Glenfinnan Railway Viaduct
Glenfinnan Railway Viaduct

Escorted rail tours from Brightwater Holidays

If you’re looking for a rail holiday, we have a fabulous collection available to choose from. Journey by steam or standard train through stunning scenery in destinations as diverse as Scotland and Switzerland, or Italy and India. Due to the continued popularity of our existing railway holidays, we have expanded our portfolio and are delighted to present our full range, which can take you on the opulent Maharajas’ Express, Belmond Royal Scotsman, Glacier Express and more. So, take a look at our biggest-ever selection of escorted rail tours and slow down a little on your next holiday.

Railway Track Evening

While rail is a central theme to each of the holidays, it features in different ways so you can take your pick depending on what it is you’re looking for. For example, some of these trips are no-fly, meaning you will travel to and from your destination by rail, Eurostar train more precisely, ideal for those who don’t want a lengthy airport experience. Other itineraries will include memorable rail experiences, such as a chance to ride the Jacobite steam train over the legendary Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland or an opportunity to board the iconic Maharajas’ Express in India, and then there are holidays where the journey is the most anticipated element, such as our Glacier Express tour.

Upcoming Departures

Activity Level
Duration
7 days
Price from
£1,670 £1,595
Next date
16 June 2023
Duration
5 days
Price from
£845 £795
Next date
19 June 2023
Activity Level
Tour Manager Michael Gill
Duration
3 days
Price from
£645
Next date
26 August 2023
Duration
7 days
Price from
£1,945 £1,870
Next date
1 September 2023
Activity Level
Duration
5 days
Price from
£1,120 £1,045
Next date
5 September 2023
Activity Level
Duration
4 days
Price from
£725 £675
Next date
15 September 2023
Duration
9 days
Price from
£2,795 £2,695
Next date
3 October 2023

What to expect

Jacobite Steam Train

Jacobite Steam Train

This iconic steam train travels along an 84-mile round trip route, from Fort William to Mallaig, on what is often described as one of the world’s greatest rail journeys. The Jacobite is operated by West Coast Railways and is recognisable as The Hogwarts Express from the Harry Potter franchise. This particular steam train is much photographed, especially while gliding over the 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct on the West Highland Railway, and a ride on it is sure to evoke the golden age of travel.

Glacier Express

The Glacier Express

Known as the world’s slowest express due to its average speed of just 24 miles per hour, this train with its large panoramic windows connects the mountain resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz via Andermatt in the central Swiss Alps, offering unrivalled views of the surrounding scenery. On a journey aboard the Glacier Express, anticipate incredible landscapes that range from mountains and lakes to forests and valleys – not forgetting a crossing of the much-photographed Landwasser Viaduct with its six arches.

Royal Scotsman

Belmond Royal Scotsman

One of Scotland’s premier tourist attractions, a ride aboard this train is nothing short of a luxurious experience. Once on board, you will enjoy the elegant surroundings of mahogany-clad cars, fine dining where exceptional Scottish produce is the star of the show and beautiful personal cabins to rest your eyes in after all that sightseeing.

Maharajas’ Express

The Maharajas’ Express

Hop aboard the world’s leading luxury tour train in India for an exclusive experience truly unlike any other. At 23 carriages in length, this iconic train boasts tastefully decorated interiors along with two restaurants and two bar/lounges. This train is an absolute must for anyone dreaming of the ultimate rail holiday in India, which may include the Golden Triangle or the vast wildlife reserve at Ranthambore National Park.

The Bernina Express

The Bernina Express

Similar in style to the Glacier Express, the Bernina Express also boasts large panoramic windows but instead runs between Switzerland and the north of Italy. Interestingly, the entire narrow-gauge route it travels along is UNESCO-listed and highlights include the beautiful Lago di Poschiavo and the nine-arched Brusio Spiral Viaduct.

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