Belmond has unveiled the Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train, the first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales, debuting in July 2025. The slow train blends timeless rail heritage with contemporary British gastronomy, culture, and style.
The Britannic Explorer will depart from London, offering three-night journeys with a choice of three routes through the natural landscapes of Cornwall, The Lake District, and Wales. By day, optional off-train guided excursions will showcase the cultural tapestry, beauty, and history of each destination, and by night, passengers can unwind in the train’s botanically inspired Bar, located in the Observation Car.
The routes are scheduled to allow travelers to combine two regional journeys into one trip: The Cornwall and Lake District routes run from Friday to Monday, while the Wales route runs from Monday to Thursday.
Renowned London-based studio, Albion Nord, has created the interiors, distinct to the train, which has 18 cabins. The three Grand Suites and 15 Suites have been carefully crafted in Britain.
The dining experience aboard the Britannic Explorer will be designed by restaurateur Simon Rogan, a leader in Britain’s farm-to-fork movement. He is known for his innovative approach and high-quality restaurants, which collectively hold eight Michelin stars and two Michelin Green stars worldwide. His acclaimed establishment, L’Enclume, is a highlight of his culinary vision.
Rogan’s menus will celebrate seasonal, sustainable ingredients, sourced locally to showcase the richness of Britain’s diverse regions. Each of the three routes will feature bespoke afternoon tea, lunch and dinner menus, highlighting local specialties.
The Bar, inspired by Victorian apothecaries, provides an atmosphere where guests can savor a menu of innovative, botanically inspired cocktails, alongside a carefully curated selection of artisan gins and craft beers, highlighting the offerings from the UK’s independent distilleries and breweries.
Additionally, an on-board wellness suite will offer therapies, while the train's cultural programming will showcase the essence of Britain.
The Britannic Explorer will offer exclusive journeys and privileged access to some of the region’s most iconic destinations. Guests can experience renowned galleries, national parks, and historically rich cities. Highlights include a private tour and dinner at Hauser & Wirth Somerset and on-site restaurant Da Costa, guided hikes through Wales, wild swimming in the landscapes of the Lake district and a visit to Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens in Cornwall.
The launch of the Britannic Explorer further elevates Belmond’s UK portfolio of trains and heritage hotels. The iconic British Pullman, A Belmond Train, England, is celebrated for its Art Deco design and day trips, and the Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland, offers the nation’s only luxury touring sleeper train through the Highlands. Belmond’s boutique hotel, The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, London, just a 20-minute transfer from the London Victoria station, will offer a seamless pre- or post-rail stay. For those traveling through the Cotswolds on the Lake District route, the Britannic Explorer offers an exclusive stop at the Michelin two-star manor house hotel and restaurant, Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel, Oxfordshire.
Luxury accommodation aboard the Britannic Explorer starts from £11,000 (around $13,985) based on a double cabin to include a three-night itinerary, excursions, meals, wine and alcoholic beverages on board.
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