If you’re looking for the epitome of luxury train travel in England and Wales then this might be it. Chugging into the country this summer, is the Britannic Explorer, a new luxury sleeper train from the Belmond group, which is already known for the British Pullman or the Royal Scotsman train routes, allowing travellers to be whisked away on a one-of-a-kind journey through scenic countryside.
The Britannic Explorer departs from London, with a choice of three routes passing through the spectacular natural landscapes of Cornwall, Wales and North West locations like The Lake District. And it’s not just the views that travellers can look forward to as the Belmond sleeper train features opulent accommodations, exquisite cuisine, and immersive excursions across the UK.
Debuting in July 2025, the Britannic Explorer offers three-night itineraries through the Lake District, or six-night combined journeys. The Belmond sleeper train includes 18 cabins, each meticulously designed with notes to Victorian aesthetics, Art Deco, and contemporary luxury. Accommodations include three Grand Suites that come with a personal butler service (oo la, la), a beautifully designed bedroom, and drool-worthy dining options. The other 15 cabins are equally awe-inspiring, blending comfort with classic charm.
The Belmond sleeper train experience via The Lake District
Since you’ll be heading to the rolling hills of the Lake District, you might as well indulge in a marvellous menu from a Michelin-starred chef with restaurants in the Lake District. The highly-regarded Simon Rogan, who’s known for championing farm-to-table cuisine, will be serving up some culinary delights inspired by the region such as a Cumbrian Afternoon Tea with a slice of Kendal mint cake or some Grasmere gingerbread.
As the day unfolds, you can unwind with a restorative treatment in the Wellness Suite, or perhaps enjoy a cocktail or two from the bar carriage. Evenings can be spent in the Observation Car, sipping botanical cocktails or craft beers as the British countryside rolls by.
On the next day, you’ll wake up in your tranquil suite to scenic views of the Forest of Bowland and the enchanting Yorkshire Dales National Park rushing past your window. As you travel along Cumbria’s southern coast, you can gaze at the stunning panorama of the Irish Sea shimmering in the distance.
By early afternoon, you’ll arrive in Workington where travellers can take a chauffeured journey to the Lingholm Estate, a Grade II listed Victorian mansion where the beloved Beatrix Potter once spent her summers. The private quarters will also be open solely to guests of the Britannic Explorer and you can also choose from three adventures – a guided open-water swimming, meeting local alpacas, or a scenic hike around the breathtaking nearby fells.
As you travel on board Britannic Explorer sleeper train with Belmond you will continue to be treated to the finest British cuisine, stay overnight in the charming rural town of Appleby, then glide over the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct on the famed Settle & Carlisle line. The journey will then pass the Peak District, followed by Oxfordshire where you can indulge in a gala dinner at Raymond Blanc’s Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, before passing the Cotswolds and the Chilterns on route back to London.
How to book the Britannic Explorer
Luxury accommodation aboard the Britannic Explorer starts from £11,000 based on a double cabin to include a 3-night itinerary, excursions, meals, wine and alcoholic beverages on board. The first Lake District journey departs on July 11, 2025. For more details, head to Belmond’s official website here.