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Bangkok Post
21-07-2025
- Bangkok Post
The Britannic Explorer makes history
The Britannic Explorer, the first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales, will make history on July 21 for its maiden voyage. The train's interiors have been meticulously crafted by London-based studio Albion Nord, in collaboration with Luke Edward Hall, Mel Campion and Olly Fathers. The eight carriages seamlessly weave British wit and charm into every detail. Bold fabrics, layered textures and hand-selected antiques draw inspiration from the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Natural materials like wood, stone and wool are paired with earthy tones and tactile finishes. Each of the train's 18 cabins, comprising three Grand Suites and 15 Suites, has been crafted in Britain and offers sweeping views of Britain's rugged coastlines and rolling hills. Whether guests choose to unwind in the privacy of their cabins, rejuvenate in the onboard spa or savour exceptional fare in the restaurant cars, the experience is luxurious. Departing from London Victoria Station, guests will embark on three-night itineraries to some of the nation's most iconic regions: dramatic coastlines of Cornwall, majestic landscapes of the Lake District, and the storied heartlands of Wales. Under chef Simon Rogan, a pioneer of Britain's farm-to-fork movement, executive head chef Sven-Hanson Britt executes seasonal menus that showcase the finest British produce. Well-being is given equal prominence with a dedicated Wellness Suite, created in partnership with Wildsmith. In Cornwall, highlights include coastal sailing and revitalising yoga sessions by the sea; wild swimming, rowing and paddle boarding in the Lake District; and scenic valley hikes, lavender farm visits, wood-fired saunas, and art classes in the heart of Wales. To complement the rail experience, guests are invited to extend their journey with a seamless pre- or post-journey stay at The Cadogan in London.
West Australian
09-07-2025
- West Australian
Luxury sleeper train, The Britannic Explorer, ready to run
The first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales, the Britannic Explorer, makes its first run on July 21. Part of the Belmond train stable, it will leave London Victoria Station for three-night itineraries to iconic regions — the coastline of Cornwall, the Lake District and the heartlands of Wales. A spokesperson for the Britannic Explorer team promises: 'The pioneering train embodies modern British identity through playing with history, style and personality to create something unexpected and unconventional.' Within eight carriages featuring bold fabrics and carefully selected antiques are 18 cabins, comprising three grand suites and 15 suites. There's restaurant cars and a spa. The spokesperson says: 'The design draws inspiration from the serene, organic beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Natural materials — wood, stone and wool — are thoughtfully paired with earthy tones and tactile finishes, evoking the elegance of the British countryside. 'The result is a harmonious blend of tradition and modern luxury, where guests feel simultaneously grounded in nature and enveloped in the distinctive style of the Britannic Explorer.' The train's interior has been designed by London-based studio Albion Nord, in collaboration with Luke Edward Hall, Mel Campion and Olly Fathers. + Luke is famous for fusing classical motifs with contemporary vibrancy. He has reinterpreted a Rubelli fabric with a 'whimsical and illustrative design inspired by elements that guests will see along their travels — from botanicals to key landmarks'. + Shell artist Mel Campion has created mirrors for the powder rooms. + Designer Rose Uniacke brings her understated touch to the custom light fittings. + In the wellness suite, painter and printmaker Sarah Woods has captured a calming beach landscape in muted hues. + The dining carriages have depictions of dancing figures by Ed Burkes, and Adam Halls' hand-dyed fabric creations inspired by lichen and algae. + The grand suites have striking panels by Brixton-based Olly Fathers, who is known for bold, geometric abstracts. + Those suites also have Marcus James' intricate multicoloured pen depictions of the landscapes of the Lake District. + Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan, a pioneer of Britain's farm-to-fork movement, leads the dining team. Executive head chef Sven-Hanson Britt will present seasonal menus that feature British produce, with an emphasis on good provenance and sustainability. + There are lots of excursions, from coastal sailing and yoga sessions by the sea in Cornwall to wild swimming, rowing and paddleboarding in the Lake District. In Wales, art classes are offered. A double cabin with the three-night itinerary, excursions, meals, wine and alcoholic beverages on board is from $11,000. or email
Hypebeast
07-07-2025
- Business
- Hypebeast
Belmond's New Train – the 'Britannic Explorer' – is Peak British Luxury
Just days after it wasrevealedthat the British royal family'sRoyal Trainis being decommissioned in 2027, upscale hospitality and leisure companyBelmond– part of theLVMHportfolio – has announced that it's launching theBritannic Explorer, a lavish new locomotive it describes as 'the first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales.' TheBritannic Explorerjoins Belmond's storied fleet of opulent – bordering on majestic – sleeper trains, including theAndean Explorer, which takes passengers on an alpine odyssey across Peru's lakes and mountains, and theRoyal Scotsman, with its 40 years of service and adventure across the Scottish Highlands – and it's making its maiden voyage this month. Starting July 21, theBritannic Explorerwill depart from London's Victoria Station on carefully curated three-night itineraries, taking take guests to England's southern Cornish coastline, north through Cumbria to