Top 5 Expert-Led Tours for 2026
With Tripsmiths, of course. Our experts have researched the most exciting locations so that we can bring you tailor-made, expert-led holidays anywhere around the world.
No matter your hobbies or interests, we will have a tour for you - from gastronomy trips with famous chefs and horticulture breaks with gardening experts, to musical tours with live performances and cultural trips with esteemed historians.
When you're booking one of our expert-led tours, not only are you benefiting from the fascinating sights and memorable experiences that come as part of the itinerary, you also get to enjoy the company of your chosen expert. Benefit from their knowledge and expertise, with commentary and insights as you travel.
On most of our tours, the expert will give a talk and exclusive Q&A session for guests to find out more about their lives and careers. You can read some our exclusive chats on our blog - or hear from our customers on why you should book an expert-led tour.
Our best-selling tour of the Scottish Highlands with Carol Kirkwood returns for 2026, and now's your chance to ride the iconic Jacobite steam train. This four-day itinerary sees you travel over land, sea and loch, with multiple journeys powered by steam - with the highlight being a trip on the Fort William/Mallaig line on the Jacobite steam train with Carol Kirkwood. The route is frequently voted the world's greatest, passing rugged scenery of craggy coastlines and inland lochs.
Join an all-inclusive cruise in the company of top chef and TV presenter James Martin. Cruise Norway's coastline, from Tromsø to Oslo and cross the Arctic Circle, where you'll stand a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights. James will give a talk and Q&A about his career, and will host a cooking demonstration on board. Known for its dramatic fjords, remote islands and charming towns, this is a tour not to be missed.
Enjoy an Agatha Christie-themed tour of Torquay, with visits to several locations with fascinating links to the Queen of Crime - in the company of historian and writer Lucy Worsley. You'll visit Greenway, Agatha's country holiday home; Burgh Island, which inspired the locations for two of Agatha Christie's novels; and even participate in a thrilling murder mystery dinner,
Discover the best of Norfolk by heritage rail and paddle boat on a four-night tour, in the company of esteemed historian Lucy Worsley. Not only will you enjoy three heritage rail journeys, along the Bure Valley Railway, Poppy Line and the Bittern Line, you'll also board the Southern Comfort Mississippi Paddle Boat for a Bure river cruise. However, the highlight of your tour will be a tour of Sandringham - the Royal Family's famous country retreat - with Lucy accompanying you.
Discover the spectacular islands of the Outer Hebrides, renowned for their scenic beauty, pristine beaches and incredible wildlife. Enjoy scenic ferry crossings to Stornoway, Berneray and Benbecula. Visit historical monuments including the Standing Stones of Callanish, the Norse Mill at Shawbost and the Black Houses at Gearrannan. A highlight of the trip is the company of naturalist and broadcaster Mike Dilger who will join you for the duration of the tour. Mike will give a talk and Q&A at your hotel on the second evening and will offer his expertise and insights throughout.
Read our exclusive chat with Mike Dilger
