One of the most beautiful train trips in the world is debuting in London this summer – where you can stay on a ‘glass train’ with panoramic views of Lake District, Cornwall and Wales

This summer, the UK’s much-anticipated £100 million “glass train” will begin its maiden voyages from London Victoria to the country’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Vaishnavi Pandey - Staff Writer • 27 February, 2026

interiors of the belmond britannic explorer — Credit: Belmond

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A new era of British rail luxury is about to leave the station. This summer, the Britannic Explorer – the UK’s much-anticipated £100 million “glass train” will begin its maiden voyages from London Victoria, promising passengers not just a journey, but a lavishly immersive travel experience through the country’s most breathtaking landscapes.

The Britannic Explorer, the UK’s first-ever luxury sleeper train

Described as a “moving sanctuary,” the Britannic Explorer London line reimagines train travel for a modern audience craving slow, sensory-rich escapes. Think panoramic glass panels for uninterrupted views, intimate overnight cabins dressed in plush British textiles, and a rolling restaurant car that serves regionally inspired tasting menus crafted by Michelin-level chefs.

Each carriage of the Britannic Explorer reflects the spirit of classic British craftsmanship, we’re talking oak finishes, Art Deco-inspired lounges, and on-board spas with Lake District-inspired fragrances. But luxury isn’t the only story. The train also represents a soft movement toward sustainability in leisure travel: opting for low-carbon rail journeys instead of short-haul domestic flights.

UK’s first-ever luxury sleeper train from London Victoria to Lake District, Cornwall and rural Wales

Luxe bedroom on the Britannic Explorer sleeper train — Photo: Belmond

Departing from London Victoria Station, routes will roll north to the peaks of the Lake District, west to Cornwall’s secret coves, and beyond to the dramatic beauty of rural Wales. Designed for multi-day “journey stays,” each itinerary pairs stunning views with curated stopovers at partner hotels, vineyards, and country estates en route.

Maiden voyages are set to depart in June 2026, marking the start of a new chapter for Britain’s rail renaissance.

With only a handful of luxury sleeper lines operating in Europe, this addition gives London a fresh draw for global travellers and content creators alike.

So, if your dream escape combines vintage glamour, slow travel, and cinematic countryside views, you might want to reserve your berth before the rails start humming this summer.