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.
From the serene shores of Derwentwater to invigorating hikes in the heart of Wales, we celebrate the finest treasures of Britain on this remarkable voyage. Feel the literary inspiration of Yorkshire, indulge in culinary delights in the Cotswolds, and immerse yourself in the stunning vistas that unfold just outside your private cabin window.
Meals:
Daily table d'hôte meals, including breakfasts, brunches, lunches, afternoon teas and dinners, alongside a selection of alcoholic and other beverages. Off board, enjoy a farm-to-table gala lunch with Simon Rogan's Cartmel Valley farm experience and lunch at The Cadogan hotel in London
Prepare to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District as you step aboard the Britannic Explorer at London Victoria Station. Life on board is an indulgent affair, beginning with a sumptuous Cumbrian Afternoon Tea, curated by Chef Simon Rogan and inspired by his own Cumbrian heritage with treats such as Kendal mint cake and Grasmere gingerbread. As the afternoon unfolds, perhaps you will unwind with a restorative treatment in our Wellness Suite, or enjoy a cocktail or two from the Bar. Our route to the Lake District takes you through the heart of England, winding through the picturesque landscapes of Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire and South Yorkshire.
As night descends, take your seat for an exquisite dinner, curated by Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan MBE. The menu celebrates local, seasonal ingredients with innovative flavours, elevating your dining experience to new heights. After dinner, join us in the Observation Car, where you can dance the night away to music while sipping a small-batch gin and tonic. Finally, retreat to your tranquil suite for a restful night’s sleep.
Awaken to the scenic views of the Forest of Bowland and the enchanting Yorkshire Dales National Park passing by your window. As you travel along Cumbria’s southern coast, let your gaze drift to the stunning panorama of the Irish Sea shimmering in the distance. By early afternoon, we’ll arrive in Workington – your gateway to the Lake District. Here, we take a chauffeured journey to the Lingholm Estate, a Grade II listed Victorian mansion where Beatrix Potter once spent her idyllic summers. Within this exclusive sanctuary, with private quarters open solely to guests of the Britannic Explorer, explore your surroundings: try out tranquil watersports such as canoeing and paddleboarding on Derwentwater lake, meet the delightful local alpacas and play quintessentially English lawn games.
Reboard the train, now awaiting you at Penrith, just as dinner is being prepared. Tonight’s meal is yet another celebration of seasonal British fine dining, followed by lively onboard entertainment with your fellow bon vivants. As the evening draws to a close, the train will rest overnight on the scenic Settle & Carlisle line, nestled in the charming rural market town of Appleby.
Awaken to an elegant morning as a leisurely brunch awaits you in the dining car, alongside a freshly crafted Bellini. Savour this gentle time, perhaps with a spirited game of cards among newfound friends as we glide over the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct on the famed Settle & Carlisle line. Later, disembark for a unique culinary experience centred around Simon Rogan’s regenerative farm in the Cartmel Valley. Here, you will enjoy an extended farm tour, followed by one-of-a-kind sustainable dining experience.
Return to the train afterward to spend your next night aboard, as we settle amidst the Cotswolds’ patchwork tapestry, resting overnight just beyond the lights of London.
After a scenic journey, gliding through Oxfordshire and the Chilterns, we arrive at London Victoria for an early morning arrival. A transfer will be waiting to take you to The Cadogan, a Belmond hotel in London, where you can enjoy an three-course lunch with wine. Should you prefer, you are free to explore the sights of London independently.
We depart London once more in the afternoon, our journey to Wales commencing with another thoughtfully curated afternoon tea, featuring delightful Welsh teacakes and traditional bara brith fruit cake. As you savour these exquisite treats, the golden hour bathes the patchwork tapestry of the countryside in a warm, enchanting glow. After a masterfully curated dinner by Chef Rogan, retreat to your suite, where you can drift into a peaceful slumber.
As the sun rises and illuminates the breathtaking Pembrokeshire coastline, look ahead to a day filled with exploration of Wales’s scenic vistas and valleys. After a leisurely breakfast, disembark at Llandrindod Wells, where you can choose between two excursions: embark on a guided hike through the tranquil valleys of the remote Welsh heartlands, or enjoy a visit to a spectacular Welsh lavender farm, where you can take a dip in the pond, recharge in the sauna or simply relax by the log fire.
Rejoin the train as we continue our journey along the enchanting Heart of Wales Line, which gracefully winds through the rural uplands of Carmarthenshire and Powys. Travelling northward into Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), prepare to be mesmerised by the dramatic transformation of landscapes. As night falls, we disembark once more for a fire ceremony hosted by our wellness partners, Wildsmith. Our overnight stabling point for the evening is near the seaside town of Barmouth.
Spend a leisurely morning aboard the train, indulging in a wellness ritual or enjoying a blissful lie-in, followed by a sumptuous brunch. With a freshly made mimosa in hand, take in the passing scenery from the expansive windows of the Observation Car. We soon arrive in the vibrant town of Machynlleth, nestled at the southern edge of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) and renowned for its Museum of Modern Art. Here, choose between an art class and theatre performance, or a clay pigeon shooting activity.
Back on board, lunch is served as you continue travelling through the greenery of Mid Wales and Montgomeryshire, passing Welshpool before crossing the border into Shropshire.
After dinner on board, we wind down through the Midlands to reach Moreton-in-Marsh, an idyllic market town celebrated for its charming “chocolate box” cottages. Disembark for an exclusive party in a quintessential Cotswolds pub, The Fox in Oddington. Recently renovated by Carole Bamford, founder of Daylesford, this honey-coloured, 16th-century pub offers tasty homemade English fare such as Scotch eggs and sausage rolls, local ales and artisan liqueurs, as well as the chance to learn the art of pouring the perfect pint.
Savour a farewell breakfast as we journey through the picturesque landscapes of Oxfordshire and the enchanting Chilterns. As you reflect on the unforgettable memories from your breathtaking exploration of the United Kingdom, we gracefully arrive at London Victoria in the soft light of early morning.
Included Meals
Breakfast
What's Included?
Accommodation:
Six nights aboard the Britannic Explorer luxury train, with 24-hour steward service
Meals:
Daily table d'hôte meals, including breakfasts, brunches, lunches, afternoon teas and dinners, alongside a selection of alcoholic and other beverages. Off board, enjoy a farm-to-table gala lunch with Simon Rogan's Cartmel Valley farm experience and lunch at The Cadogan hotel in London
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