If you’ve ever thought of boarding a luxury sleeper train in England, then Belmond’s Britannic Explorer is for you. The Britannic Explorer is an absolute icon of luxury rail travel and has quickly become the jewel in the crown of English train travel, especially if you want the best experiences and journeys around England.
Now, as you might already know, we love luxury trains, especially after riding the Belmond British Pullman train in England and the Eastern & Oriental Express train through Malaysia (which, spoiler alert, was amazing!).
We had the most amazing time booking the Britannic Explorer, and we wanted to share what it’s like onboard the luxury sleeper train, what you can expect from the gorgeous suites and the excursions which you’ll be loving! Plus, we’re going to detail a fair few practical tips to help you get the most out of your journey onboard the train. Anyway, take a look below at our full review and tips for travelling on the Britannic Explorer luxury sleeper train.
Britannic Explorer luxury sleeper train: Key Facts
Being one of England’s newest and most prestigious luxury sleeper trains, the Britannic Explorer is, of course, an absolute delight to experience. Departing from London Victoria Train Station, it’s a train that can take you all around England and Wales, all depending on the route you choose to book.
Now, we chose to book the Lake District route to experience the beauty, charm and absolute deliciousness that is northern cuisine. That being said, you can also choose routes in Wales, which really focus on the great outdoors. Alternatively, if you’re looking for an art focus, you can head on trips that visit Cornwall. Oh, and don’t forget there may be some new routes coming soon. We’ve heard whispers of Northumberland (castle country, if you didn’t know) and some others to really showcase the length and breadth of beauty in England and Wales.
Now, being a luxury sleeper train, the Britannic Explorer has suites across the train carriages that are so stunning to stay in. Each is ensuite, and all have the ability to change from day rooms (where the sumptuous bed get put away) to palaces of slumber in the evenings. All sorted out whilst you eat in one of the two dining carriages called Malva and Samphire.
Whilst onboard the Britannic Explorer luxury sleeper train, everything is taken care of, and nothing is ever left to chance. Even the smallest details are organised, planned and meticulously arranged to make sure every detail is perfect. Food, drinks and excursions are all included in the price, which means you can fully relax onboard. The only additional extras would be to take advantage of the sumptuous spa onboard, which, naturally, comes at an extra charge.
Read more: What it’s like on the Eastern & Oriental Express (a review)
Suites onboard the Britannic Explorer Sleeper train
So, let’s talk about suites onboard the Britannic Explorer. Firstly, they are beautiful, well-appointed, all with en suite facilities including a shower, toilet and sink and enough room for two people to travel. Like all luxury sleeper trains, don’t expect huge swaths of space in one of the 18 sleeper cabins onboard. After all, your suites are confined by the rails the train glides upon. They are cosy, so pretty and oh so British! There’s plenty of room to sleep, relax in the day when it turns into your day suite, and just chill if you fancy an afternoon nap. We loved them, even if we rarely spent much time in them beyond sleeping within the suite.
You see, you’ll be spending so much time within the dining and observation carriages, along with all the excursions you’ll be doing each day!
Now, I did wonder if I’d be able to sleep onboard. It was actually really easy, and I slept like a dream! You see, each night, the Britannic Explorer would park up in different stables around the country to rest. This meant the train was quiet, still and oh-so comfortable for a good night’s sleep. Even with the train moving, the speeds are relatively low. This means there are no massive amounts of rocking or sharp bends that could potentially disrupt your sleep.
This is all made possible with Belmond’s Britannic Explorer luxury train taking advantage of slower, heritage and private train lines. These go much slower than the National Rail high-speed train lines which you might be used to all across the country.
Read more: Best things to do in the Lake District
Dining and drinking onboard the Britannic Explorer train
First off, you’re never going to be hungry whilst onboard the Britannic Explorer. You will be wined and dined with some of the best local dishes, ingredients and wines that England and Wales have to offer. After all, all the dining options are lovingly curated by Simon Rogan MBE and are too good to miss out on!
