Lake District: Luxury sleeper train heading to the Lakes

Belmond has unveiled the Britannic Explorer, the first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales, debuting in July 2025.

The Bermuda-based company owns some of the world's most famous trains including the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, the Royal Scotsman and the Eastern and Oriental Express.

From July 2025, the Britannic Explorer will depart from London, offering three-night journeys with a choice of three evocative routes through the spectacular natural landscapes of The Lake District, Cornwall and Wales.

The dining car (Image: Belmond) By day, optional off-train guided excursions will showcase the rich cultural tapestry, beauty, and history of each destination, and by night, passengers can unwind and mingle in the train’s botanically inspired bar, located in the observation car, set to be the vibrant social heart of the Britannic Explorer.

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.

Embarking on a new chapter of exceptional slow travel, the pioneering train fuses a celebration of timeless rail heritage with contemporary British gastronomy, culture, and style.

Fine dining experiences will be designed by renowned Chef Simon Rogan, celebrated for his innovative approach and the exceptional quality across his restaurants, which collectively hold eight Michelin stars and two Michelin Green stars worldwide.

Chef Simon Rogan (Image: Will Heap Photography) Speaking of the collaboration, Simon Rogan shared: "For me, true luxury lies in humble ingredients, grown with care, respect for their surroundings, and harvested at their peak. Across all my restaurants, my dishes are defined by local, often home-grown produce, and by partnering with British growers and suppliers who share our deep connection to the land and its natural elements. This philosophy allows our food to resonate with the environment from which it originates. I am very excited to bring this approach to the launch of the Britannic Explorer, where each plate will reflect Britain’s diverse landscapes. I hope every passenger not only enjoys the flavours but also feels a connection between the dishes and the journey, making their time on board truly memorable."

Guests can experience world-class galleries, breathtaking national parks, and historically rich cities in a uniquely immersive way, ,with wild swimming trips in the stunning landscapes of the Lake District noted as one of the trip's highlights.

Gary Franklin, vice president of trains and cruises, Belmond commented: "I am incredibly proud to launch this revolutionary new train, which further enhances Belmond’s global portfolio of market-leading luxury rail experiences. The Britannic Explorer offers something truly unique; an opportunity to discover the rugged Cornish coastline to Snowdonia’s untamed National Park and the vast expanses of the Lake District like never before. 

"We are especially delighted to welcome the esteemed Chef Simon Rogan to helm the culinary direction. His vision brings a gastronomic journey that complements the train’s spirit of adventure, celebrating British produce and highlighting the finest local specialties along the route."

Luxury accommodation aboard the Britannic Explorer starts from £11,000 based on a double cabin to include a three-night itinerary, excursions, meals, wine and alcoholic beverages on board. For more information or to book, visit the web page here.