There’s a new belle of the ball – in the world of trains anyway – with the ever-opulent Belmond Group introducing the world’s first luxury sleeper train into England and Wales: the aptly named Britannic Explorer. A company synonymous with the best of the best when it comes to travel (and no stranger to a luxe sleeper train), Belmond has ushered in a new accommodation offering which mingles old and new, or as they put it: “fuses a celebration of timeless rail heritage with contemporary British gastronomy, culture and style”.

Slow travel is the future, with trains in particular predicted to boom in the years to come. Belmond has jumped aboard this trend (pardon the pun), with the Britannic Explorer being its latest long-journey train. The train will sashay across the United Kingdom on a series of three-night journeys. Departing from London, guests will be able to take in the luscious sights of Cornwall, the Lake District or Wales. Each trip will also offer off-train guided excursions to better introduce you to the regions along the way. These routes have even been cleverly scheduled to allow travellers to combine two regional journeys in one trip if they so fancy: the Cornwall and Lake District routes run from Friday to Monday, while the Wales journey runs from Monday to Thursday. It’s a chance to see a new side to Britain, promises Gary Franklin, Vice President of Trains and Cruises at Belmond: “The Britannic Explorer offers something truly unique,” he says. “An opportunity to discover the rugged Cornish coastline to Snowdonia’s untamed National Park and the vast expanses of the Lake District like never before.”

The Britannic Explorer’s distinct aesthetic, proudly abundant in the soft tones and clashing patterns for which the Brits are famed, is the work of renowned London-based studio Albion Nord. Elegant, with a touch of heritage charm, the space has embraced shades inspired by the landscape through which the train journeys. Within its stylish walls, you’ll find 18 cabins (of varying degrees of abundant luxury), and a lavish restaurant (more on that later). Plus there’s a dedicated wellness suite (of course), where you can unwind with a massage before you head to the bar – a drinking den inspired by Victorian apothecaries that will serve up botanically inspired cocktails alongside a curation of artisan gins and craft beers which seek to highlight the UK’s independent distilleries and breweries.

Forget about sad sandwiches or a packet of chips while on board. The Britannic’s fabulous take on the traditional train restaurant car will be manned by fine-dining star chef Simon Rogan. The man behind Michelin-starred L’Enclume will create bespoke afternoon tea, lunch and dinner menus for the Britannic Explorer, all of which will celebrate local specialty fare. “For me, true luxury lies in humble ingredients, grown with care, respect for their surroundings and harvested at their peak,” says Rogan of his involvement. “I am very excited to bring this approach to the launch of the Britannic Explorer, where each plate will reflect Britain’s diverse landscapes. I hope every passenger not only enjoys the flavours but also feels a connection between the dishes and the journey, making their time on board truly memorable.”

As for sleeping quarters, the Britannic Explorer boasts 18 separate cabins built for slumber. There are three grand suites and 15 double or twin suites to choose from, with interiors adorned with materials sourced from across the United Kingdom and kitted out with all your creature comforts (and then some). Arguably even better than the furnishings are the views that each suite offers its guests along the way.

Accommodation aboard the Britannic Explorer starts from £5,800 per person. This includes a 3-night itinerary, any excursions undertaken and meals (and drinks) while on board. Bookings can be made online.