The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is the most luxurious train in the world, famous for transporting passengers in opulent Art Deco style across historic cities like Paris, Venice and Istanbul. But many travellers in the UK ask what is the UK version of luxury rail Travel?
The answer is the Belmond British Pullman, a beautifully restored, luxury train that brings the golden age of travel to life in the UK. With fine dining, white-gloved train staff and immersive day trips through the English countryside.
The British Pullman
It is operated by Belmond, and is the official UK sister train to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. It runs from London Victoria station, offering return luxury rail experiences across England in beautifully restored 1920s and 1930s Pullman carriages.
Each luxury train coach has original marquetry, art-deco interior design and air conditioning, a seamless blend of vintage charm and modern comfort. From the moment you step aboard to the final return journey, the atmosphere is a bygone era of elegant rail trip.
A Brief History of the Famous Train
The British Pullman coaches were introduced in the 1920s and quickly became a symbol of prestige in British rail travel. These original carriages once carried royalty, dignitaries and celebrities. Some survived wartime bombing, while others transported Winston Churchill or members of the royal family.
Restored to their former glory, these carriages now host fellow passengers looking for a premium, nostalgic escape. Every journey is a tribute to the heritage of luxury trains in Great Britain.
Unlike the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express which travels across Europe, the it stays in the UK and offers day trips to beautiful locations including:
- Bath – Georgian architecture and Roman baths
- Brighton – A vibrant coastal town
- Canterbury – Famous cathedral
- The Cotswolds – Classic English countryside with stone villages
- Chatsworth House and Sandringham – Grand stately homes and beautiful gardens
These luxury train journeys include reserved seats and most routes have a themed itinerary with dining on board. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries or a special occasion with a touch of glamour.
From the UK to Europe: The Combined Journey
You can start your luxury train adventure in the UK with a British Pullman journey from London Victoria to Folkestone. After a private transfer through the Channel Tunnel you’ll board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in Calais to continue your outward journey into Europe. This combined trip offers two train rides in beautifully curated settings for those who want the full luxury train journey.
Is Food Free on the Luxury Train?
Yes! all meals are included in your luxury train tickets. But the dining is so much more than just included; it’s a highlight. Guests enjoy:
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Afternoon tea and snacks
- Continental breakfast in your cabin
The cuisine is inspired by the regions the train travels through with regional specialties and fine wines prepared by expert chefs. In the dining car passengers often dress up for an evening of luxury.
On the British Pullman similar attention is given to food. Depending on the trip guests may enjoy:
- Dinner with champagne reception
- Christmas lunch or seasonal tasting menus
- Afternoon teas with fine pastries and tea blends
Everything is served with exceptional service by the train staff. Nothing is too much trouble.
How Long Can You Stay on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express?
Most luxury train journeys are 1 to 2 nights long, but longer special journeys are available. Here are some popular options:
- London to Venice – 1 night
- Paris to Venice – 1 night
- Venice to Istanbul – 5 nights
- Grand Tour of Europe – Up to 6 nights
Each night on board is an event with gourmet meals, dressing for dinner, socialising in the bar car, and watching the stunning views go by. Not a hotel train for long stays, the VSOE offers a deeply immersive luxury experience.
The British Pullman doesn’t operate overnight, but it’s often part of a full package that includes the European leg via the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
Why the British Pullman?
It is for those who want a taste of the ultimate luxury train experience without leaving the UK. It offers:
- Beautiful English countryside
- Step aboard a luxury train of the golden age
- Gourmet fine dining and welcome champagne reception
- Impeccable design and en suite bathroom comfort in select carriages
- Seamless connection to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
- Opportunities to visit historic towns and special occasions like Christmas lunch tours
Britain has many luxury trains, but the British Pullman is the ultimate choice for those seeking vintage glamour and effortless luxury.
Book Your Luxury Train Journey Today
Ready to experience the magic of the rails? Discover the world of luxury train experience, starting with the British Pullman from London Victoria, or go international with the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Enjoy fine wines, gourmet meals, stunning scenery and first-class service, all aboard two of the most famous trains in the world.
