Britannic Explorer: The Wonders of Wales

Your luxury Wales holiday begins at the iconic London Victoria Station, where you board the Britannic Explorer. Your bags have been checked in, final touches made to your luxurious suite, and the departure whistle begins to blow. After exploring your private quarters, it’s time to relax in one of the botanically inspired dining carriages. We commence our journey with a thoughtfully curated afternoon tea, expertly crafted by Chef Simon Rogan, featuring delightful Welsh teacakes and traditional bara brith fruit cake. As you savour these exquisite treats, golden hour bathes the patchwork tapestry of the Cotswolds in a warm, enchanting glow, transforming the countryside into a breathtaking panorama of rich hues.

As the evening unfolds, you may choose to indulge in the serenity of the Wellness Suite, sample the diverse selection of gins in the bar, or engage in a friendly board game with newfound companions. After relishing a masterfully curated dinner by Chef Rogan, retreat to your suite, where you can drift into a peaceful slumber, cradled by the gentle rhythm of this extraordinary journey.

As the sun rises, illuminating the breathtaking Pembrokeshire coastline, embrace the promise of a day filled with exploration amidst Wales's scenic vistas and verdant valleys. After a leisurely breakfast, disembark at Llandrindod Wells, where a guided hike through the tranquil valleys of the remote Welsh heartland awaits. Along the way, indulge in a quintessentially British picnic amidst fragrant lavender fields, complete with a beautifully curated hamper that celebrates the best of local produce. For those desiring a more relaxed pace, our attentive Guest Experience team is on hand to recommend a selection of thoughtfully crafted activities tailored to your preferences.

After your invigorating excursion, rejoin the train and continue your journey along the enchanting Heart of Wales Line, which gracefully winds through the rural uplands of Carmarthenshire and Powys. As you travel northward into Snowdonia National Park – known as Eryri to the locals – prepare to be mesmerised by the dramatic transformation of landscapes, where lush valleys rise to meet soaring peaks and cascading waterfalls. This evening's dining experience promises another celebration of seasonal British fine dining, perfectly paired with an enchanting entertainment lineup. Our overnight stabling point for the evening is the charming town of Porthmadog near north Wales, nestled within the majestic embrace of Snowdonia National Park.

Spend a leisurely morning aboard the train, indulging in a wellness ritual or enjoying a blissful lie-in, followed by a sumptuous brunch. With a freshly made mimosa in hand, take in the passing scenery from the expansive windows of the Observation Car. Our next destination is the vibrant town of Machynlleth, nestled at the southern edge of Snowdonia National Park. Renowned for its Museum of Modern Art, Machynlleth is a hub of creativity, sustainability, and exceptional cuisine. Our Concierge's curated black book of excursions offers a range of active pursuits, complemented by a glass or two of exquisite natural Welsh wine.

As we journey back on board, the time has come for the grand finale of our Welsh adventure: a celebration of the very best of British terroir. A lavish five-course black-tie lunch is served as we glide towards the Cotswolds, traversing the lush greenery of Mid Wales and Montgomeryshire, passing through Welshpool before crossing into Shropshire. We wind down through the West Midlands to Oxfordshire, arriving at Moreton-in-Marsh, an idyllic market town celebrated for its charming 'chocolate box' cottages. Here, we disembark for an exclusive after-party in a quintessential Cotswolds pub, where you can immerse yourself in local culture. Savour an array of English delights, from homemade scotch eggs to delectable sausage rolls, and for those feeling adventurous, the bar awaits as you learn the art of pouring the perfect pint.

After a night filled with laughter, dancing, and sampling a variety of local ales, wines, and handcrafted liqueurs, retreat to your suite for your final restful night on board.

Savour a farewell breakfast as we journey through the picturesque landscapes of Oxfordshire and the enchanting Chilterns. As you reflect on the unforgettable memories from your breathtaking Wales holiday, we gracefully arrive at London Victoria in the soft light of early morning.