A Journey Through England and Wales,

Steeped in Heritage and Design

—

On 21 July 2025, the Britannic Explorer, a Belmond Train, will welcome its first guests in Wales, followed by a second departure from Cornwall on 25 July, marking a new chapter in luxury rail travel across the United Kingdom. As the first sleeper train of its kind to traverse England and Wales, this bold new venture redefines slow travel with a distinctly British flair.

Design That Moves You

The train’s eighteen cabins have been curated by Albion Nord, the London-based studio known for its quietly confident approach to interiors, in collaboration with a remarkable line-up of British creatives including Luke Edward Hall, Mel Campion, and Olly Fathers. Together, they’ve brought to life a design language that feels timeless, yet entirely unexpected.

From the elegant Grand Suites to the richly layered Suites, each space blends layered textures, earthy palettes, and natural materials – think stone, wool, and wood – with a playful dose of British charm. Interiors draw inspiration from the landscapes outside the window, channelling the rolling hills and rugged coastlines of the countryside into tactile finishes and storybook palettes.

Luke Edward Hall’s whimsical Rubelli rework features on wallpaper and bespoke armchairs, while Olly Fathers’ geometric abstractions and Marcus James’s Lake District landscapes add modern edge. Mel Campion’s exquisite shell mirrors, Rose Uniacke’s sculptural lighting, Sarah Woods’s calming beachscapes in the Wellness Suite, and vibrant dining room artwork by Ed Burkes and Adam Halls further enrich the visual narrative. Each detail is not just decorative, but deeply rooted in the spirit of place.

On Board: Elevated Indulgence

Under the culinary direction of Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan, with Executive Head Chef Sven-Hanson Britt at the helm, the Britannic Explorer offers seasonal menus that celebrate British produce through a farm-to-table philosophy. Dishes are inspired by the journey itself – highlighting regional flavours and sustainable sourcing in every bite.

Guests can unwind in the Wellness Suite, created in partnership with Wildsmith, or sip cocktails in the elegant Observation Car – the social heart of the train. Whether reclining in the privacy of their suite or soaking in a panoramic view with a glass of wine, every moment is designed for pure, unhurried pleasure.

The Journey: Where the Wild Things Are

Each three-night itinerary reveals a different story of Britain’s landscapes – from the dramatic coastlines of Cornwall to the misty majesty of the Lake District, and the storied valleys of Wales. These journeys are more than routes; they’re immersive cultural experiences.

Off the train, guests can explore a rotating collection of bespoke excursions including coastal sailing, yoga by the sea, wild swimming, paddleboarding, rowing, and valley hikes. Other highlights include lavender field walks, wood-fired saunas, and art classes that connect each traveller to the local culture and landscape in body, mind, and soul.

Beyond the Rails: A Seamless Belmond Escape

To extend the experience, guests are invited to begin or end their journey with a stay at The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, just 20 minutes from London Victoria Station. And for those exploring the Lake District itinerary, a highlight awaits: a gala dinner at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, the iconic two-Michelin-starred manor by Raymond Blanc, celebrated for its pioneering approach to sustainable British garden gastronomy.

Crafting the New British Icon

The Britannic Explorer isn’t just a train – it’s a moving canvas of British identity, where design, craftsmanship, storytelling, and slow travel meet. It joins Belmond’s award-winning UK portfolio, which includes the British Pullman and the Royal Scotsman, further cementing the brand’s role as a curator of deeply immersive, experiential travel.

If you enjoyed this article, you should check out our A New Era for Belmond Hotel on the Italian Riviera