The Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train, U.K.: The first ever luxury sleeper train to tour England and Wales will take to the tracks in July 2025. (Belmond via CNN Newsource)
LONDON – The U.K. is set to launch its first-ever luxury sleeper train next summer, marking a new chapter in Britain’s rail history. The Britannic Explorer, a Belmond Train, will begin its journeys from London in July 2025, offering travelers a chance to explore England and Wales in unparalleled comfort. The train will operate three scenic routes through Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales, showcasing the country’s stunning landscapes of hills, valleys, and coastlines.
The train’s 18 lavish cabins, including three grand suites and 15 suites, promise a level of luxury never before seen on British railways. A preview of one of the cabins, revealed at a railway depot in south London last week, reveals an atmosphere of refined elegance. The cabin features finely crafted oak paneling, a marbled table surface, plush velvet sofas, and rich carpeting, creating a cozy, inviting space.
However, such opulence comes at a price. A three-night journey in a double cabin, which includes meals, excursions, wine, and alcoholic drinks, starts at £11,000 (approximately $14,103). But for those who can afford it, the experience promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.
The design, created by the London-based studio Albion Nord, draws inspiration from English homes and gardens. The soothing color palette of soft greens and creams mirrors the natural beauty outside the windows, creating an atmosphere that is, according to Ottavia Palomba, Belmond's global head of brand communications, akin to a "moving painting."
Within this tranquil setting, guests can unwind while enjoying breathtaking views from the comfort of their suite, which features a private bathroom, bed, sofa, and swivel armchair. What sets this experience apart from other forms of luxury transport is the sense of camaraderie it offers. The train’s sociable atmosphere is a key feature, with guests mingling in the elegant dining cars, which are designed to evoke the ambiance of an English country estate.
The dining experience on board will be overseen by Simon Rogan, an acclaimed British chef known for his farm-to-table approach. The train’s two dining cars, named Malva and Samphire, will serve menus that reflect Britain’s rich culinary diversity. These spaces are adorned with botanical tapestries and woven panels inspired by English gardens and wildflower meadows.
The train’s Observation Car is another highlight, featuring a bar that serves botanically inspired cocktails and a curated selection of artisan gins and craft beers. It’s designed to be the social heart of the journey, offering a lively atmosphere for guests to relax and enjoy each other's company.
For those seeking some tranquility, the train also offers a Wellness Suite. The space, with marble countertops and glass walls reflecting the motion of the sea, provides a range of treatments, along with off-board wellness and fitness excursions.
The Britannic Explorer is made up of renovated Intercity Rail Mark 3 carriages, originally built in the 1970s, and serves as a tribute to Britain’s pioneering role in rail travel. Over 200 years ago, Richard Trevithick developed the first steam locomotive in South Wales, and the country has remained at the forefront of rail innovation ever since.
Beyond the luxurious train itself, the routes offer a chance to explore some of the U.K.’s most beautiful regions. The Cornwall itinerary, for instance, takes passengers along the rugged coastline of Penzance and through the picturesque villages of Lostwithiel. The Lake District, often hailed as England's most breathtaking natural landscape, offers dramatic peaks and serene lakes. Finally, the Welsh route takes travelers from the majestic mountains of Snowdonia National Park to the stunning beaches of Pembrokeshire.
For those seeking a truly unique way to experience Britain’s diverse landscapes, the Britannic Explorer promises an unforgettable journey.
