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Britannic Explorer | Belmond’s Luxury Sleeper Train in Britain

Experience the best of Britain aboard the Britannic Explorer, Belmond’s new luxury sleeper train showcasing Cornwall, Wales and the Lake District. Each journey blends historic landscapes, refined dining and curated off-train experiences into a distinctly British rail adventure.


The Luxury Train Travel Company specialises exclusively in high-end rail journeys worldwide and provides expert planning, confirmed departure dates, suite guidance and tailored extensions for the Britannic Explorer. Explore more luxury rail journeys across the continent on our European rail tours page.

Britannic Explorer Brochure
Routes & Dates & Prices
Cabins & Onboard Experience
Practical FAQs
Contact Us

Life On Board the Britannic Explorer

The Britannic Explorer blends contemporary British design with the romance of classic rail travel. Interiors draw on rich textures, muted tones and crafted details, creating an atmosphere that feels refined yet relaxed rather than theatrical. The train is intimate in scale, ensuring a calm, unhurried ambience throughout the journey.

Dining is overseen by Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan, whose menus celebrate seasonal British produce. Expect thoughtful, ingredient-led cuisine paired with carefully selected wines and artisan cocktails served in the Observation Car. Meals are a highlight of the journey, with a focus on provenance, flavour and presentation.

Each itinerary includes curated off-train experiences designed exclusively for guests of the Britannic Explorer. These may include private estate visits, guided coastal walks, cultural encounters and immersive regional experiences not available to the general public. The balance between time on board and time exploring is carefully judged, allowing guests to experience Britain’s landscapes without feeling rushed.

Wellbeing is also part of the journey. The dedicated Wellness Suite offers space for yoga, treatments and relaxation therapies, while the Observation Car provides panoramic views and a sociable setting for evening drinks as the British countryside rolls by.

With a limited number of suites and a strong emphasis on service, the Britannic Explorer delivers a distinctly modern expression of luxury rail travel — intimate, curated and unmistakably British.

Britannic Explorer Brochure

Just click on the PDF brochure containing all you need to know about the trip including details on dates, a day by day itinerary, cabin information and pricing.

● Please remember that booking as far ahead as you can in advance is essential for these trains ●

Routes, Dates & Prices

The Britannic Explorer 2026 collection showcases the very best of Britain, from the Lake District hills to Cornwall’s coast. Every journey on the Britannic Explorer luxury sleeper train is pure comfort, indulgence and curated off-train experiences unique to this Belmond train.

Note: The published prices for these tours are in GBP Sterling. However, we can quote and accept payment in USD and Euros, Singaporean Dollars, Australian Dollars, Canadian Dollars and more. Contact us for a confirmed quote in your preferred currency.

Travellers considering journeys in Britain may also be interested in the Royal Scotsman, Belmond’s iconic luxury train through the Scottish Highlands.


BEC | 3 Nights | Depart from London Victoria for a thrilling luxury holiday in Cornwall. From the rugged shoreline of Penzance to the bucolic villages of the Lostwithiel area.

Departs London on the following dates in 2026
3rd April 2026 ● 17th April 2026 ● 1st May 2026 ● 26th June 2026 ● 3rd July 2026 ● 17th July 2026 ● 24th July 2026 ● 7th August 2026 ● 21st August 2026 ● 28th August 2026 ● 18th September 2026 ● 2nd October 2026 ● 16th October 2026 ● 23rd October 2026 ● 13th November 2026

Register with us to be the first to know 2027 dates.

2026 Prices. This train uses dynamic pricing so please Contact us for a confirmed quote in your preferred currency.
★ Grand Suite | Shared Occupancy | GBP 15,300 per person
★ Grand Suite | Single Occupancy | GBP 30,600
★ Double / Twin Suite | Shared Occupancy | GBP 6,300
★ Double / Twin Suite | Single Occupancy | GBP 12,600


BELD | 3 Nights | Discover the Lake District’s ethereal charm – its mirror-like lakes, undulating hills and dramatic peaks – widely considered among the finest natural wonders in the UK.

