british pullman steam hauled excursions

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The Belmond British Pullman

Golden age of travel by steam luxury day trip, embrace the luxury of the belmond british pullman.

Special steam-hauled journey

The iconic british pullman train, round-trip travel, lose yourself in the romance and magic of 1920s train travel on this spectacular steam-hauled journey..

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British Travel Award winners

Specialists in luxury rail holidays, tailor-made just for you, the golden age of travel by steam on the belmond british pullman includes:.

• Round-trip travel on the Belmond British Pullman luxury train
• Steam-hauled locomotive
• Welcome champagne reception
• Sumptuous five-course lunch
• Wine specially selected to accompany the seasonal menu
• Coffee, tea and petits fours

Dates: Various dates throughout the year – 2024

13th & 27th June

8th August 

12th & 26th September 

10th, 24th & 31st October 

7th & 14th November

Step back in time to the glamorous 1920s aboard the famous Belmond British Pullman train on this classic journey with a special steam hauled locomotive.

Departing from London Victoria at approximately 10.35 and returning the same day at 16:00. Confirmed timings will be supplied with your travel documents. 

Your Golden Age of Travel by Steam Journey

Your journey.

The Signature Journey – step back into a bygone age of travel aboard the Belmond British Pullman on this special steam powered journey which encapsulates the Golden Age of rail travel. 

Enjoy fine food and wine as you set off on a round-trip through Britain’s glorious countryside as the mighty, gleaming steam locomotive transports you in style.

You will be served a sumptuous five-course feast, prepared on board by the trains’ acclaimed chef and his expert team. The freshest produce is crafted into seasonal masterpieces, complemented by their sommelier’s choice of wines. The return journey takes you via Folkestone, giving you a glimpse of the sea, and Paddock Wood. Coffee is served before you make a dramatic, steam-hauled entrance into London Victoria. This is a true trip of a lifetime.

Further information

What to wear.

Smart day wear is appropriate. Please do not wear jeans or trainers.

About the Belmond British Pullman

The Belmond British Pullman is glorious in every respect. Originally conceived as “Palaces on Wheels” by George Mortimer Pullman, each lavishly appointed carriage is an original 1920s and 30s masterpiece from the golden age of rail travel.

Lovingly restored with breathtaking attention to detail, each car is a symphony of intricate marquetry, inlaid mosaic floors, sparkling crystal and beautiful Art Deco design.

Relax within deeply upholstered armchairs and celebrate the sovereignty of Britain’s gloriously unique heritage. Sip champagne and embrace an element of the world’s most romantic and exclusive adventure.

The Belmond British Pullman can carry up to 226 passengers and the carriages seat between 20 and 26 passengers in each. On board passengers are seated in either ‘coupé’s’ (small compartments seating up to four people) or in the open car mostly at tables for two. There is a limited number of single tables and tables for three in the open car.

Further information and booking

For information and booking Tel: 01347 825292 or email [email protected]

FURTHER INFORMATION

Art at the Belvedere Palace in Vienna

The Giant’s Causeway

Two iconic cities to explore

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British Pullman: Golden Age of Travel by Steam

• £ From £490
• Choose your preferred departure date
• Add hotel nights in London pre and post your day trip
• Add rail connections from your local station
• Add destinations and/or tours
• Round trip aboard the Belmond British Pullman from London Victoria
• Welcome Champagne reception onboard
• Five-course luncheon with half a bottle of wine per person
• Coffee, tea and petits fours

The beautiful carriages of the Belmond British Pullman will be waiting for you at London Victoria, each with its own unique history and design. Onboard, you’ll be shown to your armchair-style seats around a table set with starched white linen, specially commissioned British Pullman china and sparkling cut glassware. Sit back and watch the changing scenery of Kent pass by your window as your liveried steward serves you a welcome glass of Champagne. Lunch will be a seasonal menu of five courses, skilfully prepared by the onboard chefs and followed by coffee and petits fours.

