THE BRITANNIC EXPLORER, A NEW ERA OF LUXURY RAILWAY TRAVEL IN BRITAIN
In July 2025, Belmond is set to redefine luxury train travel with the launch of the Britannic Explorer, the first-ever luxury sleeper train traversing the picturesque landscapes of England and Wales.
Offering an unparalleled fusion of timeless rail heritage and contemporary British style, this pioneering journey promises to elevate slow travel to a new level of sophistication. From gourmet dining created by Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan to exclusive cultural experiences, the Britannic Explorer is not just a train journey—it’s an adventure for the senses.
A Journey of Discovery Across Britain’s Most Beautiful Landscapes
The Britannic Explorer will embark on three-night journeys, each showcasing the awe-inspiring beauty and history of Britain. Passengers will have the opportunity to explore the rugged coastlines of Cornwall, the majestic peaks of the Lake District, and the breathtaking national parks of Wales. With each route offering a unique perspective on the country’s diverse landscapes, this new sleeper train offers more than just a travel experience—it’s an invitation to explore the heart and soul of Britain.
Each route includes carefully curated off-train excursions designed to immerse passengers in the local culture, from guided hikes through Wales’ wild landscapes to private art tours in Cornwall. And when the sun sets, guests can unwind in the train’s vibrant social hub—the botanically inspired Bar located in the Observation Car, where guests can mingle, enjoy a signature cocktail, and share stories of the day’s adventure.
Timeless Luxury, Modern Elegance
Designed by the renowned Albion Nord studio, the Britannic Explorer offers an exceptional standard of design that blends traditional British charm with contemporary luxury. The 18 cabins—including three Grand Suites and 15 Suites—have been meticulously crafted to provide a serene, elegant atmosphere. Inspired by the sweeping views of the British countryside, the interiors feature a color palette that mirrors the natural beauty outside, with subtle nods to heritage motifs and playful details that make each journey feel like a personal discovery.
Every element of the Britannic Explorer has been designed to create a sense of tranquility and comfort. Whether relaxing in the privacy of a Grand Suite, indulging in a luxurious spa treatment, or enjoying a meal with a view, every moment aboard this train is a sensory delight. The experience is as much about the journey as it is about the destination, with every detail carefully curated to enhance the overall luxury.
A Culinary Adventure Like No Other
No journey aboard the Britannic Explorer would be complete without a culinary experience that complements its world-class design. Under the direction of Simon Rogan, one of the UK’s leading chefs and a visionary in the farm-to-fork movement, the train’s dining offering will feature seasonal, locally sourced ingredients that celebrate the rich diversity of British produce. Rogan’s eight Michelin stars and two Michelin Green stars are a testament to his commitment to sustainability, quality, and innovative cuisine, and he brings this same philosophy to the Britannic Explorer’s onboard menus.
Each route will feature bespoke afternoon teas, lunch, and dinner, carefully designed to highlight the finest local specialties along the journey. Rogan’s menus will allow passengers to experience the essence of each region, from Cornwall’s fresh seafood to Wales’ hearty fare and the Lake District’s game meats and seasonal vegetables. Whether enjoying a lavish meal in the dining car or sipping a cocktail in the vibrant Bar, guests will be treated to a truly extraordinary gastronomic adventure.
The Bar, inspired by Victorian apothecaries, provides an elegant and convivial atmosphere where guests can sip on botanically inspired cocktails, craft beers, and gins from some of the UK’s finest independent distilleries. The carefully curated drinks menu enhances the train’s spirit of adventure, offering a unique taste of Britain’s burgeoning craft spirits scene.
Exclusive Cultural Experiences
The Britannic Explorer is not only a journey through Britain’s most stunning natural landscapes, but also an immersive cultural adventure. With exclusive access to some of the nation’s most iconic destinations, guests will have the opportunity to experience world-class galleries, breathtaking national parks, and historically rich cities in ways that few others will.
Highlights of the journey include a private tour and dinner at Hauser & Wirth Somerset, one of the UK’s leading contemporary art galleries, and a visit to Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens in Cornwall. In Wales, guided hikes through the rugged beauty of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park offer guests the chance to experience the stunning wilderness up close. For those visiting the Lake District, wild swimming in crystal-clear lakes and guided tours of this UNESCO World Heritage site promise an unforgettable experience.
A New Standard in Luxury Rail Travel
With the launch of the Britannic Explorer, Belmond is continuing its tradition of offering exceptional travel experiences. The new train adds to the company’s esteemed portfolio of luxury rail journeys, including the British Pullman, A Belmond Train, which celebrates Art Deco elegance, and the Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland’s only luxury sleeper train through the Highlands.
But the Britannic Explorer is set to carve a new niche in the world of luxury rail travel, offering guests a chance to explore the very best of Britain in a way that’s truly unique. Whether embarking on a journey through the coastal beauty of Cornwall, the tranquil lakes of the Lake District, or the rugged mountains of Wales, guests will experience luxury travel as it’s meant to be—intimate, immersive, and unforgettable.
A Perfect Prelude or Finale: Belmond’s UK Hotels
For those seeking a seamless travel experience, the Britannic Explorer offers the perfect complement to Belmond’s portfolio of exceptional UK hotels. Guests can enjoy a pre- or post-journey stay at The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, London, a tranquil retreat just minutes from Victoria Station. Alternatively, the Britannic Explorer offers an exclusive stop at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel, Oxfordshire, a Michelin two-star manor house hotel and restaurant in the heart of the Cotswolds.
The Ultimate in Luxury Rail Travel
With luxury accommodation starting from £11,000 for a three-night itinerary, including excursions, meals, and beverages, the Britannic Explorer offers an all-inclusive experience that’s as luxurious as it is unforgettable. For more information and to book your journey aboard this groundbreaking new train, visit the Belmond website.
This is slow travel like never before—an adventure that’s more about the journey than the destination, offering a rare opportunity to experience the very best of Britain in the most luxurious way possible.
Leave a Reply