High-end sleep train Britannic Explorer set to commence operations in England and Wales
The Britannic Explorer, a new ultra-luxury sleeper train, is set to redefine travel in the UK. Operated by Belmond, the LVMH-owned hospitality brand renowned for its iconic trains and hotels, the Britannic Explorer marks the first luxury sleeper service to traverse England and Wales.
Scheduled to commence its maiden voyage on 21st July, the Britannic Explorer offers exclusive three-night journeys connecting London with Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales, with a fourth itinerary planned for 2026.
Key Features and Details
Accommodation
The train boasts 18 cabins, accommodating just 36 guests for an intimate experience. This includes 15 suites and 3 Grand Suites, each featuring double beds, ensuite bathrooms, and personal butler service.
Interior Design
Inspired by the natural British countryside, the interiors incorporate materials like wood, stone, and wool, with earthy tones that reflect the landscapes the train travels through. London-based design studio Albion Nord, along with artists such as Luke Edward Hall and Mel Campion, have contributed bespoke fabrics, wallpapers, and British-themed artwork, creating a distinctively British luxury ambiance.
Onboard Experience
Passengers can enjoy a spa for wellness and relaxation, emphasizing the train's commitment to slow luxury and rejuvenation.
Culinary Excellence
Gourmet meals are prepared by chef Simon Rogan, whose culinary ventures collectively hold eight Michelin stars and two Michelin Green stars. The dining experience reflects the regional flavors and landscapes encountered on the journey.
Routes and Itineraries
The train offers meticulously curated three-night itineraries that showcase the Cornish coastline, the mountains and lakes of the Lake District, and the villages and woodlands of Wales. These journeys depart from London's Victoria Station, providing guests with immersive off-board excursions and special access to intriguing destinations.
Sustainability
Belmond is committed to reducing the carbon footprint of the Britannic Explorer. Initially hauled by Class 66 locomotives provided by GB Railfreight, the service plans to transition to bi-mode Class 99 locomotives in 2027, which run on electricity and renewable fuels, aligning with modern environmental standards.
Price Point
The starting price for these exclusive journeys is around £11,000 per person for a double cabin, including excursions, meals, and wine.
The Britannic Explorer blends classic British design, luxurious comfort, and culinary artistry with the natural beauty of the British countryside, appealing to travellers seeking an elegant and slow travel experience through some of the UK's most stunning regions.
The Britannic Explorer journey offers opportunities to discover the rugged Cornish coastline, Snowdonia's untamed National Park, and the vast expanses of the Lake District. It is an ultra-luxury sleeper train linking London to Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales, promising a truly unique experience for its fortunate passengers.
- The Britannic Explorer, a new luxury sleeper train by Belmond, will explore England and Wales, starting its maiden voyage on 21st July.
- With an intimate experience in mind, the train offers 18 cabins, accommodating only 36 guests, including 15 suites and 3 Grand Suites.
- The train's interior, inspired by the natural British countryside, boasts earthy tones, wood, stone, and wool, enhanced by bespoke fabrics and artwork from London-based design studio Albion Nord.
- Passengers can indulge in gourmet meals prepared by chef Simon Rogan, offering a dining experience that reflects the regional flavors and landscapes encountered on the journey.
- The Britannic Explorer's itineraries, meticulously curated to showcase the Cornish coastline, the Lake District, and Welsh countryside, include off-board excursions and special access to intriguing destinations.
- Aiming for sustainability, Belmond plans to transition the service to bi-mode Class 99 locomotives in 2027, aligning with modern environmental standards, while still offering luxury and elegance at a starting price of around £11,000 per person.