If you’re celebrating a special occasion, why not buy a unique gift for your loved one which will be waiting for you when you board the train?

Gift options include the iconic Pullman teddy bear, a celebration cake, a hand-tied bunch of flowers or a pair of Pullman Champagne flutes. Just let us know if you would like to add one of these to your package. Prices available on request.

If you are coming down to London from far-afield, we can add hotel accommodation before and after your trip so that you can turn your British Pullman day trip into an exciting city break! We can offer a selection of hotels near to London Victoria station as featured below, including the beautiful Grosvenor Hotel (pictured) which actually has an exit onto the station concourse. Alternatively, you might prefer to stay in a different part of the city, depending on the places you would like to visit – and your departure station back to where you live. Just give us a call and let us help tailor make your trip.

Suggested Pre and Post Accommodation

This Grade II listed railway hotel boasts an entrance onto the station concourse at London Victoria station. Bedrooms are decorated in a classic style with Egyptian cotton bed linen, air-conditioning and flat-screen TVs. There is also a restaurant and bar on site as well as luggage storage. Buckingham Palace, St James’s Park and the River Thames are all within easy reach.

Located in Knightsbridge, the Belmond Cadogan is a luxury boutique hotel which dates back to 1887, but has recently been beautifully refurbished. Elegantly furnished bedrooms are equipped with LCD TVs, a DVD player and complimentary Wi-Fi internet access. The hotel also boasts a chic bar and lounge where you can dine on Great British classics.

The Goring is London’s last remaining family-run luxury hotel, awarded a royal warrant by the Queen in 2013. Just half a mile from Buckingham Palace, the hotel boasts spacious rooms with luxurious decor, some with private terraces. Guests can enjoy fine dining in the hotel restaurant and free access to the fitness-club. London Victoria is less than a 5-minute walk away from the hotel.

The Belgrave Hotel occupies four Grade II listed townhouses within walking distance of London Victoria and Pimlico underground station.  The bedrooms feature free Wi-Fi internet access, a flat-screen smart LED TV with HD channels and en suite bathrooms with rainfall showers. There is also a cozy lounge bar where you can enjoy a pre-dinner drink.

This price is based on the best fares on the British Pullman. Please note that prices increase as the train gets busier, so fares can vary quite substantially depending on the date of departure. If you travel during a peak period, particularly at short notice, then supplements may apply.

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CALL: +44 20 3640 8887

British Pullman - Clan Line 50th Anniversary Pullman to Bath

An exhilarating steam-hauled journey to the charming city of Bath

Step back in time with the British Pullman for their one-off Clan Line anniversary journey.

35028 Clan Line, is an iconic steam locomotive steeped in history which has been restored to its former glory by the Merchant Navy Locomotive Preservation Society. Retiring from British Rail service in the late '60s, Clan Line made a triumphant return to the rails in 1974, marking a significant milestone in its storied legacy.

Embark on a nostalgic expedition, departing from London's Victoria Station, embracing the elegance of Art Deco carriages and the opulence of a bygone era. As the train sets off, a delightful Bellini finds its way into your hand - an elegant start to an enchanting adventure.

Indulge in a delectable brunch while relishing the heartwarming nostalgia amidst the sights, sounds, and smells of the steam engine.

Following the original route taken half a century ago, your journey mirrors Clan Line's historic return to the mainline, making captivating stops at Salisbury and Bath. Upon arrival in Bath, the city welcomes you to explore its treasures at your leisure, whether it's the renowned Roman Baths, the Jane Austen Centre, or the scenic charms along the River Avon.

After a few hours of exploration, re-board the train for a champagne reception followed by a sumptuous four-course dinner, the perfect end to this unique escapade.

