High-end train adventurers, take note: London now links with Wales aboard Belmond's latest sleeping train luxe.
The Britannic Explorer, England and Wales's first luxury sleeper train, is set to embark on its maiden voyage on July 21, 2025. Operated by Belmond, this new addition to the UK's rail network offers an unparalleled travel experience, with three-night itineraries departing from London Victoria Station and exploring three distinct regions: Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales.
Each route promises a celebration of the British tradition of slow travel, offering on-board fine dining, spa treatments, and cultural excursions at the destinations. The train's 18 sleeper cabin suites, beautifully designed to reflect classic British craftsmanship and inspired by the landscapes they traverse, provide a comfortable and luxurious home away from home.
The London to Cornwall route, for instance, offers optional guided excursions tailored to the location, such as coastal sailing and yoga by the sea. The journey to the Lake District includes wild swimming opportunities, while visits to lavender farms and wood-fired saunas are on the agenda for the Wales route.
The Britannic Explorer's dining experience is as exceptional as its accommodation. Gourmet meals are crafted by multi-Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan, focusing on British gastronomy with locally sourced and seasonal ingredients.
The price for this luxurious journey starts from £11,000 per person for a three-night journey in a double cabin. This price includes accommodation, all meals and alcoholic beverages onboard, and the off-train excursions. Tickets for the first two routes (Cornwall and Lake District) are currently available, with the third route through the Lake District scheduled to be announced.
The Britannic Explorer aims to reduce its carbon footprint and plans to use hybrid locomotives by 2027. With a maximum of 36 guests onboard, the train offers an intimate travel experience that promises to be unforgettable.
For those seeking a wellness retreat, the Britannic Explorer features a wellness suite in partnership with Wildsmith Skin. Prices for a twin suite start at £6,300 ($8,600) per person, while a grand suite costs £15,300 ($20,900) per person.
The design of the Britannic Explorer was spearheaded by London-based studio Albion Nord and visual artist Luke Edward Hall. Images of the train are available online, offering a glimpse into the elegance and luxury that awaits passengers.
As the Britannic Explorer embarks on its inaugural journey to Wales, it promises to redefine luxury travel in Britain, offering a unique and immersive way to explore some of the country's most beautiful regions.
[1] Britannic Explorer: Luxury Sleeper Train to Launch in 2025, Travel + Leisure, [https://www.travelandleisure.com/news/britannic-explorer-luxury-sleeper-train-2025] [2] Belmond's Britannia Train to Debut in 2025, Robb Report, [https://www.robbreport.com/travel/hotels/belmond-britannia-train-debut-2025-12347824/] [3] The Britannic Explorer: A New Luxury Sleeper Train for Britain, Condé Nast Traveler, [https://www.cntraveler.com/travel/europe/uk/england/london/news/a40104548/britannic-explorer-luxury-sleeper-train-uk-2025/] [4] Belmond Britannia Train: Prices, Routes and Cabins, The Telegraph, [https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/uk/articles/belmond-britannia-train-prices-routes-and-cabins/] [5] Belmond Britannia Train: A New Luxury Sleeper Service for Britain, The Independent, [https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/belmond-britannia-train-luxury-sleeper-service-uk-b1894866.html]
- For individuals who appreciate fine dining and personal-finance planning, alluring home-and-garden excursions, and a dash of lifestyle luxury, the Britannic Explorer's £11,000 per person three-night journey might be an intriguing opportunity for a unique travel experience.
- As one delves deeper into the Britannic Explorer's offerings, personal-finance-conscious explorers might also be enticed by the wellness suite partnership with Wildsmith Skin, offering twin suites starting from £6,300 ($8,600) per person. This luxurious retreat combines finance management with a touch of elegance, making it an attractive choice for discerning travellers seeking both financial peace of mind and a distinctive journey.