Each day, whilst travelling around the country, your menu will reflect the local region and timings (which you’ll soon realise once onboard. For instance, one of our days onboard the Britannic Explorer was a Sunday (whilst whisking through the countryside of Yorkshire). This meant one thing: a proper Sunday roast dinner – all topped off with the fluffiest Yorkshire Pudding (which was so good).
Now, not every meal will be onboard the Britannic Explorer luxury sleeper train. Some meals will take place whilst on excursions, and these are no less delicious! I don’t actually think I’ve eaten as well in my life. The food was amazing, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find any faults with the cuisine and dishes offered. Naturally, Belmond’s Britannic Explorer also cater to preferences and allergies – which means it’s great for all travellers.
Read more: Best things to do in the Lake District
Excursions whilst onboard the Britannic Explorer train
As I mentioned, we took the Britannic Explorer luxury sleeper train to the Lake District. Though, as I mentioned, it’s not the only route. Our excursions really focused on the amazing foodie experiences and heritage of the Lake District, which we loved. Regardless of what route you choose to take, you’ll be offered the opportunity to join the included excursions each day whilst you travel around England or Wales. It’s amazing, and such a great way to experience little slices of our country. Truly experiencing the best of British!
Now, after booking, you’ll be contacted by the on-site train manager for Belmond’s Britannic Explorer luxury sleeper train. This was totally helpful for us, and they really helped us understand what we need to bring, any preparations we need to make (which was minimal, by the way) and what excursions we’d like to request for certain days. It was all so seamless, and all planned in advance. This meant we didn’t have to lift a finger once we arrived onboard.
Read more: What it’s like on the Eastern & Oriental Express (a review)
Our journey through the Lake District onboard Belmond’s Britannic Explorer train
Our journey onboard the Britannic Explorer luxury train was through the Lake District, departing from London Victoria Station. It was a three-night, four-day trip to some of Northern England’s most stunning places. With food at its heart, this journey was as much about what was on our plates as the stunning scenery beyond the windows. We loved every second of it.
Along the way, we undertook so many off-board excursions, including a stunning visit to the expansive and unspoilt Graythwaite Estate.
We spent a good few hours here, and loved exploring the estate and mansion that sits proudly within the Lake District countryside. Afterwards, you’ll get to explore more of England’s beauty via boat rides and walks and a visit to Simon Rogan’s farm, which is out-of-this-world delicious!
Oh, and don’t forget the final gala dinner, which happens on the last night onboard the Britannic Explorer. After alighting the train, you’ll make your way over to the three-Michelin-starred restaurant The Waterside Inn. It’s as impressive as it sounds, and you’ll also get to spend some time in the kitchen with the team itself.
Read more: Best things to do in the Lake District
What to know before you jump onboard the train
The great thing about the Britannic Explorer is that the train and team are really relaxed, friendly and totally accommodating. Nothing feels too stuffy or over the top, and that includes attire. In the daytime, it’s totally relaxed and in the fevning a smart-cuasula attire is best, with a jacket for men. Oh, and don’t forget that the last night is the time to really glam up! Everyone gets dressed up for the final night party.
Also, as with all British holidays, make sure to bring a coat, layers and some comfy walking shoes. There’s nothing worse than getting caught in a shower whilst exploring the idyllic English countryside.
As mentioned before, space is limited onboard the train. One suitcase and a small carry-on is best. Though the Belmond team does help you store additional luggage if you’re travelling internationally.
Oh, and don’t forget to have fun. Everyone on board is friendly, jovial, and that includes the incredible Belmond team! You will have the best time onboard the Britannic Explorer.
Finally, don’t forget: there is no single supplement fee, which is great if you’re travelling solo.
Read more: Best things to do in the Lake District
Is the Britannic Explorer luxury sleeper train worth it?
In one easy word: Yes! You will have the best time experiencing the Britannic Explorer luxury sleeper train. It’s beyond amazing, and we really can’t wait to experience it again soon!
Read more: What it’s like on the Eastern & Oriental Express (a review)
What It’s Like To Travel On The Eastern & Oriental Express (Everything You Need To Know)