GB Railfreight (GBRf) has announced that it will haul the Britannic Explorer, a new Belmond train and the first luxury sleeper service to journey across England and Wales. Under a new long-term partnership, GBRf will serve as the rail freight provider for the Britannic Explorer, which will offer three-day itineraries from London to Wales, Cornwall, and the Lake District. There are also exciting plans to add a fourth itinerary in 2026.
As part of Belmond's commitment to reduce its carbon footprint, it has been agreed that both the Britannic Explorer and Royal Scotsman services will switch from the Class 66s to the new bi-mode Class 99s in 2027. The new cutting-edge locomotives, running on both electricity and renewable fuels, will meet today’s demands and tomorrow’s standards.
The Britannic Explorer features 18 cabins, including three Grand Suites that boast double beds, personal butler service and ensuite bathrooms. Passengers can unwind in the onboard spa and enjoy gourmet meals crafted by chef Simon Rogan, which collectively hold eight Michelin stars and two Michelin Green stars worldwide while travelling through the wonderful Welsh valleys, Cornish coastline, and the majestic mountains of the Lake District.
The Britannic Explorer’s cabins are styled with classic British design, providing passengers with the ultimate way to experience the beauty of the glorious British countryside and celebrate the art of slow travel.
GB Railfreight began hauling trains for Belmond in 2015, including the Royal Scotsman, which transports up to thirty-six guests across the heart of the Scottish Highlands for two, three and four night routes.
John Smith OBE, Chief Executive Officer, GB Railfreight said;
“Belmond continue to redefine luxury travel, and I am so proud that we will be hauling the marvellous Britannic Explorer. There is no better way to explore the British countryside than by rail - in a digital age, sometimes we all need to switch off, sit back and enjoy your surroundings. The cabins look absolutely exquisite and I know many customers will be keen to be on the first train this summer!”
Gary Franklin, Senior Vice President, Trains and Cruises, Belmond said:
"In the year that the UK celebrates 200 years of railways, Belmond are delighted to be launching the Britannic Explorer, England and Wales' first luxury sleeper. To be working with GB Railfreight who have worked tirelessly with us to deliver exciting new itineraries to parts of England and Wales sometimes hard to reach shows the strength of the partnership between the two companies."
Image credit: GB Railfreight
