Royal treatment of railways comes to England and Wales.
This week Belmond announced plans for a Belmond train, the Britannic Explorer. When it debuts in July next year, Wales will become England’s first luxury sleeper train. The Britannic Explorer departs from London Victoria Station for a three-night voyage to Cornwall, the Lake District and Wales. The Cornwall and Lake District route will run from Friday to Monday and the Wales route will run from Monday to Thursday, giving passengers the luxury of combining two journeys into one.
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“We are extremely proud of this innovative new train service, which further strengthens Belmond’s global portfolio of market-leading luxury rail experiences,” Gary Franklin, Belmond’s vice president of rail and cruise, said in a statement. said. “The Britannic Explorer offers something truly unique – the opportunity to discover from the rugged coastline of Cornwall to the unspoilt national parks of Snowdonia and the vastness of the Lake District like never before.”
Britannic Explorer has 18 cabins, including three grand suites and 15 suites, all of which pay homage to Britain’s natural beauty. Guests can enjoy off-train guided tours during the day, including a private tour and dinner at the renowned Hauser & Wirth Somerset Arts Center, guided hikes in Wales and swimming in the Lake District.
Britannic Explorer’s fine dining experience will be overseen by Chef Simon Logan, whose restaurant has a total of eight Michelin stars. The onboard wellness suite offers a variety of spa therapies and treatments, while the bar and restaurant car keep guests well-nourished and hydrated. The Victorian apothecary-style barker will serve botanical-inspired cocktails, as well as artisan gins and craft beers from independent British distilleries and breweries.
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“For me, true luxury lies in humble ingredients grown with care, respectful of the environment, and harvested at the best of times,” Logan said in a statement. “In all my restaurants, my food is defined by using local, often home-grown ingredients and partnering with British producers and suppliers who share a deep connection with the land and its natural elements. This philosophy allows our cuisine to resonate with the environment, which is where it comes from. ”
“We’re excited to bring this approach to the launch of Britannic Explorer. Each plate reflects Britain’s diverse landscapes, ensuring every passenger not only enjoys the taste, but also the connection between food and travel. I hope you can feel it and make the most of your time.” It was truly memorable on board. ”
The train may be England’s first overnight sleeper train, but Belmond already operates the Royal Scotsman in Scotland. In addition, the company operates the British Pullman Day Train, a luxury dining-on-rail adventure through the British countryside.
Prices on the Britannic Explorer start from 11,000 British pounds ($13,959) for a double cabin, which includes a three-night itinerary, excursions, and onboard meals, wine, and alcoholic beverages.
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