What the inside of the luxurious new sleeper trains will look like when it launches next year. (Image: Belmond)
A swanky sleeper train has been unveiled that will take travellers from London to stunning natural landscapes, including and .
The Britannic Explorer is set to launch next year, boasting elegant private cabins, a spa, and the kind of fine dining you’d expect at a high-end .
Belmond, the firm behind it, was responsible for the popular Royal Scotsman, an overnight sleeper that winds through the stunning scenery of the Highlands.
The hospitality operator says its new project will be the first luxury sleeper of its kind in and .
Set to make to debut in July, The Britannic Explorer will set off from , with three-night journeys to , The Lake District, and and some sumptuous sights along the way.
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The Britannic Explorer is staking a claim as the first luxury sleep train in England and Wales. (Image: Belmond)
The new services are said to have been dreamed up in the spirit of traditional British touring, which has a greater emphasis on enjoying the slow journey itself as much as the destination.
Passengers can also enjoy optional guided excursions, including a private tour and dinner at the Somerset’s Hauser & Wirth gallery and on-site Italian restaurant Da Costa.
There are also hikes through Wales on offer, wild swimming in the Lake District and an opportunity to look around Cornwall’s famous Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens.
Belmond says the 18 cabins on board, three of which are even more plush Grand Suites, exude sophistication without sacrificing the comfort of passengers.
It’s even got a menu by Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan, meaning guests can enjoy the best of British gastronomy while feasting their eyes on the scenic spleandour passing by.
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An illustration of one of the private cabins (Image: Belmond)
Passengers will be served bespoke afternoon tea, lunch and dinner menus, the firm says (Image: Belmond)
In line with Rogan’s darm-to-fork philosophy, the fine dining menu will include locally sourced ingredients with bespoke menus for each of the three routes making each trip unique.
Speaking about the collaboration, he said: “I am very excited to bring this approach to the launch of the Britannic Explorer, where each plate will reflect Britain’s diverse landscapes.
“I hope every passenger not only enjoys the flavours but also feels a connection between the dishes and the journey, making their time on board truly memorable.”
Gary Franklin, Belmond’s vice president of Trains and Cruises, said: “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 Snowdonia’s untamed National Park and the vast expanses of the Lake District like never before.”