Britain's Luxurious New Train Canceled Again

Belmond Faces Repeated Setbacks with New Luxury Train

For the second time in a month, the luxury train operator Belmond has canceled the inaugural run of its newest addition to the fleet, the Britannic Explorer. This high-end train, which promises an exclusive travel experience across England and Wales, was expected to embark on a three-day journey starting from London Victoria at 3:45 pm today. However, passengers were informed late last night that the trip had been canceled due to technical issues.

The decision came as a blow to travelers who had planned to experience what was intended to be a showcase of the best of modern England and Wales. The cancellation followed tests over the weekend that revealed problems with the door mechanism. Despite the efforts of the engineering team, the issue could not be resolved in time, leading to the difficult decision to cancel the trip.

This is not the first time the Britannic Explorer has faced delays. Two weeks earlier, the train’s initial launch—a three-day journey to Cornwall—was also canceled. Belmond had hoped that the technical issues would be resolved in time for the Wales departure, but ultimately, the company decided to cancel the trip just hours before it was scheduled to depart.

An email sent to passengers late Sunday night expressed deep regret over the inconvenience caused. The message stated, “This decision was not taken lightly.” Affected guests have been issued full refunds, and they have also been offered a complimentary journey on the Britannic Explorer either later this year or in 2026. Additionally, the company has agreed to cover any related expenses, including arranging alternative accommodation.

Although a new launch date has not yet been announced, a representative from Belmond indicated that the train will be fully operational this summer, with the exact date to be confirmed closer to the time.

Belmond has long been known for its luxurious train journeys, particularly through its flagship Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE). The company's reputation was further solidified when it was named best rail holiday company in the 2025 Telegraph Travel Awards. In addition to the VSOE, Belmond operates other luxury trains such as the Eastern & Oriental Express in Malaysia, the Hiram Bingham and Andean Explorer in Peru, and the Royal Scotsman in Scotland.

What the Britannic Explorer Will Offer

The Britannic Explorer was introduced to meet the growing demand for slower, more mindful, and extremely luxurious train travel. The train offers a top-end experience on routes across England and Wales, with three distinct itineraries designed to highlight some of the country’s most scenic regions. These include Pembrokeshire and Snowdonia National Park (Eryri) in Wales, the Cornish Riviera, and the Lake District, including the famous stretch of track between Settle and Carlisle.

The Britannic Explorer represents a significant departure from previous models. It is a completely revamped version of the Grand Hibernian train, which operated in Ireland between 2016 and 2021. Rather than replicating the classic look of the VSOE, the new train combines a modern feel with vintage elements inspired by the natural world and the creative forces of the areas it travels through.

Designed by London-based Albion Nord, the train features expansive suites and grand suites with private bathrooms, as well as dining spaces inspired by British herbs and flowers. The culinary experience is led by Michelin-acclaimed British chef Simon Rogan, who brings his farm-to-fork philosophy to the menu, highlighting local specialties and artisan suppliers along the route.

The social hub of the train is the Observation Car, an elegant space featuring armchairs, banquettes, and a bar illuminated by amber glass discs reminiscent of Victorian apothecaries. Off-train, the trips are designed to include visits to galleries, rugged hikes, wild swims, yoga sessions by the sea, and a range of gastronomic experiences, including learning how to pull a pint in a Cotswolds pub.

“We’re offering some unique experiences, things people can’t do themselves just driving up to these places,” said Gary Franklin, Belmond’s senior vice-president, trains & cruises. “We are showcasing a modern England with incredible artisans, artists, and produce.”

Despite its luxurious offerings, the Britannic Explorer has faced challenges, including repeated cancellations and delays. As the company works to resolve these issues, it continues to aim for a successful launch later this summer.