About Time: You Explored England by TrainBy Claudine Levy
In an age of selfie sticks, Instagram filters and countless virtual realities, it’s such a glorious relief to step back in time. If you want to escape without having to pack your bags, then look no further than the Belmond British Pullman – an exquisite luxury train services, which takes guests on beautiful old trains all around the UK. Here’s what you need to know:
The Belmond British Pullman steam-train seamlessly transports you into an Agatha Christie novel; except with less murder and more port. A magical time machine, the Pullman is guaranteed to make you feel all warm and fuzzy with nostalgia for a time you don’t even remember. The train itself is sister to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express; a beautiful, imposing steam-train oozing vintage charm, with the oldest carriage dating back to 1925.
Glide through stunning scenery to exciting destinations all over Britain, dining on lovingly prepared cuisine paired with the finest wines. No journey is complete without taking a stroll through the train – admire the unique flourishes that make Belmond British Pullman truly one of a kind: veneered panels decorated with Art Deco marquetry, plush roomy armchairs, tables set with linen, silver and crystal, the brass luggage racks that gleam overhead.
Belmond British Pullman: The Ride
Choo-chooing its way into the British countryside from Victoria station, the train languorously travels around stunning English scenes while you wistfully sip champers and pretend you’re lunching with Kate Middleton. From tasting menus created by Michelin-starred chefs to lavish dinners paired with different champagnes, it’s a real foodie experience.
You can choose between gourmet journeys, special dinners with world-famous chefs or explore one of the destinations that put the great in Great Britain, such as Chatsworth House in Derbyshire, Brunel’s SS Great Britain in Bristol, and splendid cities such as Bath, Cambridge and Canterbury.
Belmond British Pullman: The Food
You won’t go hungry on Belmond. On the day we experienced it, we enjoyed a four-course extravaganza served on board, followed by old-school jazz singers who serenade you over your coffee and petit fours. This summer, highlights include the celebrity chef dinner with celebrity chefs, where you can sample a sumptuous feast created by some of Britain’s foremost chefs aboard Belmond British Pullman, and a quintessentially British affair with the Fortnum and Mason tea on board. There’s also super fancy dinner hosted by Mosimanns, and a special Murder Mystery Lunch, if you like a bit of drama with your food. Don’t miss the special dinner hosted by Tom Kerridge, it’s going to be an absolute feast.
Belmond British Pullman: Our Verdict
This is the kind of experience you save for a really special occasion. And once you step off the train and back into the 21st century, we recommend using the Mayfair filter on all those beaut pics you took on the way. For one day only, allow yourself to be transported in time and lose yourself among the beauty of England.
Book Belmond British Pullman‘s upcoming rides here