the picturesque Lake District, then into the Welsh heartland before returning to the capital. It features a total of 18 cabins – comprising 15 regular suites and three grand suites – and has an aesthetic borrowed straight from the British countryside: throughout the train you'll find natural materials like wood, stone and wool – organic elements inspired by the 'beauty of the surrounding landscapes,' according to Belmond – that are complimented by a color palette of earthy tones, which the brand says add to theBritannic Explorer's'vibrant character.' But while theBritannic Exploreris filled with decidedly British details, the brand is inviting would-be guests to 'forget stuffy tradition' – because, Belmond says, its latest locomotive 'embodies modern British identity' instead. It describes the interior of the new train as 'refined yet bold' and 'timeless yet unexpected,' with 'bold fabrics playing off layered textures and hand-selected antiques.' These, the brand says, create a rich, warm aesthetic that blends 'timeless elegance and modern flair.' To achieve its vision, Belmond enlisted contemporary designers from across the United Kingdom – includingLuke Edward Hall,Mel Campion, and Brixton-basedOlly Fathers– that embody the 'evolving spirit' of the nation, all of whom collaborated with London-based studio Albion Nord on the train's design. The outcome, according to Belmond, is a train that blends 'history, style, and personality to create something unexpected and unconventional.' As you'd expect, catering on board theBritannic Exploreris as elevated as the rest of the experience. The train's menus have been devised by renowned Michelin-starred chefSimon Rogan, who Belmond describes as 'a pioneer of Britain's farm-to-fork movement.' Rogan's menus will rotate seasonally, but the food at its core will always showcase the best of Britain's produce. Health and wellness hasn't been ignored either, and guests will have access to a dedicated suite that Belmond has created with Wildsmith, which it describes as a 'tranquil sanctuary for relaxation and restoration on board.' Whether by chance or happenstance, Belmond's timing is impeccable: 183 years (to the month) after Queen Victoria took her first trip on the soon-to-be-retiredRoyal Train, Belmond'sBritannic Explorermight just offer royals and non-royals alike a chance to explore the country in a way fit for a king or queen. From coastal sailing in Cornwall to wood-fired saunas in Wales, theBritannic Exploreroffers a unique way to experience the United Kingdom.
Wales Online
07-07-2025
- Wales Online
New luxury train between London and Wales is like nothing you've ever seen, and tickets cost £16,000
New luxury train between London and Wales is like nothing you've ever seen, and tickets cost £16,000 Choo Choo! This luxury train is due to roll into Wales with an eye-watering price tag. The luxury train mixes old-school rail charm with a modern British twist. (Image: Belmond ) A luxurious rail journey from London to Wales has been announced by Belmond, the world-famous Orient Express operator, and its high-priced tickets are selling fast. The opulent 'Britannic Explorer' service will depart from London, from July 21. This swish sleeper train offers three-night journeys along three routes through the landscapes of Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales. Routes are scheduled to allow travellers to combine two regional journeys into one trip: The Cornwall and Lake District routes run from Friday to Monday, while the Wales route runs from Monday to Thursday. The three-night London to Wales rail journey includes accommodation, fine dining, and excursions and takes passengers on a 'slow travel' experience from London through the Cotswolds and deep into Wales. Stops include the historic spa town of Llandrindod Wells, Machynlleth, and scenic highlights like Barmouth Bridge and Porthmadog near Eryri National Park (Snowdonia). The train will also visit Haverfordwest on the Pembrokeshire coast. According to The Telegraph, the ten-carriage Britannic Explorer train will accommodate just 36 guests. Twin cabins cost £11,000, and suites with double beds cost a whopping £16,000. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here Article continues below The ten-carriage Britannic Explorer train will accommodate just 36 guests. (Image: Belmond ) Each journey starts in London, with daytime excursions planned along the route. These are optional, but they're a good way to explore the local history, landscapes, and culture without the usual tourist crowds. Evenings on board are set to be relaxed, with guests gathering in the botanically themed Bar in the Observation Car for carefully crafted cocktails. The wellness suite offers treatments designed to help travellers unwind between stops and indulge in treatments. Inside, the luxury train mixes old-school rail charm with a modern British twist. There are three Grand Suites and 15 Suites, all designed and built in Britain with careful attention to detail. Designed by London interiors studio Albion Nord, the carriages are filled with subtle nods to British design and nature, earthy tones, heritage patterns, and big picture windows to frame the passing countryside. From the privacy of opulent cabins to the onboard spa or the Bar and restaurant cars, the whole experience is designed to feel special. Operator Belmond also promises passengers "a new chapter of exceptional slow travel. The pioneering train fuses a celebration of timeless rail heritage with contemporary British gastronomy, culture, and style." Food is set to be a highlight with fine dining experiences created by renowned Chef Simon Rogan (Image: Belmond ) Food is set to be a highlight with fine dining experiences created by renowned Chef Simon Rogan, who is celebrated for his creative cooking and exceptional quality across his restaurants, holding eight Michelin stars and two Michelin Green stars worldwide. Rogan's menus will celebrate seasonal, sustainable ingredients sourced locally to showcase the richness of Britain's diverse regions. Each of the three routes will feature bespoke afternoon tea, lunch, and dinner menus, highlighting local specialities and the UK's culinary heritage. 