This new luxury sleeper train is the most stylish way to travel across the UK

This luxury train showcases England like you’ve never seen it before.

The Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train, is the new sleeper train redefining luxury travel in the UK. Set to launch in July, it will showcase the UK’s lesser-known, yet breathtaking landscapes such as Cornwall, Wales and the Lake District. This new addition to the Belmond fleet complements the rugged Scottish routes of the Royal Scotsman and the day excursions offered by The British Pullman (including its unique murder mystery trips!)

A cabin onboard the luxurious Britannic Explorer.

Embracing the old-world romance, the Britannic Explorer is reviving a Golden era of the rail travel with its luxurious design, onboard three-Michelin-star chef  (Simon Rogan, one of the UK’s most lauded culinary talents) and decadent wellness spa. On these journeys, passengers don suits and cocktail dresses for meals inspired by the landscapes they are traversing.

Watch the scenery roll past as you dine on a menu curated by a three-Michelin-starred chef, Simon Rogan.

Guests clink glasses in the vintage-style observation car at the rear, taking in scenic views as they travel in supreme comfort. Or simply watch the scenery stream by from the luxurious interior of their cabin. The Britannic Explorer promises a journey that’s as luxurious as it is scenic, reviving the sophisticated spirit of classic train travel for those eager to explore England’s hidden gems. Prices for this once-in-a-lifetime experience start at £6300 per passenger.

Here’s what we know about the itineraries so far:

Where does The Britannic Explorer go?

There are currently three different itineraries, all departing from London.

Cornwall

The Britannic Explorer will travel to the rugged coasts of Cornwall. (Image: Unsplash/Piotr Guzik)

Cornwall on the south-west coast of England is known for its rugged coastline, sandy beaches and picturesque moorlands. Dubbed the ‘English Riviera’, the region is known for it’s charming seaside towns and resorts. The Britannic Explorer‘s three-day itinerary ferries passengers along the Cornish coast in luxury, taking in sea views before stopping in a dazzling array of seaside towns for excursions such as private gallery tours, exclusive boat tours, guided hikes and local wine tastings.

Wales

The picturesque Snowdonia National Park. (Image: Getty/Schroptschop)

At the beginning of 2025, International Traveller dubbed Wales a must-visit destination for the year ahead, owing in part to its largely untapped scenery. The Britannic Explorer takes passengers right into the heart of Wales (or ‘Cymru’ as it’s known to locals), taking in the incomparable beauty of Snowdonia National Park and quaint, creative towns like Machynlleth. The journey is bookended by a sumptuous lunch onboard on the final day, accompanied by the beauty of the Cotswolds as the train heads back to London.

The Lake District

Many of England’s most celebrated literary figures emerged from the Lake District. (Image: Getty/alex_west)

Some of England’s most celebrated writers and poets, such as William Wordsworth, John Ruskin, and Beatrix Potter, hailed from the Lake District in the country’s far north. This region, arguably one of the most idyllic in all of Europe, inspired their romantic sensibilities with its lush green hills, quaint stone cottages and shimmering lakes. The Britannic Explorer offers passengers a chance to immerse themselves in these very landscapes. The journey includes an excursion to the Victorian mansion where Beatrix Potter spent her summers, allowing guests to witness the breathtaking scenery both from the comfort of the train and through a well-curated off-train itinerary.