Included in this extra special British Pullman journey to Bath:

• Luxury round-trip travel on the British Pullman
• A chance to experience the iconic Clan Line steam engine
• A welcome sparkling Bellini
• Fine-dining silver service, a delicious three-course brunch on the outward journey and a morning tea and coffee.
• A sumptuous four-course dinner: British seasonal table d’hôte menu, including Great British cheeseboard, biscuits and chutneys.
• Wine specially selected by Belmond's sommelier to accompany the seasonal menu.
• Coffee, tea and petits fours.

The Clan Line steam journeys tend to sell out very quickly. If you would like to be added to the waiting list in case of a cancellation, please call us on 020 3640 8887

*Timings, routes and associated itineraries are subject to change, confirmed times will be displayed on your tickets

**Steam: Because steam engines are antique, there is always a small risk of them failing. In this situation, Belmond will reserve the right to substitute the steam locomotive with a replacement. If, for any reason, they are unable to source a suitable alternative, guests will be given options on how to proceed by Belmond.

Choose your date & book:

Book with a 25% deposit*, welcome aboard.

The Belmond British Pullman at a glance

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Why choose luxurytraintickets.com, price match, book with a deposit, complimentary concierge, human customer services, no hidden costs, journeys worldwide, terms and conditions.

This is a brief overview of our booking terms and conditions. Please note each individual operator has their own terms and conditions and by booking with LuxuryTrainTickets.com you are also accepting the operator's terms. For more information regarding operator terms and conditions please contact us or the operator directly. PLEASE NOTE: Receiving receipt of payment is not confirmation that your booking has been successful. We will contact you one to 10 working days after you have paid to confirm your booking, take further details of those travelling and send your itinerary. In the rare instance your booking cannot be fulfilled for any reason, such as the operator cancelling a journey or anything else beyond our control, we will be in touch with alternative options or will refund your payment. All prices shown are for one adult ticket. Sleeper journeys are based on two adults sharing accommodation. Single occupancy of cabins may incur additional charge. Prices are set by the operator and may change at short notice. We endeavour to ensure prices are always accurate and update our own website as soon as possible. All timings and details of included tours and activities are for guidance only and will only be confirmed in your travel documents that will be emailed to you 7 days before departure. For any questions including discounts, offers or group pricing, please contact [email protected]. As an authorised ticketing agent of luxury train journeys, we may need to pass some of your details (such as your name and dietary requirements) on to the train operators in order to complete your booking. This is done so the operators can add you to their guest list, send you your tickets and ensure the meals served to you onboard meet your dietary requirements. By booking with LuxuryTrainTickets.com, you are agreeing that you allow such necessary details to be shared with the operators under the cause of legitimate interest. If you have any questions, please contact us by phone or email [email protected]. There are a limited number of private tables and cabin types onboard. While we keep our website updated regularly, there may be occasions when private tables or cabin types become fully booked meaning we are unable to fulfil your booking requirements. Should this be the case, we will contact you to discuss alternative options and refund any payments made. We have the right to refuse the request of a deposit when a journey is scheduled to depart in less than 16 weeks. If you choose to book with a deposit you must pay the remaining balance in full 15 weeks before departure at the latest. Should you fail to pay the remaining balance 15 weeks prior to departure, you will forfeit your deposit and your booking. Deposits are accepted by request. Most journeys require a 25% deposit to secure a booking however some specialist journeys do require a 50% deposit. Please contact us for confirmation. Tickets are sent electronically around 5 days before departure. You will not receive tickets or any form of 'gift pack' in the post. This is in an attempt to reduce paper use and do our part for the environment. By booking a journey you agree to these terms, the terms set out by each individual operator and our cancellation policy . Please contact LuxuryTrainTickets.com for further terms or for clarification.

THE CHATSWORTH PULLMAN

We are proud to present perhaps the ultimate day out with tornado.

Take your seat aboard the British Pullman, a Belmond Train, as we visit Chatworth on a day filled with elegance and grandeur!