'Across all my restaurants, my dishes are defined by local, often home-grown produce, says Chef 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. I hope every passenger not only enjoys the flavours but also feels a connection between the dishes and the journey, making their time on board truly memorable.' Despite the high price tag, demand for this special service is very strong. The Standard reports that cabins are now 70 per cent booked for the remainder of the year. Demand for luxury train travel is experiencing a resurgence, with operators reporting record bookings and increased interest in curated high-end rail experiences. This travel trend is driven by a desire for immersive, nostalgic journeys and a growing preference for slow travel and sustainable options. Belmond is well-positioned to capitalise on this growing appetite for luxurious journeys. Gary Franklin, Vice President of Trains and Cruises at Belmond, commented: "I am incredibly proud to launch this revolutionary new train, which further enhances Belmond's global portfolio of market-leading luxury rail experiences. The Britannic Explorer offers something truly unique: an opportunity to discover the rugged Cornish coastline, Eryri's untamed National Park, and the vast expanses of the Lake District like never before." Article continues below Luxury accommodation aboard the Britannic Explorer starts from £11,000 based on a double cabin, including a 3-night itinerary, excursions, meals, wine, and alcoholic beverages on board. For more information or to book, visit the web page here.
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Travel + Leisure
03-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
England's First Luxury Sleeper Train Is Set to Depart in July—With Fine Dining, a Victorian-inspired Bar Car, and a Spa
On July 21, the Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train will depart from London's Victoria Station on its inaugural journey, marking the debut of England and Wales' first luxury sleeper train. The plush eight-carriage locomotive offers three-night itineraries designed to showcase the coast of Cornwall, the villages and woodlands of Wales, or the mountainous Lake District. 'The launch of the Britannic Explorer is an important moment for Belmond as we build on the heritage of English and Welsh train travel with the introduction of the first luxury sleeper train,' Belmond CEO Dan Ruff tells Travel + Leisure . 'The train embodies slow luxury, allowing our guests to disconnect from their daily lives and discover design showcasing British wit and charm, food and drink reflecting the landscapes and flavors of the regions the train passes through, and off-board experiences that provide special access to some of the most intriguing locations in England and Wales.' The Britannic Explorer accommodates just 36 guests across 18 cabins—including 15 suites and three Grand Suites—each outfitted with interiors that take inspiration from the country's natural landscapes. London-based studio Albion Nord collaborated with artists Luke Edward Hall, Mel Campion, and Olly Fathers to create spaces filled with bold bespoke fabrics and wallpapers, artwork, and antique treasures that exude distinctly British character. Two restaurant cars, Malva and Samphire, feature menus created by chef Simon Rogan, a pioneer of sustainable British gastronomy behind restaurants like the three-Michelin-starred L'Enclume in Cumbria. The menus celebrate each region's star ingredients. On the Cornwall journey, for example, two dishes that spotlight local ingredients are the St. Ives Bay spider crab with hand-harvested seaweed, and Devon duck roasted with wild fennel. The Observation Car features a warm, wood-paneled bar with ochre banquettes and amber glass details inspired by Victorian apothecaries. There, guests can sip quintessential gin and tonics alongside other destination-inspired cocktails. Each journey begins with afternoon tea featuring regional specialties such as Welsh tea cakes and bara brith fruit cake. Beyond the plush accommodations and fine dining, an onboard Wellness Suite offers a menu of massages and facials developed with British skincare brand Wildsmith. The wellness experience extends to curated off-train activities, too—think wood-fired saunas and scenic hikes in Wales, and wild swimming and rowing in the Lake District. Each itinerary immerses passengers in the best of the region. The Wales journey includes Eryri National Park, the Pembrokeshire coast, a working lavender farm, and an intimate evening at a traditional Cotswolds pub. Lake District passengers can play English lawn games at Lingholm Estate, the Grade II-listed Victorian mansion where Beatrix Potter once summered. Cornwall travelers experience private wine tastings and coastal boat tours showcasing the region's idyllic shoreline. The Britannic Explorer joins the slate of Belmond luxury trains around the world, from Peru's Andean Explorer to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express taking passengers from Paris to Venice, among other iconic European cities. These journeys underscore the growing interest in luxury train travel, part of the broader slow travel trend that prioritizes deeper exploration of fewer destinations over rushed itineraries, soaking up the journey just as much as the destination. 'Our guests aboard the Britannic Explorer will experience a new pace of travel as they celebrate the contemporary heritage of England and Wales,' says Ruff. Three-night itineraries on the Britannic Explorer, a Belmond Train start from £11,000 ($15,118) based on a double cabin and including excursions, meals, wine and alcoholic beverages on board, and you can book at