Departs London on the following dates in 2026
15th May 2026 ● 12th June 2026 ● 10th July 2026 ● 31st July 2026 ● 4th September 2026 ● 25th September 2026 ● 9th October 2026 ● 30th October 2026 ● 20th November 2026

Register with us to be the first to know 2027 dates.

2026 Prices. This train uses dynamic pricing so please Contact us for a confirmed quote in your preferred currency.
★ Grand Suite | Shared Occupancy | GBP 15,300 per person
★ Grand Suite | Single Occupancy | GBP 30,600
★ Double / Twin Suite | Shared Occupancy | GBP 6,300
★ Double / Twin Suite | Single Occupancy | GBP 12,600


BEW | 3 Nights | From deepest Snowdonia to the magnificent Pembrokeshire coast, we celebrate the best of Wales on this luxury train journey.

Departs London on the following dates in 2026
30th March 2026 ● 13th April 2026 ● 4th May 2026 ● 29th June 2026 ● 20th July 2026 ● 3rd August 2026 ● 24th August 2026 ● 14th September 2026 ● 28th September 2026 ● 19th October 2026 ● 9th November 2026

Register with us to be the first to know 2027 dates.

2026 Prices. This train uses dynamic pricing so please Contact us for a confirmed quote in your preferred currency.
★ Grand Suite | Shared Occupancy | GBP 15,300 per person
★ Grand Suite | Single Occupancy | GBP 30,600
★ Double / Twin Suite | Shared Occupancy | GBP 6,300
★ Double / Twin Suite | Single Occupancy | GBP 12,600


  • We are really happy we have got on the inaugural trip in 2026!
    Dan and Linda O.
    Britannic Explorer
  • Thanks for all your help in getting us the last cabin on The Grand Silk Road trip.
    Emma and Joel Smith
    Britannic Explorer
  • The service to date from The Luxury Train Travel Company gives us great confidence!
    Don and Margarita Y.
    Britannic Explorer

Cabins & Suites

Accommodation aboard the Britannic Explorer is designed to feel intimate, calm and distinctly British. Each suite combines contemporary comfort with thoughtful detailing, ensuring privacy and quiet relaxation after a day of exploration. With a limited number of cabins on board, the atmosphere remains personal and unhurried throughout the journey.

All suites include air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, plush bedding and attentive steward service. During the day, cabins function as elegant sitting spaces before being transformed into restful sleeping quarters each evening.

Grand Suites

At approximately 120 square feet, the Grand Suites offer the most spacious accommodation on board. They feature a fixed double bed, generous lounge area and a marble-finished en-suite bathroom. Guests in Grand Suites benefit from additional privacy, enhanced space to relax and an elevated service experience, including priority dining and a complimentary spa treatment in the Wellness Suite.

Grand Suites are ideal for travellers celebrating a special occasion or those who simply prefer more room to unwind during a three-night journey.

Double Suites

The Double Suites measure approximately 84 square feet and are configured with a double bed. Designed with efficiency and comfort in mind, they offer refined interiors, a compact en-suite bathroom and clever storage solutions. During the day, the suite serves as a comfortable sitting area before being prepared for evening rest.

Double Suites are particularly well suited to couples seeking a luxurious yet proportionate private space.

Twin Suites

Twin Suites are similar in size to the Double Suites at approximately 84 square feet but are configured with separate beds. They provide the same level of comfort, design detail and en-suite facilities, making them ideal for friends travelling together or guests who prefer individual sleeping arrangements.

Wellness Suite & Observation Car

In addition to private cabins, the Britannic Explorer features a dedicated Wellness Suite offering yoga sessions, spa treatments and relaxation therapies designed to complement the journey. The Observation Car provides panoramic countryside views, a convivial bar and a sociable setting for evening drinks and conversation.

Suite Comparison at a Glance

FeatureGrand SuiteDouble SuiteTwin Suite
Approximate Size120 sq ft84 sq ft84 sq ft
Bed ConfigurationFixed double bedDouble bedTwin beds
En-suite BathroomYes (marble finish)YesYes
Private Lounge SpaceYesCompact seatingCompact seating
Butler / Steward ServiceIncludedIncludedIncluded
Spa Treatment IncludedYesNoNo
Ideal ForSpecial occasions, maximum comfortCouplesFriends or separate sleepers
Britannic Explorer Luxury Rail carriage layout 1
Britannic Explorer Luxury Rail carriage layout 2
Britannic Explorer Luxury Rail Carriage Layout

Photos and illustrations are for guidance only and may differ to your actual cabin.


