The Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train

The Britannic Explorer is England and Wales' first luxury sleeper train, launched by Belmond in 2025. Departing from London Victoria, the train offers three-night journeys across three distinct routes: Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales. Designed by London studio Albion Nord, the train blends British heritage with contemporary design, celebrating the UK's 200-year railway legacy. Guests can embrace the art of slow travel with wild swimming in the Lakes, exploring Snowdonia's peaks, or discovering Cornish coastal villages.

Accommodation

The train features 18 cabins across five sleeping cars: 15 Suites and three Grand Suites. Suites offer double or twin bed configurations that transform from daytime lounges with banquette seating into comfortable sleeping quarters at night. Each includes an ensuite bathroom with shower, marble vanity, wardrobes, and 24-hour steward service. The three Grand Suites – Juniper, Valerian, and Elder – feature fixed double beds, separate living areas with dining tables and sofas, marble-clad ensuite bathrooms, and personal butler service.

Food & Drink

Dining aboard the Britannic Explorer is curated by three-Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan, alongside Executive Head Chef Sven-Hanson Britt. Menus celebrate seasonal, locally sourced British produce with an emphasis on farm-to-fork dining. Each route features bespoke breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner menus highlighting regional specialities. The Observation Car houses a Victorian apothecary-inspired bar serving botanically infused cocktails, artisan gins, and craft beers from independent UK distilleries and breweries.

Experiences

Each route offers curated off-train excursions. The Cornwall journey includes visits to Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens and exploration of Penzance and Lostwithiel. The Lake District route features wild swimming, paddleboarding, scenic hikes, and a gala dinner at Raymond Blanc's two-Michelin-starred Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons in the Cotswolds. The Wales itinerary includes valley hikes, visits to historic castles and charming villages, and exploration of Snowdonia National Park and the Pembrokeshire coast. The train also features Britain's first onboard Wellness Suite in partnership with Wildsmith, offering massages and facials designed to promote relaxation and restoration.

Children

The Britannic Explorer welcomes families, with twin and double suites available. While there is no dedicated children's programme, excursions provide opportunities for family adventures across Britain's countryside and coast.

Best Time to Travel

The train operates year-round, with each season offering a distinct experience. Spring and summer bring lush landscapes and longer days for outdoor excursions, while autumn showcases dramatic countryside colours. Winter journeys offer cosy comfort aboard the train with crisp coastal and mountain views.

How to Get There

All journeys depart from and return to London Victoria Station. Guests can extend their stay with pre- or post-journey accommodation at The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, London, located approximately 20 minutes from the station. Grand Suite guests receive complimentary private transfers.