Luxury sleeper train, The Britannic Explorer, ready to run

The first luxury sleeper train in England and Wales, the Britannic Explorer, makes its first run on July 21.

Part of the Belmond train stable, it will leave London Victoria Station for three-night itineraries to iconic regions — the coastline of Cornwall, the Lake District and the heartlands of Wales.

A spokesperson for the Britannic Explorer team promises: “The pioneering train embodies modern British identity through playing with history, style and personality to create something unexpected and unconventional.”

THE INSIDE STORY

Within eight carriages featuring bold fabrics and carefully selected antiques are 18 cabins, comprising three grand suites and 15 suites. There’s restaurant cars and a spa.

The spokesperson says: “The design draws inspiration from the serene, organic beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Natural materials — wood, stone and wool — are thoughtfully paired with earthy tones and tactile finishes, evoking the elegance of the British countryside.

“The result is a harmonious blend of tradition and modern luxury, where guests feel simultaneously grounded in nature and enveloped in the distinctive style of the Britannic Explorer.”

The train’s interior has been designed by London-based studio Albion Nord, in collaboration with Luke Edward Hall, Mel Campion and Olly Fathers.

+ Luke is famous for fusing classical motifs with contemporary vibrancy. He has reinterpreted a Rubelli fabric with a “whimsical and illustrative design inspired by elements that guests will see along their travels — from botanicals to key landmarks”.

+ Shell artist Mel Campion has created mirrors for the powder rooms.

+ Designer Rose Uniacke brings her understated touch to the custom light fittings.

+ In the wellness suite, painter and printmaker Sarah Woods has captured a calming beach landscape in muted hues.

+ The dining carriages have depictions of dancing figures by Ed Burkes, and Adam Halls’ hand-dyed fabric creations inspired by lichen and algae.

+ The grand suites have striking panels by Brixton-based Olly Fathers, who is known for bold, geometric abstracts.

+ Those suites also have Marcus James’ intricate multicoloured pen depictions of the landscapes of the Lake District.

DINING & DOING

+ Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan, a pioneer of Britain’s farm-to-fork movement, leads the dining team. Executive head chef Sven-Hanson Britt will present seasonal menus that feature British produce, with an emphasis on good provenance and sustainability.

+ There are lots of excursions, from coastal sailing and yoga sessions by the sea in Cornwall to wild swimming, rowing and paddleboarding in the Lake District. In Wales, art classes are offered.

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A double cabin with the three-night itinerary, excursions, meals, wine and alcoholic beverages on board is from $11,000. belmond.com/trains/europe/uk/britannic-explorer/ or email reservations.bex@belmond.com