Britannic Explorer Luxury Train Journey: Cornwall

Step aboard the Britannic Explorer at London Victoria, where the promise of an extraordinary journey awaits. Departing in the soft afternoon light, explore the train’s elegant carriages, including the sanctuary of your private cabin. As London recedes, England’s enchanting western countryside unfurls beyond your window. Settle into the dining carriage and savour Chef Simon Rogan’s Cornish Afternoon Tea, crafted with the finest ingredients from Cornwall’s larder – a true taste of British tradition, down to the spirited debate of jam or cream first.

Perhaps the Wellness Suite invites you to unwind, or the Bar tempts you with cocktails inspired by native botanicals as the train glides through the North Wessex Downs and Somerset’s storied market towns. By twilight, you’ll arrive at the West Somerset Railway, a heritage track offering spectacular countryside and coastal vistas. Enjoy a masterfully curated dinner by Chef Rogan, and then, in the Observation Car, savour music and the warmth of newfound friends over small-batch gin. As the evening concludes, retreat to your suite and drift into a peaceful slumber, embraced by the gentle rhythm of this remarkable journey.

Mornings aboard the Britannic Explorer are yours to savour. Start the day at your own pace – a tranquil first-light experience on the platform, a luxurious lie-in followed by brunch in the dining car, or a revitalising visit to the serene Wellness Suite. As the train glides along Devon’s stunning southern coast, you’ll journey along the famed Riviera Line, where sweeping sea views unfold past charming towns like Teignmouth. Skirting the rugged beauty of Dartmoor en-route to Plymouth, the train then enters Cornwall – Kernow in the local tongue. The journey towards Penzance in west Cornwall is equally captivating, with the luminous Cornish seas glistening as you pass through St Austell and Truro.

By early afternoon, we arrive in south Cornwall, where a wealth of unforgettable experiences awaits. Disembark at St Erth to explore the artistic haven of St Ives, with bespoke recommendations from our concierge’s curated black book, or continue to Penzance for a guided tour of the Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, culminating in a private Cornish wine tasting overlooking St Michael’s Mount. In the evening, rejoining the train for tonight’s dinner on board celebrates Britain’s seasonal bounty, followed by an evening of curated entertainment – a perfect close to a day immersed in the enchanting landscapes and culture of Britain’s southern coast.

After a delightful breakfast prepares you for this final, unforgettable day on board, immerse yourself in the timeless allure of south Cornwall’s Lostwithiel area, where thoughtfully curated excursions reveal the region's historic charm. Explore the picturesque seaside town of Fowey, where our Guest Experience team can craft a bespoke adventure tailored to your desires. Choose from a coastal hike along the famed “Hall Walk,” a private boat tour along the shore, or other excursions into the local area that invite you to discover its hidden gems.

As evening descends, re-board the train – your holiday home away from home – for a picturesque journey to Somerset, arriving in the enchanting town of Bruton. Here, an after-hours private tour of the esteemed Hauser & Wirth gallery awaits, complete with a champagne reception in the gallery’s idyllic gardens. The day culminates in a private black-tie gala dinner at Da Costa, Hauser & Wirth's celebrated Italian restaurant – a true celebration of fine dining. As the evening draws to a close, the train rests peacefully on the serene East Somerset Railway, promising a night of undisturbed tranquillity.

Savour a farewell breakfast as we depart the tranquil East Somerset Railway, your heart filled with cherished memories of the stunning Southwest. As the train journeys towards London Victoria, relish the final moments of this extraordinary adventure, culminating in an early morning arrival that marks the end of a remarkable journey. Arrive in London with joy and celebration, dreaming of your next voyage. Our journey together ends here – until we meet again.