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Railway Holidays
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.
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
4 days
£645
6 October 2023
4 days
£645
12 October 2023
5 days
15 April 2024
5 days
7 May 2024
4 days
17 May 2024
4 days
24 May 2024
7 days
14 June 2024
What to expect
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
Blog Posts
Why Choose A Rail Holiday With Brightwater Holidays?
If you are hoping to enjoy more rail travel, the team here at Brightwater Holidays are excited to share our full range of escorted rail holidays, which can take you from the UK all the way to India. Due to the increasing popularity of our holidays by train, with itineraries that include our Classic Scottish Steam Break, we have been hard at work creating our biggest-ever collection.
Bucket List Experiences For Your Next Rail Holiday
Not only is portfolio of rail holidays now bigger than ever, it also includes some very special experiences that may already be on your ultimate wish lists! What can Brightwater Holidays treat you to? Well, there are some luxury train travel encounters to look forward to, which range from steam rail tours to rail holidays in India and the full range is available now.
A Luxury Experience On The Maharajas’ Express Train
This unique, luxury train will allow you to explore India in style, on a rail holiday truly unlike any other. Boasting two fine dining restaurants, cabins with panoramic windows and opulent décor throughout that offers a chance to rediscover a bygone era, there’s nothing as memorable as a journey aboard the legendary Maharajas’ Express.
