Keep your eyes peeled this July for the new Britannic Explorer passing through Oxfordshire. The sumptuous new sleeper train offers three-night itineraries through some of Britain’s most scenic regions, including Cornwall, the Lake District, and the valleys of Wales.
The maiden voyage tales place on the 21st July to Wales, followed by Cornwall on 25th July. Designed and built in Britain, the Britannic Explorer promises to transform not just the journey, but the entire notion of British train travel. From bespoke interiors to curated cultural excursions, this is slow travel for the modern age.
The Valerian Grand Suite Living Room & BedroomBritish Craft, Inside and Out
Rooted in a vision to “bring the outside in,” the train’s interiors fuse natural textures like stone, wood and wool with contemporary comfort and artistry. Each of the 18 cabins, including three Grand Suites, was handcrafted in Britain and inspired by the wild coastlines and rolling hills passengers will see en route.
Design highlights include wallpapers by Luke Edward Hall, armchairs upholstered in reinterpreted Rubelli fabrics, geometric panels by Olly Fathers, and calming landscape art by Sarah Woods. From shell mirrors to hand-dyed textiles, every element is the work of a celebrated British maker.
“We wanted the interiors to feel refined yet bold, timeless yet unexpected — much like Britain itself,”
Camilla Clarke of Albion Nord, the studio behind the design.
Gourmet Dining on the Rails
Food is central to the experience. Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan leads the culinary direction, with Executive Chef Sven-Hanson Britt crafting menus that celebrate seasonal British ingredients. Dishes are served across two glamorous dining cars, Malva and Samphire, accompanied by fine wines and botanical cocktails in the Observation Car bar.
For travellers on the Lake District route, there’s an added treat: a gala dinner at Raymond Blanc’s two-Michelin-starred Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxfordshire, a landmark of British sustainable cuisine.
Travel with Purpose and Wellness
Sustainability and wellbeing are key themes throughout. The train is powered partly by eco-conscious systems, and a dedicated onboard Wellness Suite, created in partnership with Wildsmith, offers reiki, sound healing, and spa therapies. Meanwhile, excursions include wild swimming in Cumbria, lavender farms in Wales, and coastal yoga in Cornwall.
“The Britannic Explorer marks a pivotal moment in British rail innovation,” says General Manager Hendrik Huebner. “It embodies the true spirit of adventure, rooted in heritage and driven by contemporary luxury.”
Excursions by Region
Each itinerary features curated off-board experiences:
- Cornwall: Coastal sailing, sea yoga
- Lake District: Wild swimming, rowing, paddleboarding
- Wales: Valley hikes, lavender farms, wood-fired saunas, and local art workshops
From Oxfordshire to Adventure
Departing from London Victoria, the train weaves through southern England and frequently crosses Oxfordshire. Travellers beginning their journey in the Cotswolds may opt to stay at Le Manoir or extend their trip at The Cadogan Hotel, another Belmond property in Chelsea.
While pricing starts at £11,000 per couple for the full itinerary, the experience is as much a cultural immersion as a luxury escape. From its curated off-board activities to its artisan interiors, the Britannic Explorer is a rolling celebration of British heritage, design, and hospitality.
Visit belmond.com/britannicexplorer for details and booking information.
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