The introduction of the Britannic Explorer, A Belmond Train marks the inaugural luxury sleeper train to operate across England and Wales.
The train will embark on its first journey to Wales later this month, followed by Cornwall shortly after.
Designing the Britannic Explorer
London-based design studio Albion Nord led the interior design, collaborating with a select group of British artists and artisans including Luke Edward Hall, Mel Campion, and Olly Fathers.
Across eight meticulously restored carriages, the team created a layered environment that bridges British heritage with contemporary design through the use of natural materials (such as stone, wood, and wool) paired with earthy hues and rich textures.
The train houses 18 cabins—three Grand Suites and 15 Suites—each designed to reflect the natural and cultural beauty of the British landscape. Thoughtfully integrated antiques, bold patterns, and tactile finishes establish a refined yet playful atmosphere, whether in the privacy of a guest’s suite or in the social spaces, which include an onboard spa, bar, and restaurant cars.
“Designing the Britannic Explorer has been an extraordinary opportunity to tell a new story of British luxury—one rooted in craft, landscape, and character,” says Camilla Clarke, creative director at Albion Nord. “We wanted the interiors to feel refined yet bold, timeless yet unexpected, much like Britain itself.”
Art in motion
The Double Suites feature custom wallpaper and textiles developed by Luke Edward Hall in collaboration with Rubelli.
His illustrative motifs, inspired by botanicals and regional landmarks, also appear on bespoke furnishings in the Grand Suites. In these spaces, sculptural wood panels by Olly Fathers add a graphic counterpoint, while artwork by Marcus James captures the drama of Britain’s countryside through expressive pen drawings.
Mirrors handcrafted by shell artist Mel Campion accent the powder rooms, while painter Sarah Woods contributes serene landscapes to the Wellness Suite. Lighting by Rose Uniacke offers a minimalist contrast to the more decorative elements, emphasizing craftsmanship and organic form.
In the dining carriages, kinetic paintings by Ed Burkes depict abstract dancers in motion, complemented by hand-dyed textile wall panels by Adam Halls, whose layered compositions are inspired by the textures of lichen and algae.
“Every element, from the palette and materials to the artwork and antiques, was chosen to evoke a sense of place and personality,” Clarke adds. “It has been a privilege to collaborate with Belmond and an inspiring community of British makers to bring this vision to life.”
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