The Britannic Explorer, the first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales

Posted in Projects on 11 February, 2025

Belmond has proudly unveiled the Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train, the first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales, debuting in July 2025.

Embarking on a new chapter of exceptional slow travel, the pioneering train fuses a celebration of timeless rail heritage with contemporary British gastronomy, culture, and style. An on-board wellness suite provides therapies designed to relax and revive and considered cultural programming invites travellers to discover the essence of Britain, offering an unparalleled perspective and exclusive access to some of the nations’ hidden gems.

The renowned London-based studio, Albion Nord, has created serenely elegant interiors with an unmistakable British charm.

A colour palette inspired by the breathtaking natural world beyond the expanse of picture-windows.

Crafting a window on Britain in motion
Setting a new standard in luxury design, the renowned London-based studio, Albion Nord, has created serenely elegant interiors with an unmistakable British charm, distinct to the train. Combining a colour palette inspired by the breathtaking natural world beyond the expanse of picture-windows, with heritage motifs and playful details, the ensuing environment is both tranquil and vibrant.

The suites have been carefully crafted in Britain and delicately designed to make the experience of the journey as extraordinary as the destination.

Each of the Britannic Explorer’s 18 cabins couple sophistication with comfort.

The three Grand Suites and 15 Suites have been carefully crafted in Britain and delicately designed to make the experience of 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 passengers feel at home in the privacy of their cabin, relaxing in the onboard spa, or indulging in the Bar and restaurant cars.  

The three Grand Suites and 15 Suites have been carefully crafted in Britain.

The Bar has a carefully curated selection of artisan gins and craft beers.

The Bar provides an elegant and convivial atmosphere.

The Bar, inspired by Victorian apothecaries
The Bar provides an elegant and convivial atmosphere where guests can savour a menu of innovative, botanically inspired cocktails, alongside a carefully curated selection of artisan gins and craft beers, highlighting the finest offerings from the UK’s independent distilleries and breweries.

An on-board wellness suite provides therapies designed to relax and revive.

A cultural adventure through cinematic landscapes
Gary Franklin, Vice President of Trains and Cruises, 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 to Eryri’s untamed National Park and the vast expanses of the Lake District like never before.”

Restaurant car.

The dining experience aboard the Britannic Explorer will be designed by award-winning restaurateur Simon Rogan, a visionary leader in Britain’s farm-to-fork movement. 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 the finest local specialties to ensure every meal is a true reflection of Britain’s culinary heritage.

Elevating Belmond’s unrivaled UK portfolio of exceptional experiences
The launch of the Britannic Explorer further elevates Belmond’s award-winning UK portfolio of elegant trains and heritage hotels. The iconic British Pullman, A Belmond Train, England, is celebrated for its elegant Art Deco design and unforgettable day trips, and the Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train, Scotland, offers the nation’s only luxury touring sleeper train through the Highlands.

Belmond’s boutique hotel, The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, London, just a 20-minute transfer from the London Victoria station, will offer a seamless pre- or post-rail stay, as an oasis of calm within the capital. For those traveling through the Cotswolds on the Lake District route, the Britannic Explorer offers an exclusive stop at the Michelin two-star manor house hotel and restaurant, Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel, Oxfordshire.

For more information visit the web page here.