Britannic Explorer Luxury train Gallery

A selection of photos below illustrating the Britannic Explorer luxury train by Belmond.

Belmond Britannic Explorer FAQs

Most Britannic Explorer itineraries operate as three-night journeys departing from London Victoria. The train travels through regions such as Cornwall, the Lake District or Wales before returning to London. Each itinerary balances time on board with curated off-train excursions, creating a well-paced experience rather than continuous rail travel.

The fare includes private suite accommodation, all meals on board, selected wines and beverages, steward service, and the scheduled off-train excursions specific to each itinerary. Dining is overseen by Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan, and many experiences are exclusive to train guests. International travel, pre- and post-stay hotels, and certain premium beverages are not included unless arranged separately.

All Britannic Explorer journeys depart from and return to London Victoria Station. The train operates circular itineraries exploring different regions of Britain before returning to London at the end of the journey.

There are three suite categories: Grand Suites, Double Suites and Twin Suites. Grand Suites offer the most space and include additional privileges such as a spa treatment. Double and Twin Suites are more compact but maintain the same standard of design, service and en-suite facilities.

For travellers seeking a curated luxury experience within Britain, the Britannic Explorer offers a rare combination of refined accommodation, Michelin-level dining and privileged regional access. It is particularly suited to guests who value comfort, privacy and thoughtfully designed excursions rather than simply scenic rail mileage.

Both trains are operated by Belmond, but they offer distinct experiences. The Britannic Explorer focuses on England and Wales with a contemporary British design aesthetic, while the Royal Scotsman explores the Scottish Highlands with a more classic heritage atmosphere. The choice depends on whether you prefer modern elegance or traditional Highland romance.

The experience is largely all-inclusive, covering accommodation, meals, selected drinks and scheduled excursions. Additional spa treatments, premium beverages and personal purchases are charged separately. The intention is to create a seamless onboard experience without constant additional costs.

During the day, smart-casual attire is appropriate. In the evenings, guests typically dress more formally for dinner, with jackets recommended for gentlemen. The atmosphere is elegant but not overly rigid, reflecting modern British luxury.

The Britannic Explorer is intentionally intimate, with a limited number of suites to ensure a calm and personalised atmosphere. This small guest capacity enhances both service levels and the exclusivity of off-train experiences.

Excursions are designed to be engaging rather than physically demanding. Activities may include guided walks, estate visits and cultural experiences. Guests with specific mobility considerations are encouraged to discuss requirements in advance so appropriate guidance can be provided.

Departures operate throughout the warmer months, typically from spring to autumn. Spring and early summer offer fresh landscapes and longer daylight hours, while autumn departures showcase rich seasonal colours. Each region visited has its own seasonal character.

As a new and high-profile luxury train, availability can become limited quickly, particularly for Grand Suites and inaugural departures. We recommend booking several months in advance to secure preferred dates and suite categories.

Yes. Many guests combine the Britannic Explorer with the Royal Scotsman or with European luxury trains for a broader rail itinerary. We are pleased to advise on seamless connections and extensions.

Why Book with The Luxury Train Travel Company

The Luxury Train Travel Company specialises exclusively in high-end rail journeys worldwide. Our team provides expert guidance, confirmed departure dates, suite advice and tailored pre- and post-train extensions for the Britannic Explorer.

● Specialist luxury train expertise
● Access to confirmed departure dates and suite availability
● Priority cabin holds while you decide
● Tailor-made hotel, touring and transfer extensions
● Personal service from enquiry to departure

View all confirmed departures on our Luxury Train Calendar.

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Contact Us About These Train Tours

We look forward to hearing from you and are happy to answer any questions you have – just email or call us or use the form below.

enquiry@theluxurytraintravelcompany.com

Tel: +44 (0)20 8191 0620