Britannic Explorer: The Lake District & Wales

Prepare to traverse the glorious English countryside and immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District as you step aboard the Britannic Explorer at London Victoria Station. Settle into your private quarters, where the elegant ambience reflects the illustrious landscape through which the train passes. Life on board is an indulgent affair, beginning with a sumptuous Cumbrian Afternoon Tea, curated by Chef Simon Rogan, with his own Cumbrian heritage reflected in the menu. Perhaps you'll try a slice of Kendal mint cake, or some sumptuous Grasmere gingerbread. As the afternoon unfolds, unwind with a restorative treatment in our Wellness Suite, or perhaps 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, once again crafted by Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan, a true pioneer of the farm-to-fork movement. Anticipate culinary masterpieces that celebrate local, seasonal ingredients and 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, surrounded by cherished new friends. 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 rushing past 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 the beloved Beatrix Potter once spent her idyllic summers. Within this exclusive sanctuary, with private quarters open solely to guests of the Britannic Explorer, choose your adventure: immerse yourself in guided open-water swimming, meet the delightful local alpacas, or embark on a scenic hike around the breathtaking nearby fells. For those wishing to explore a little further afield, our onboard concierge is ready to curate your ideal outing.

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, ready for yet another day of indulgent exploration.

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. Today’s journey winds gracefully through the breathtaking landscapes of the Peak District, drawing us toward Oxfordshire and the timeless splendour of Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons. Awaiting us here is an exquisite black-tie gala dinner in the exclusive Le Belle Époque dining room, with views over the 15th-century manor – a night of refined Provençal-inspired indulgence in a setting crafted for celebration.

Return to the train afterward to spend your final 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. You have free time here as we collect more passengers, so disembark and stretch your legs to explore the local area – perhaps making the short 15-minute stroll to our sister hotel, The Cadogan, for a spot of lunch or a glass of English sparkling wine on their terrace.

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 Cotswolds in a warm, enchanting glow, transforming the countryside into a breathtaking panorama of rich hues.

As the evening unfolds, you may choose to indulge in the serenity of the wellness suite, sample the diverse selection of gins in the bar, or engage in a friendly board game with newfound companions. After relishing a masterfully curated dinner by Chef Rogan, retreat to your suite, where you can drift into a peaceful slumber, cradled by the gentle rhythm of this extraordinary journey.

As the sun rises, illuminating the breathtaking Pembrokeshire coastline, embrace the promise of a day filled with exploration amidst Wales's scenic vistas and verdant valleys. After a leisurely breakfast, disembark at Llanwrtyd Wells, where a guided hike through the tranquil valleys of the remote Welsh heartland awaits. Along the way, indulge in a quintessentially British picnic amidst fragrant lavender fields, complete with a beautifully curated hamper that celebrates the best of local produce. For those desiring a more relaxed pace, our attentive Guest Experience team is on hand to recommend a selection of thoughtfully crafted activities tailored to your preferences.

After your invigorating excursion, rejoin the train and continue your journey along the enchanting Heart of Wales Line, which gracefully winds through the rural uplands of Carmarthenshire and Powys. As you travel northward into Snowdonia National Park – known as Eryri to the locals – prepare to be mesmerised by the dramatic transformation of landscapes, where lush valleys rise to meet soaring peaks and cascading waterfalls. This evening's dining experience promises another celebration of seasonal British fine dining, perfectly paired with an enchanting entertainment lineup. Our overnight stabling point for the evening is the charming town of Porthmadog, nestled within the majestic embrace of Snowdonia National Park.

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. Our next destination is the vibrant town of Machynlleth, nestled at the southern edge of Snowdonia National Park. Renowned for its Museum of Modern Art, Machynlleth is a hub of creativity, sustainability, and exceptional cuisine. Our Concierge's curated black book of excursions reflects the town’s ethos, offering a range of active pursuits complemented by a glass or two of exquisite natural Welsh wine.

As we journey back on board, the time has come for the grand finale of our Welsh adventure, a celebration of the very best of British terroir. A lavish five-course black-tie lunch is served as we glide towards the Cotswolds, traversing the lush greenery of Mid Wales and Montgomeryshire, passing through Welshpool before crossing into Shropshire. We wind down through the West Midlands to Oxfordshire, arriving at Moreton-in-Marsh, an idyllic market town celebrated for its charming 'chocolate box' cottages. Here, we disembark for an exclusive after-party in a quintessential Cotswolds pub, where you can immerse yourself in local culture. Savour an array of English delights, from homemade scotch eggs to delectable sausage rolls, and for those feeling adventurous, the bar awaits as you learn the art of pouring the perfect pint.

After a night filled with laughter, dancing, and sampling a variety of local ales, wines, and handcrafted liqueurs, retreat to your suite for your final restful night on board.

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.