Inside bougie new train coming to England and Wales

Riding the rails in the UK is about to become a whole lot bougier. It is almost hard to believe this is a train.

Riding the rails in the UK is about to become a whole lot bougier.

Back in 1982, the Belmond group took over the operations of the world’s most iconic train – the Venice Simplon Orient Express. And pretty much ever since, Belmond – has become a byword for utter luxury on the rails.

Now comes news that its poised to launch the Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train, which will journey through England and Wales from July 2025. And gosh it looks spectacular, Escape reports.

Belmond Trains launches the bougie Britannic Explorer for England and Wales rail journeys.

One of the key attractions – aside from the unquestionably refined aesthetics – is the food. Helming the dining is chef Simon Rogan. Who has eight Michelin stars and two Michelin Green stars.

“For me, true luxury lies in humble ingredients, grown with care, respect for their surroundings, and harvested at their peak,” says Rogan.

“Across all my restaurants, my dishes are defined by local, often homegrown produce, and by partnering with British growers and suppliers who share our deep connection to the land and its natural elements. I am very excited to bring this approach to the launch of the Britannic Explorer, where each plate will reflect Britain’s diverse landscapes.”

Pull up a seat at the Belmond bar.

In terms of itinerary, the initial offering spans three nights and three routes with Cornwall, the Lake District and Wales featuring – along with off-train guided excursions in each.

This might take the form of a private tour and dinner at the renowned Hauser & Wirth Somerset and on-site restaurant Da Costa, guided hikes through picturesque Wales, wild swimming in the stunning landscapes of the Lake district and a visit to Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens in Cornwall.

Comfy and cosy on board.

For those travelling through the Cotswolds on the Lake District route, the Britannic Explorer offers an exclusive stop at the Michelin two-star manor house hotel and restaurant, Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel, Oxfordshire.

The train will include 18 cabins – split into 15 suites and three Grand Suites.

The cabins by day.

The routes are scheduled to allow travellers to combine two regional journeys into one trip: The Cornwall and Lake District routes run from Friday to Monday, while the Wales route runs from Monday to Thursday.

Accommodation aboard the Britannic Explorer starts from approximately $21,000 based on a double cabin to include a 3-night itinerary, excursions, meals, wine and alcoholic beverages on board.

This article originally appeared on Escape and was reproduced with permission