Great Rail Journey to The Lake District Aboard Britannic Explorer

Prepare to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District on an unforgettable journey aboard the Britannic Explorer. Your experience begins with a seamless private transfer and driver, collecting you from your centrally located London hotel and whisking you in comfort to London Victoria Station to board your luxurious train. 

Once on board, indulgence awaits. Settle in with a sumptuous Cumbrian Afternoon Tea, curated by Chef Simon Rogan and inspired by his own Cumbrian heritage—featuring delights such as Kendal mint cake and Grasmere gingerbread. As the afternoon unfolds, unwind with a restorative treatment in our Wellness Suite or savour a handcrafted cocktail from the Bar while the train glides through the picturesque landscapes of Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire, and South Yorkshire on its way to the Lake District. 

As evening descends, take your seat for an exquisite dinner crafted by Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan and Executive Chef Sven-Hanson Britt. Each dish celebrates local, seasonal ingredients with innovative flair, creating a dining experience to remember. After dinner, join us in the Observation Car to sip a small-batch gin and tonic while enjoying live music—or perhaps dance the night away. When the evening draws to a close, retreat to the serenity of your private suite for a restful night’s sleep. 

Awaken to breathtaking views as the Britannic Explorer glides past the Forest of Bowland and through the picturesque Yorkshire Dales National Park. As the morning unfolds, gaze out at the spectacular vistas of Cumbria’s southern coast, where the Irish Sea shimmers on the horizon, adding a touch of maritime magic to your journey. 

By early afternoon, we arrive in Workington—the gateway to the Lake District—where your private chauffeur awaits. Set off on a scenic drive to the magnificent Lingholm Estate, a Grade II listed Victorian mansion that once inspired the beloved tales of Beatrix Potter. This exclusive retreat, with private areas reserved for Britannic Explorer guests, invites you to embrace the charm of the countryside: glide across Derwentwater on a canoe or paddleboard, meet the resident alpacas, or enjoy classic English lawn games on the estate’s manicured grounds. 

As the afternoon draws to a close, rejoin the train at Penrith just as a sumptuous dinner is being prepared. Tonight’s menu once again showcases the finest seasonal British produce, crafted into imaginative dishes to delight the senses. After dinner, gather with fellow travellers for lively entertainment in the Observation Car. The train comes to rest overnight on the scenic Settle & Carlisle line, in the heart of the quaint rural market town of Appleby—offering the perfect end to an extraordinary day. 

 Awaken to a refined morning aboard the Britannic Explorer, where a leisurely brunch is served in the dining car—complete with a freshly mixed Bellini to toast the day ahead. Take this tranquil time to relax, perhaps joining newfound friends for a game of cards as the train glides gracefully across the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct on the legendary Settle & Carlisle line. 

Later, disembark for a truly special experience: a visit to Simon Rogan’s regenerative farm in the picturesque Cartmel Valley. Enjoy an immersive tour of the farm, where pioneering sustainable practices come to life, followed by an unforgettable dining experience that showcases the very best of seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine. 

As the day draws to a close, reboard the train for your final night of luxury on rails. The Britannic Explorer comes to rest amid the storybook scenery of the Cotswolds, spending the night just beyond the glow of London—offering a peaceful end to this remarkable journey.