THURSDAY 19TH SEPTEMBER

YOUR TICKET INCLUDES

Round-trip travel aboard the British Pullman Luxury Train Steam hauled by Tornado throughout Welcome sparkling bellini Fine dining silver service Delicious three course brunch on the outward journey Late morning coffee, tea and biscuits Luxury Coach Transfer and Admission to Chatsworth House and Gardens Champagne reception back on board Sumptuous four-course dinner: British seasonal table d’hôte menu, including Great British cheeseboard, biscuits and chutney Half a bottle of wine per person Coffee, tea and petits fours

Book Online Below

Call Our Booking Office on 01325488215

What to Expect

Join us at London Victoria station and step on board the British Pullman, sister train to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, and experience the fine-dining experience like no other. Your liveried steward will help settle you at your table, which is set with fine linen and bespoke tableware. Take time to admire the magnificent marquetry and art deco flourishes of your vintage carriage. As your journey out of the capital begins, your steward will take care of all your needs.

Sip champagne, marvelling at the ever-changing views through the window and the plumes of steam trailing through the sky. Read about the train’s history and imagine the famous passengers who once enjoyed its opulent interiors.

Fine Dining

Savour a fabulous brunch at a table set with pristine white linen, specially commissioned china and sparkling cut glassware. Sit back and relax as the liveried stewards take care of your every need. Enjoy the changing views through your picture window as the train makes its way north.

On returning to the train your fine-dining experience continues with a champagne reception. This is followed by a gastronomic four-course dinner complemented by our sommelier’s choice of wine.

Our Journey

Our train departs London Victoria and immediately crossed the Thames before taking a route through the west of the city. We then head north on the old Midland route via St Albans where the metropolis gives way to open countryside. 

We run on through Bedfordshire and into Leicester, passing through the city's station as we continue on through a mix of industrial towns. We then venture out into more rural Derbyshire before we arrive into Chesterfield to take the short connection to Chatsworth House. 

The Chatsworth Pullman is steam hauled throughout and the return journey follows the outward route.

Unconfirmed timings:

London Victoria: 08:46/21:30hrs

Chesterfield (for Chatsworth): 13:15/17:00hrs

CHATSWORTH HOUSE & GARDENS

Your ticket includes a guided tour of Chatsworth House, and time to explore the beautiful gardens.

Famous for its rich history, waterworks, sculptures, and Victorian rock garden, there is plenty to explore in the 105-acre Chatsworth Garden. 

Chatsworth House meanwhile is renowned for its art, landscape and hospitality, and has evolved through the centuries to reflect the tastes, passions and interests of succeeding generations of the Devonshire family. You will discover works of art that span 4,000 years, from ancient Roman and Egyptian sculpture, and masterpieces by Rembrandt, Reynolds and Veronese, to work by outstanding modern artists, including Lucian Freud, Edmund de Waal and David Nash. There are over 25 rooms to explore, including the magnificent Painted Hall, regal State Rooms, restored Sketch Galleries and atmospheric Sculpture Gallery.

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60163 TORNADO

2007 PRINCE OF WALES

Important notice.

We are moving to our new works this week and our office will be closed during this time and we will not be available to answer any calls or emails. Online donations and bookings will be unaffected.

0800 122 33 64

Belmond British Pullman 2024 Departure Date Schedule

Full 2024 schedule now published (Page Updated: 23rd February 2024)

All 2024 Day Trips now available to book aboard the Belmond British Pullman can be found on this page.

The Belmond British Pullman forms an integral part of the iconic London to Venice Simplon-Orient-Express trip. When not on this route, the train is able to offer a taste of the “Orient Express” with a variety of interesting day trips. All trips depart London Victoria.

• Trips from £400 per person
• Offers Available
• Selected trips Steam Hauled
• Featured Trips
• All Trips by Date

Departure Dates of Featured Trips

MURDER MYSTERY LUNCH

Murder mystery lunch dates.

