Britannic Explorer: Cornwall & Wales

Your extraordinary journey begins with ease, as your private driver collects you from your centrally located London hotel and transfers you to London Victoria Station with ample time to board the Britannic Explorer. Step aboard and explore the train’s elegant carriages, including the sanctuary of your private cabin. As London slips away in the soft afternoon light, England’s enchanting western countryside begins to unfurl beyond your window. Settle into the dining car to savor Chef Simon Rogan’s Cornish Afternoon Tea, featuring the finest ingredients from Cornwall’s larder—a true taste of British tradition, right down to the spirited debate over jam or cream first. Later, perhaps unwind in the Wellness Suite or sip cocktails inspired by native botanicals in the Bar, as the train glides through the North Wessex Downs and Somerset’s storied market towns. By twilight, arrive at the heritage West Somerset Railway and take in the spectacular countryside and coastal vistas. Enjoy a masterful dinner by Chef Rogan, followed by live music and gin in the Observation Car, before retiring to your suite for a peaceful night’s rest. 

Mornings aboard the Britannic Explorer invite you to savour the moment. Enjoy a luxurious lie-in or a revitalizing visit to the Wellness Suite before brunch is served in the dining car. As the train follows Devon’s stunning southern coast along the famed Riviera Line, sweeping sea views accompany you past charming towns like Teignmouth. Skirting the rugged beauty of Dartmoor en route to Plymouth, the train crosses into Cornwall—Kernow in the local tongue. The westward journey towards Penzance reveals luminous Cornish seas as you pass through St Austell and Truro. By early afternoon, disembark in south Cornwall for a choice of experiences: explore St Ives with access to the Tate gallery and Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden, or tour the Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens paired with a private Cornish wine tasting overlooking St Michael’s Mount. In the evening, rejoin the train for a celebratory dinner showcasing Britain’s seasonal bounty, followed by curated entertainment. 

A delightful breakfast sets the tone for your final full day in Cornwall. Step ashore to explore the timeless charm of the Lostwithiel area. Choose between a scenic boat tour from Fowey with a beach BBQ, or a visit to Colwith Distillery for a tour and tasting of award-winning Cornish vodka. As evening falls, rejoin the train for a picturesque journey to Somerset, arriving in the enchanting town of Bruton. Here, enjoy an exclusive after-hours tour of the Hauser & Wirth Somerset art gallery, with drinks and canapés in the idyllic Oudolf Field meadow. The day concludes with a memorable dinner at Da Costa, where dishes inspired by Northern Italy’s Veneto region are crafted using the finest Somerset produce. The train rests overnight on the serene East Somerset Railway. 

Savour a farewell breakfast as the train departs the tranquil East Somerset Railway. Upon your early arrival at London Victoria, your private driver will be waiting to transfer you comfortably back to your centrally located hotel. For those with time before continuing the journey, enjoy a leisurely stroll or visit the Belmond sister hotel, The Cadogan, for a light lunch or glass of English sparkling wine on the terrace. Later, reboard the train for the next chapter: a journey to Wales. As golden hour bathes the Cotswold's, savor an afternoon tea of Welsh teacakes and traditional bara brith fruit cake. After a thoughtfully prepared dinner by Chef Rogan, retreat to your suite for a restful night. 

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast as the train hugs the breathtaking Pembrokeshire coastline. Disembark at Llandrindod Wells for your choice of excursions: a guided hike through tranquil Welsh valleys, or a visit to a picturesque lavender farm, complete with pond dip, sauna, and cosy fireside relaxation. Rejoin the train for a scenic ride along the Heart of Wales Line into Eryri National Park (Snowdonia). The train rests overnight near Barmouth, following a dinner of seasonal delights. 

Enjoy a relaxed morning aboard with brunch and a freshly mixed mimosa, taking in the ever-changing landscapes from the Observation Car. In Machynlleth, choose between an art class with theatre performance or a clay pigeon shooting experience. Continue through Mid Wales into Shropshire, before disembarking at Moreton-in-Marsh for an exclusive party at The Fox, a quintessential Cotswold's pub. Sample homemade English fare, local ales, and artisan liqueurs, and even learn to pour the perfect pint. 

As your remarkable journey draws to a close, savor a final breakfast while gliding through Oxfordshire and the Chilterns. On arrival at London Victoria in the soft morning light, your private driver will be ready to whisk you back to your London hotel, ensuring a seamless end to your unforgettable adventure.