Belmond has unveiled the Britannic Explorer, England and Wales’ first truly luxury sleeper train, set to embark on its maiden voyage this July 2025. This isn’t mere travel; it’s an immersive narrative crafted across time-honored landscapes, where every detail whispers refined restraint and artisanal passion.
Boarding from London Victoria, the eight-carriage marvel carries just 36 guests across 18 sumptuous cabins – 15 stylish Suites and 3 lavish Grand Suites complete with private ensuites and butler service. Interiors, penned by Albion Nord in concert with British creatives like Luke Edward Hall and Olly Fathers, meld organic textures—wood, wool, stone, with bold antiques, layered fabrics, and botanical motifs inspired by the pastoral and coastal British terrain.
Dining onboard is an epicurean celebration led by Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan, whose menus pivot on seasonal, locally sourced British produce in two dedicated dining cars, Malva and Samphire. From elegant afternoon teas to tasting menus, each service unfolds as a journey in itself.
The Botanical Bar, situated in the observation carriage, offers inventive cocktails infused with regional botanicals and a curated selection of craft spirits – perfect for reflecting on the rolling countryside vista. Complementing the culinary experience is the UK’s first spa suite onboard, developed with Wildsmith Skin, offering massage and wellness therapies while the train glides through the landscape.
Journeys unfold across three-night itineraries through Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales – with the freedom to combine them into extended voyages. Onboard luxury is matched by curated off-train activities: think seaside yoga, wild swimming in Lakeland lakes, wood-fired Welsh saunas, and exclusive immersion in regional arts and culture.
Pricing starts at £11,000 for a double cabin on a three-night journey – covering all meals, drinks, excursions, and onboard experiences. While the aspirational price tag may raise brows, the Britannic Explorer firmly stakes its claim as the ultimate slow-luxury retreat, where time is savored, and every moment is a curated pleasure.
Belmond’s Britannic Explorer isn’t just a train, it’s a moving country manor, a stage for exploration, and a testament to British craftsmanship at its most elevated.
All aboard the future of luxury, reimagined through the timeless lens of British grandeur.
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