• 9th February 2024
• 16th February 2024
• 23rd February 2024
• 1st March 2024
• 15th March 2024
• 23rd March 2024
• 29th March 2024
• 5th April 2024
• 12th April 2024
• 19th April 2024
• 26th April 2024
• 4th May 2024
• 10th May 2024
• 8th June 2024
• 21st June 2024
• 6th July 2024
• 12th July 2024
• 26th July 2024
• 9th August 2024
• 17th August 2024
• 23rd August 2024
• 14th September 2024
• 20th September 2024
• 27th September 2024
• 4th October 2024
• 18th October 2024
• 1st November 2024
• 8th November 2024
• 15th November 2024

HISTORIC BATH

Historic bath dates.

• 14th February 2024
• 17th February 2024
• 28th February 2024
• 13th March 2024
• 27th March 2024
• 7th April 2024
• 17th April 2024
• 24th April 2024
• 15th May 2024
• 12th June 2024
• 17th July 2024
• 14th August 2024
• 4th September 2024
• 16th October 2024
• 30th October 2024
• 20th November 2024

GRAND NATIONAL

Grand national date.

• 13th April 2024

HIGHCLERE CASTLE

Highclere castle dates.

• 1st May 2024
• 11th September 2024

MOTHER’S DAY

Mother’s day date.

• 10th March 2024

Le Manoir Aux Quat’saisons

• 21st February 2024
• 26th June 2024
• 13th November 2024
• 11th December 2024

STEAM HAULED

Steam hauled journeys.

• 11th May 2024
• 30th May 2024
• 13th June 2024
• 27th June 2024
• 18th July 2024
• 8th August 2024
• 22nd August 2024
• 12th September 2024
• 26th September 2024
• 10th October 2024
• 24th October 2024
• 31st October 2024
• 7th November 2024
• 14th November 2024

Belmond British Pullman 2024 by Date

2025 British Pullman Departure Dates

DOM PERIGNON DINNER

Dinner with Vintage Champagne aboard the British Pullman

BELMOND BRITISH PULLMAN

Find out about this historic train

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Privacy Overview

• - Service on Board
• - General Information
• - London Hotel
• - Gift Vouchers
• - Fine Dining
• - Historic Homes & Gardens
• - Towns and Cities
• - Steam Hauled Excursions
• - Special Events
• - Celebrations
• - February 2024
• - March 2024
• - April 2024
• - June 2024
• - July 2024
• - August 2024
• - September 2024
• - October 2024
• - November 2024
• - December 2024
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The Belmond British Pullman Calendar 2024.

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• Booking Conditions

Tel: 01438 715050

• Booking Classes
• THE BLYTH & TYNE OR BEAMISH OPEN AIR MUSEUM Saturday 8th June 2024
• THE ANCIENT KINGDOM Saturday 15th June 2024
• THE RETURN OF THE JOLLY FISHERMAN 125 SPECIAL Saturday 22nd June 2024
• THE WESTBURY WIZZO Saturday 6th July 2024
• THE NORTH WEST FREIGHTER Sunday 14th July 2024
• THE DEAN FOREST RAILWAY Saturday 27th July 2024
• THE WATERSIDE WANDERER Sunday 28th July 2024
• BY ROUTEMASTER TO THE LOST VILLAGE OF IMBER Saturday 17th August 2024
• THE BLUEBELL RAILWAY Saturday 21st September 2024
• DIARY DATES SUMMER AND AUTUMN 2024
• UK Railtours Gift Voucher Click to Choose Value

THE CLAN LINE 50th ANNIVERSARY PULLMAN

Saturday 27 April 2024

Timings now confirmed

UK Railtours have been associated closely with the MNLPS and 35028 Clan Line for many years. She was our founder John’s favourite steam locomotive and hauled the memorial John Farrow Salute railtour to commemorate his life. For the last couple of years she has been undergoing extensive overhaul, and we’re delighted that her return to the main line will be hauling the British Pullman on the 50th anniversary of her first main line run in  preservation!

