The Complete Guide
All You Want to Know
All You Want to Know
About Britannic Explorer
The Britannic Explorer is Belmond's intimate new luxury train, carrying just 36 guests through the celebrated landscapes of England and Wales in private en-suite accommodation. Whether you choose a three-night journey through Cornwall, the Lake District, or Wales — or combine two routes into a six-night grand tour — every fare is fully inclusive of fine dining, beverages, and curated excursions. Here are answers to the questions travellers ask most before booking this exceptional rail journey.
At a Glance
| Region | England · Wales · United Kingdom · Europe |
| Countries | England, Wales |
| Journey length | 3–6 nights |
| Itineraries | Cornwall by Britannic Explorer; The Lake District by Britannic Explorer; Wales by Britannic Explorer; Cornwall & Wales by Britannic Explorer; The Lake District & Wales by Britannic Explorer |
| Price | from £6,300 per person (varies by cabin & season) |
| Upcoming departures | 105 dates, Jun 2026 – Nov 2027 · view dates → |
| Reservations | 1-800-724-5120 · travel@palacetours.com |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Britannic Explorer and where does it travel?+
The Britannic Explorer is a Belmond luxury train that glides through the countryside of England and Wales with just 36 guests aboard. Launched in July 2025, it operates three signature routes — Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales — departing from London and returning guests to the capital at the end of each journey.
What journeys are available and how long do they last?+
There are five itineraries in total. Three standalone three-night journeys cover Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales respectively. Two six-night grand-tour combinations pair Cornwall with Wales, or the Lake District with Wales, with a London interlude between legs that can be enjoyed as free time or an organised experience. All itineraries depart from London.
How much does the Britannic Explorer cost?+
Fares start from £6,300 per person for a Suite on a three-night journey, and from £15,300 per person for a Grand Suite on a three-night journey. Prices vary by cabin category, departure date, and party size — contact Palace Trains to confirm current availability and pricing for your preferred dates: toll-free 1-800-724-5120, +1-786-408-0610 (international/WhatsApp), or travel@palacetours.com.
What types of accommodation are available on board?+
The train offers two suite categories. Grand Suites (three in total, 120 sq ft each) are named Juniper, Valerian, and Elder, and feature a double bed, marble bathroom with walk-in shower, dining table, armchair, sofa, and personal butler service. Suites (eleven in total, 84 sq ft each) are available with either a double bed or twin beds, and include a private bathroom; the steward converts the seating area for night. A dedicated Wellness Suite and an Observation Car with bar serve all guests.
What is included in the fare?+
Every fare on the Britannic Explorer is fully inclusive. This covers all meals (three-course lunches and four-course dinners in two elegant dining cars), all beverages, and the curated shore excursions included in your itinerary. Grand Suite guests also receive personal butler service, one complimentary spa treatment per guest, in-suite private dining on request, and private arrival and departure transfers. All guests receive Wi-Fi, a journey guidebook, and exclusive Belmond bath amenities.
When does the Britannic Explorer operate, and how many departures are there?+
The Britannic Explorer runs a full season from April through November, with departures available across March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and November. There are currently over 105 upcoming departures scheduled through November 2027. See the train's departure table on the Palace Trains website for specific dates, or contact us to find the best departure for you.
Who operates the Britannic Explorer and what makes it special?+
The Britannic Explorer is operated by Belmond, the world-renowned luxury travel company behind iconic trains such as the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and the Royal Scotsman. What makes it particularly distinctive is its intimate scale — just 36 guests share the entire train — combined with Belmond's hallmark standards of service, cuisine, and bespoke excursions that bring each destination to life.
How do I book or check availability?+
Palace Trains is your dedicated booking partner for the Britannic Explorer. You can reach the team toll-free at 1-800-724-5120, internationally at +1-786-408-0610 (also available on WhatsApp), or by email at travel@palacetours.com. Advisors can confirm real-time availability, cabin options, and current pricing for your preferred dates.
What signature dining experiences are offered on board?+
The Britannic Explorer features two elegant dining cars serving three-course lunches and four-course dinners, with menus that celebrate British and regional cuisine. Grand Suite guests may also arrange private in-suite dining on request, and all guests have access to the Observation Car bar throughout the journey.
What wellness and leisure facilities are on board?+
In addition to the two dining cars and the Observation Car bar, the train has a dedicated Wellness Suite. Grand Suite guests receive one complimentary spa treatment per guest as part of their inclusive fare. The intimate size of the train — just 36 guests — means a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere throughout every journey.