Latest news with #MelCampion
Bangkok Post
2 days ago
- 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.
Daily Mail
03-07-2025
- Daily Mail
Inside Britain's most expensive train - with Michelin-star meals and on-board spa
Belmond has released breathtaking first-look photos of the first luxury sleeper train to operate in England and Wales ahead of its debut this month. 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.
Hospitality Net
03-07-2025
- Hospitality Net
The Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train Makes History As It Takes To The Rails
The Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train - the first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales - will make history on 4th July 2025 for its maiden voyage. Set to become a new icon, the pioneering train embodies modern British identity through playing with history, style, and personality to create something unexpected and unconventional. CRAFTING THE NEW BRITISH ICON The train's interior design has been meticulously crafted by London-based studio Albion Nord, in collaboration with Luke Edward Hall, Mel Campion and Olly Fathers. The eight carriages exude a refined ambiance and thoughtful sophistication, seamlessly weaving British wit and charm into every detail. Bold fabrics, layered textures, and hand-selected antiques come together to create a rich, characterful aesthetic that feels both timeless and modern. Rooted in a vision to bring the outside in, 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. Each of the train's 18 cabins, comprising three Grand Suites and 15 Suites, have been carefully crafted in Britain and designed to make the journey as extraordinary as the destination. Inspired by sweeping views of Britain's rugged coastlines and rolling hills, each moment is transformed into a visual feast. Whether guests choose to unwind in the privacy of their cabin, rejuvenate in the onboard spa, or savour exceptional fare in the elegant and restaurant cars, the experience is one of unparalleled luxury and comfort. MEET THE MAKERS The project has brought together some of Britain's most celebrated designers and artisans in a masterful collaboration that honours the art of craftsmanship through bespoke commissions. Each contributor has been carefully selected for their distinctive vision and ability to elevate the Britannic Explorer's interiors with refined creativity and flair. Among them is leading British designer Luke Edward Hall, renowned for fusing classical motifs with contemporary vibrancy. Working in collaboration with Albion Nord, Luke 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. His design features prominently on the wallpaper in the Double Suites and the bespoke armchairs in the Grand Suites. The artistic journey continues in the Grand Suites with striking contemporary panels by Brixton-based Olly Fathers, known for his bold, geometric abstractions, and Marcus James's intricate multicoloured pen depictions of the dramatic landscapes of the Lake District. Further enhancing the visual narrative, shell artist Mel Campion has created exquisite mirrors for the Powder Rooms, while celebrated designer Rose Uniacke lends her signature understated elegance to the custom organic light fittings. In the Wellness Suite, painter and printmaker, Sarah Woods, has captured a calming beach landscape through meditative works in muted hues. The dining carriages come alive with Ed Burkes's colourful depictions of dancing figures, infusing a sense of movement and playfulness, complemented by Adam Halls's impactful, multi-layered, hand-dyed fabric creations inspired by the lichen and algae found in nature, mounted onto the panelled walls. Together, these elements weave a rich tapestry of British design, where every detail contributes to a journey steeped in style, artistry, and character. CAPTURING THE SPIRIT OF A NATION The Britannic Explorer invites guests to rediscover the ever-evolving spirit of England and Wales, whether in pursuit of a luxurious staycation or a deeper connection to British heritage. Departing from London Victoria Station, guests will embark on thoughtfully curated three night itineraries to some of the nation's most iconic regions: dramatic coastlines of Cornwall, the majestic landscapes of the Lake District, and the storied heartlands of Wales. Under the visionary leadership of Michelin-starred 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, honouring provenance and commitment to sustainability. Wellbeing is given equal prominence with a dedicated Wellness Suite, created in partnership with Wildsmith, providing a tranquil sanctuary for relaxation and restoration on board. Each journey is enriched by a curated programme of off-board experiences designed to immerse guests in local culture and the landscapes of each destination. In Cornwall, highlights include coastal sailing and revitalising yoga sessions by the sea; wild swimming, rowing, and paddleboarding 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, A Belmond Hotel, London, located just 20 minutes from London Victoria, an oasis of calm in the heart of the capital. For those travelling on the Lake District itinerary, when travelling through the Cotswolds, guests will enjoy a gala dinner at the Michelin two-starred manor house hotel and restaurant by Chef Patron Raymond Blanc, Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons, A Belmond Hotel, Oxfordshire - a legend in sustainable British garden gastronomy since 1984. The launch of the Britannic Explorer marks a significant expansion of Belmond's award winning UK portfolio comprised of exceptional trains and heritage hotels. It joins the iconic British Pullman, renowned for its Art Deco glamour and unforgettable day journeys through England, and the Royal Scotsman, the nation's only luxury touring sleeper train, offering immersive journeys through the dramatic Highlands and islands of Scotland. Hotel website