Clan Line pictured at London Victoria following The John Farrow Salute in 2021

Built in 1948, 35028 Clan Line is an iconic steam locomotive. After operating out of London for nearly 20 years, she was retired from British Rail service and bought by MNLPS (the Merchant Navy Locomotive Preservation Society) to be restored to glory. The engine made her public return to the mainline on 27 April 1974, running from Basingstoke to Westbury and back. At that time, a “steam ban” prevented Clan Line from operating between London and Basingstoke, but on your journey today you can enjoy the full, unexpurgated version of the original route, plus an added scenic section to Bath.

Fifty years ago, when traditional Pullmans were being phased out, no one thought such a beautiful train would again grace the UK rail network. But with the elegant umber and cream carriages of British Pullman in tow, Clan Line heads a true return to the heyday of rail travel and the glory of steam – one we invite you to cherish on this celebratory journey.

The interior of one of the unique Pullman carriages

Board the British Pullman at London’s Victoria Station and settle into your art deco carriage. Soon, the whistle blows, the train departs and a sparking Bellini is in your hand. The adventure has begun!

Heading out of London to join the former Atlantic Coast Express route at Wimbledon, you may notice crowds of onlookers smiling and waving at the train. Heralded by puffs of smoke, the sounds and smells of the engine evoke memories of a time when the journey was as magical as the destination. Savour a delicious brunch alongside the heart-warming nostalgia.

Passing Basingstoke, Clan Line reprises her original route of exactly 50 years ago to the day, when she returned triumphantly to the mainline. A pause at Salisbury to take on water gives you time to admire this hardworking locomotive. Proceeding onwards through Warminster and Westbury, you reach the World Heritage city of Bath.

The historic public baths of Bath

On arrival, the city is yours to explore at leisure – though if you have your sights set on a ticketed attraction, such as the Roman Baths or Jane Austen Centre, we recommend booking your own tickets in advance. Or simply stroll around the inviting streets and shops, admiring the Abbey, majestic Pulteney Bridge and the River Avon. Comfortable shoes are advised.

Please make your way back to the station to be on the platform ten minutes before the scheduled departure time. Shortly after boarding you’ll find yourself with a glass of chilled champagne in hand, which is soon followed by a sensational four-course dinner.

Still full of steam, Clan Line retraces the outward route via Westbury before facing a stiff climb to the summit at Upton Scudamore. After pausing again for water at Salisbury, she continues onwards via Woking, Staines and Hounslow to London Victoria, where your unique adventure ends.

Your Pullman fare includes a welcome Bellini, a three-course brunch on the outward journey and a morning tea or coffee, a four-course dinner on the return journey accompanied by wine selected by the sommelier.  Please note that this is an excursion arranged and operated by Belmond British Pullman, on which UK Railtours have placed a group booking. Our usual terms and conditions apply to your booking. 

Confirmed Timings  

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Coconut Lands

Blog and store for slow travellers

Travel in luxurious vintage style on the Belmond British Pullman train

Would you like to dress up, step back in time and be treated like a VIP?

This post was originally published in September 2019 and has been updated.

Your vintage carriage awaits you! The British Pullman is a train of eleven beautifully-restored carriages, each with its own individual design and character.

Originally, the train took passengers from London Victoria station to the English channel, where they would travel by ferry across to France in order to board the famous Orient Express train. The elegant Pullman carriages, with their famous cream and umber livery, ensured that Orient Express passengers from London enjoyed consistent standards of luxury throughout their intercontinental travels.

Decline and revival

Interest in luxury train travel declined during the post-war decades in Europe. It took an American businessman with a big dream and a fat wallet to bring back the Orient Express experience in its full former glory.

