Inside Britain's most expensive train - with Michelin-star meals and on-board spa
The Britannic Explorer, A Belmont Train, offers guests a three-night journey through the picturesque landscapes of England and Wales aboard a service boasting 18 'extraordinary' cabins.
Departing from London on 21 July, the train will pass through three distinct routes, Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales, with each meticulously designed to immerse guests in the region's scenery and culture.
Hopping aboard Britain's most opulent train ride doesn't come cheap, with accommodation starting at £11,000 based on a double cabin.
But tickets also offer guests a unique, all-inclusive itinerary, with access to an onboard bar, a marble-covered spa, an observation car, excursions and curated three-Michelin-starred menus.
Each of the three Grand Suites and 15 Suites have been designed with timeless elegance by the renowned London-based studio, Albion Nord, in collaboration with Luke Edward Hall, Mel Campion and Olly Fathers.
All eight carriages exude a refined, timeless yet refreshingly modern ambience, with fabrics, layered textures, hand-selected antiques and touches of gold detailing coming together to create a rich, distinctive aesthetic.
Natural materials, such as wood, wool and stone, are paired with neutral, earthy colour palettes inspired by the English countryside, providing a tranquil environment while guests journey through stunning outdoor scenery.
Onboard, passengers can indulge in a 'world-class dining experience' across two dining cars, Malva and Samphire.
At the heart of the onboard dining experience, 'showcasing the very best of seasonal British produce', is the farm-to-fork philosophy of Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan.
Located in the Observation Car is the train's botanically inspired bar, 'offering guests a relaxed, social environment' along with a selection of cocktails, local gins, and craft beers.
Meanwhile, a dedicated Wellness Suite, created in partnership with Wildsmith, 'provides a tranquil space for relaxation and rejuvenation on each journey'.
The Wellness Suite, designed to emulate a calming beach landscape with muted hues, will also house the first spa experience on a train in England and Wales.
Emphasising slow travel, The Britannic Explorer offers guests the opportunity to re-discover the beauty and spirit of England and Wales at an unhurried pace, whether in pursuit of a luxurious trip or a deeper connection to British history and heritage.
The launch of the train marks a significant expansion of Belmond's award-winning UK portfolio, comprised of exceptional trains and heritage hotels.
The Britannic Explorer's General Manager, Hendrik Huebner, says: 'The launch of the Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train, marks a pivotal moment, forging a new chapter in British rail innovation.
Emphasising slow travel, The Britannic Explorer 'offers guests the opportunity to re-discover the beauty and spirit of England and Wales at an unhurried pace', whether in pursuit of a luxurious trip or a deeper connection to British history and heritage
'The new British icon, the Britannic Explorer embodies the true spirit of adventure. Offering the ultimate luxury on rails, our guests will discover a new perspective on contemporary Britain.'
The Britannic Explorer's maiden voyage will take place on 21 July to Wales, followed by Cornwall on 25 July. For reservations or more information, visit here.
It comes as Canadian company Bombardier Aviation has revealed its Global 8000, a swanky private plane that flies at Mach 0.94 (720mph).
The luxury jet features a full-size kitchen, cinema, beds, showers, high-speed internet and an anti-jet lag lighting system.
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