In 2025, Belmond will debut Britain’s first luxury sleeper train service in England and Wales, complete with a wellness suite and cuisine from eight Michelin-starred chef, Simon Rogan. Olivia Palamountain reports
Belmond‘s Britannic Explorer will mark a significant innovation in British rail travel when it launches in July 2025, offering three-night journeys through Cornwall, the Lake District and Wales.
The first luxury sleeper service across England and Wales, the Britannic Explorer allows passengers to combine two regional journeys, with Cornwall and Lake District routes operating Friday to Monday, and Wales routes running Monday to Thursday.
The train’s 18 cabins, comprising three “Grand Suites” and 15 suites, have been crafted in Britain and designed by London-based studio Albion Nord. Eleven of the coaches were formerly used by the Grand Hibernian train (which ran in Ireland between 2016 and 2021).
Carriage interiors reflect the changing views beyond the picture windows, with colours drawn from Britain’s dramatic coastlines and rolling hills.
Heritage motifs and playful details create spaces that are both tranquil and vibrant, whether guests are retreating to their private cabin or socialising in the communal areas.
In an impressive culinary collaboration, Belmond has partnered with eight Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan to oversee the dining experience over two carriages – Malva and Samphire. Rogan, known for his acclaimed restaurant L’Enclume and his commitment to sustainable farming, will create bespoke menus for each route.
“True luxury lies in humble ingredients, grown with care, respect for their surroundings, and harvested at their peak,” says Rogan. “I am very excited to bring this approach to the launch of the Britannic Explorer, where each plate will reflect Britain’s diverse landscapes.”
The train features several unusual amenities, including an on-board wellness suite “that will host daily activities, with aestheticians and massage therapists on hand to provide a detox”, writes The Telegraph.
Thirsty? A botanically inspired Bar in the Observation Car will draw inspiration from Victorian apothecaries, will serve innovative cocktails alongside artisanal British gins and craft beers.
The journeys include exclusive experiences such as private tours of Hauser & Wirth Somerset, wild swimming in the Lake District, and visits to Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens in Cornwall.
Gary Franklin, Belmond’s vice president of trains and cruises, describes it as “revolutionary,” noting that it offers “an opportunity to discover the rugged Cornish coastline to Snowdonia’s untamed National Park and the vast expanses of the Lake District like never before.”
The luxury experience comes with a premium price tag, starting at £11,000 for a double cabin on a three-night journey, inclusive of excursions, meals and beverages.
The Britannic Explorer joins Belmond’s existing UK portfolio, which includes the day-trip focused British Pullman and Scotland’s Royal Scotsman sleeper train. Passengers can complement their journey with stays at Belmond’s London hotel, The Cadogan, or the two Michelin-starred Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxfordshire, which will be an exclusive stop on the Lake District route.