James Sherwood, owner of a marine leasing company called Sea Containers, spent £20 million on tracking down, buying and restoring 27 old carriages. One of his finds had been adapted for transporting pigeons, while another had been a brothel in Limoges!

James re-launched the London-Venice service in 1982, under the brand name of the Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express (VSOE). When the British Pullman wasn’t taking Orient Express passengers to Folkestone for the cross-channel trip, it was used for days out to various picturesque locations such as cathedral cities like Bath and Salisbury, or afternoon tea trips around Kent.

Sea Containers and the VSOE

Trains are my absolute favourite mode of travel, and I was very excited by this re-launch. During the 1980s I was working in London, close to the South Bank where Sea Containers House is located. Sometimes I would walk along the Thames during my lunch break, and head past Sea Containers House, intrigued by the story of its founder and fellow rail enthusiast.

In those days, the building was rather flashy, an impressive plate glass edifice overlooking the river and decorated with ostentatious gold balls. Its nameplate even resembled that of a railway locomotive.

Today the building is a luxury hotel and the gold balls are long gone, but the Sea Containers name remains.

During my South Bank days I also made the occasional hop over the Thames to Victoria station to watch the train arrive or depart, which was very exciting although I longed to be on board! A visit from my parents, who lived in northern England, gave me the perfect excuse to buy some tickets. I knew they would love the experience.

Champagne commuters

Our day began early, leaving my home in south west London at my usual work time with all the other commuters. But this day was different. As we walked through the concourse at Victoria, watching all the workers buying their coffees and Burger King breakfast buns, I couldn’t help but gloat a tiny little bit. Instead of heading to the office, I was going to be served with smoked salmon, scrambled eggs and champagne.

My parents, who had dressed smartly at my request, didn’t know they were going on the British Pullman until we arrived at VSOE HQ on platform 2, and the surprise was revealed. What a fun moment that was!

Each carriage is demarcated by a hand-painted sign and crest, and has its own assigned steward. After checking in, we were shown to our carriage, which was called Ione, and introduced to our steward Kevin.

My mother, who seemed to hit it off rather well with Kevin, adored the plush upholstery and textiles, crisp linen tablecloths, silver cutlery, fine bone china and crystal glasses. Dad, a precision engineer and toolmaker, loved the intricate marquetry, mahogany fittings, ornate brass luggage racks, mosaic tiles and stained glass in the bathrooms.

Needless to say, food, drink and service were impeccable throughout the day.  We were encouraged to explore the train and visit other carriages, to appreciate the various different styles of decoration. Some are more ornate than others, and some are more recognizably art deco than others.

Souvenirs and merchandise were available for those who wished to take a memory home. It was a fantastic day and we all loved the experience.

Wave like the royals

Since then I’ve enjoyed several other trips on the British Pullman over the years, including steam-hauled specials. The train always attracts attention wherever it goes, but a steam engine at the front brings the train-spotters out in large numbers all along the route.

Sometimes, when still within the London area, the train is passed at close quarters by local trains. It’s fun to see bored commuters do a double-take when they spot the British Pullman going past! Staring eyes and open mouths are not uncommon, from those who haven’t seen the train before. Passers-by on the streets often wave. It all adds to the feeling of being a VIP for the day.

The Belmond era

The Sea Containers company no longer exists in its original form, but there are one or two descendants of the company – one of which is Belmond, the current operator of the British Pullman. Fortunately they have upheld the same standards and traditions.

Some rules have had to be updated for the times. Blissfully, guests are requested not to use mobile phones in the carriages – heaven! Period dress is not necessary, although it’s fun to do if you feel inclined; smart day wear is all that is required – no jeans, T shirts or trainers.

destinations

An exciting development announced in 2022 was the refurbishment of the carriage named Cygnus by film director Wes Anderson. From the photos I’ve seen, it looks amazing and I can’t wait for the chance to travel in it!

