Top 5 Expert-Led Tours for 2026
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.
The island of Madeira is known for its horticultural highlights and on this eight-day tour, you'll experience them all. From the orchid nurseries at Palheiro Gardens to the vibrant colours of the Monte and the exceptional rose gardens at Quinta do Arco in São Jorge - whether you're a garden hobbyist or a budding horticulturist, this tour is for you. The highlight is seeing the fabulous Flower Festival with Gardeners' World presenter Adam Frost. Adam will also give a talk and answer your questions in a Q&A.
Can't make this date? Join Adam Frost as you cruise Dutch waterways and visit the Keukenhof Gardens in the spring.
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.
Join Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge and cruise the Venetian lagoon on board the luxurious ship SS La Venezia. You'll have exclusive access to some of the city's top sights including St Mark's Basilica, the church on Torcello and Doge's palace. You'll also have the opportunity to spend time in Burano, Murano, Mazzorbo, and Chioggia - with excursions included along the way. Tom will join you for part of the cruise, hosting a talk, Q&A, and cooking demonstration.
