity. Explore the world's first railway town and its unique museum collection plus enjoy free time in the historical city of Durham to create Christmas memories.
Duration: 4 Days
Relax on a delightfully festive tour in the historic town of Stratford staying in a beautiful countryside hotel. Explore the birthplace of Shakespeare, visit Warwick Castle in all its festive glory, and indulge in a wonderful, traditional Christmas Day lunch. Enjoy mince pies, Christmas cake, and festive cheers galore.
Duration: 5 Days
Experience the festive season in style on this relaxing tour in the historic city of Winchester staying in the elegant Winchester Royal Hotel. Explore this medieval city, visit the magnificent Cathedral in all its festive glory, discover the iconic Spinnaker Tower, and indulge in a wonderful, traditional Christmas Day lunch.
Duration: 5 Days
Enjoy a relaxing Twixmas break to picturesque Scotland and unwind post-Christmas. Journey through the scenic forests of Dumfries and Galloway, visit the historic Globe Inn, and indulge in a whisky tasting at an award-winning distillery. Explore the seaside town of Ayr, experience true Scottish hospitality and entertainment, and make the most of the festive season.
Duration: 4 Days
Celebrate the New Year in style on this relaxing tour to picturesque Wales staying in the stylish Celtic Royal Hotel. Relax in the superb spa facilities, explore the beautiful town of Caernarfon, visit the iconic Castle, and indulge in a whisky tasting at an award-winning distillery. Enjoy a luxurious New Year's Eve Gala Dinner and let the countdown begin!
Duration: 4 DaysAward Winning rail holidays in the UK, Europe & Worldwide, departing in 2025
A collection of Festive and Winter Tours in 2024 and 2025
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