Today, the train still takes VSOE passengers to the Kent coast for their cross-channel ferry and some day trippers for Kentish cream teas. You can also enjoy days out to grand homes such as Sandringham, Longleat, Blenheim Palace, Waddeston Manor, Chatsworth and Highclere Castle in Hampshire, where Downton Abbey was filmed.

Alternatively, you can visit great British cities such as Brighton, Canterbury, Bath, Winchester or Bristol. My most recent trip on the train was to Cambridge and Ely, with my husband. It was a very enjoyable day. Our group was treated to private tours of King’s College Chapel and Ely Cathedral, which we were taken to by coach.

There are also themed trips, such as murder mystery lunches, the great British seaside, golden age of rail travel (sometimes steam-hauled), seasonal and sporting events and culinary indulgences. Sometimes, famous guest chefs will host lunch or dinner on board. These are very popular trips and tend to sell out fast.

For my next trip on the British Pullman, I would like to try a festive occasion, such as a Christmas or New Year lunch. I’m sure they would be magical. After that, how about the ultimate trip – to Folkestone, then across the English Channel to board the luxurious VSOE. Imagine! But this is where things have started to get a little interesting…

A french rival

In a twist worthy of an Agatha Christie novel, a researcher working on behalf of the French Railways (SNCF) managed to locate some of the original Orient Express carriages in a remote Polish siding, where they had been for around 10 years. They are now back in France under an extensive restoration programme led by Parisian architect Maxime D’Angeac.

The original Art Deco marquetry and Lalique glass panels are said to have survived well. How exciting is that! The refurbished train will represent the ultimate in luxury and comfort and will be operated under the name Orient Express by French hospitality company Accor. Originally intended to launch in time for the Paris Olympics in 2024, the train is now expected to begin its first services in 2025.

The train is but one of Accor’s plans for the new brand. They’re also launching a vintage train in Italy, the Orient Express La Dolce Vita , in 2024, along with a luxury hotel chain.

These are certainly interesting times, especially for vintage train fans! It seems that environmental consciousness has led to a renewed interest in railways. I can’t wait to see the new Orient Express trains, and any other vintage services that might be brought back to life in the future.

James Sherwood – a tribute

James Sherwood passed away in May 2020, and will be remembered as an irrepressible entrepreneur, bon vivant and Anglophile. Obituaries recalling his colourful life appeared around the world, including in the Guardian , New York Times and Washington Post .

I will always be grateful to him for bringing the wonderful British Pullman carriages back to life, showcasing British engineering and craftsmanship at their best and giving my family and me some of our most treasured experiences and memories. And for brightening up so many of my lunch breaks! I’m certain without the trailblazing example of James and his restoration efforts, others might never have taken the leap of re-launching other wonderful vintage trains.

If you like heritage trains, you might enjoy my post Steam trains of England – 7 of my favourites .

© Coconut Lands. Not to be reproduced without permission.

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I love to travel by train, but the history and opulence make this so much more special. And how fun for your parents.

I am fond of trains and the human stories that are made in every journey – that includes your parent’s happy moments. What joy! #flyingbaguette

Some interesting history here. I’m sure trying to locate all those train cars was a bit like a treasure hunt!

I prefer train travel too and would love to go on the British Pullman. What a memorable experience you had and how lovely that you got to share it with your mum and dad. Will definitely look into it when we make it back to England.

What a fantastic experience – a bit of a pamper but also a step back in time. I will absolutely be looking into this for a special occasion!

I’d love to do it again – very indulgent and it’s good fun to dress up once in a while 🙂

I’d love to go on this! Where I used to live there were a couple of old Pullman coaches turned into a cafe on the tracks and I was fortunate enough to get to spend time inside the Orient Express (not traveling, just looking around it) and I so enjoyed it!

Wow, I’d love to see the Orient Express, or even better, travel on it! I’m planning a future post about my Great Railways bucket list, and the VSOE will definitely be on it! Thanks so much for your feedback.

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