Belmond British Pullman embarks on a Kentish countryside voyage
Image courtesy of the Belmond British Pullman
The Belmond British Pullman; a train journey like no other, as soon as you step aboard prepare to embark on a journey through the Golden Age of rail travel.
The train's restored art deco carriages carry an ageless refinement as it sits on Platform two at Victoria station.
Guests mingle among one another as a three-piece band plays 45-minutes before the train sets off; sparkling wine reception awaits, setting the tone for the impending culinary excursion.
Image courtesy of the Belmond British Pullman
As the name suggests, the British Pullman, A Belmond Train, is the British sibling of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. The excursion offers the chance to channel your inner adventurer via a signature day trip featuring decadent contemporary British dishes served aboard.
Prepare for world-class service, unparalleled luxury, and exquisite fine dining, all the while savouring the extraordinary flavours of Kent.
Image courtesy of the Belmond British Pullman
Dishes aboard the journey through the Kentish countryside include a five-course menu proposed by chef Jon Freeman.
From delicious asparagus, cherries and apples to Romney Marsh lamb and Whitstable oysters, each delicacy is grown with a devotion to quality by suppliers exclusively chosen by Freeman.
Each wine that accompanies the menu is selected by a Belmond sommelier from local vineyards and wineries, benefitting from the chalky nature of Kent’s soil akin to that found in France’s Champagne region.
Image courtesy of the Belmond British Pullman
Inspired by Kent’s finest quality produce, the menu changes according to what’s in season.
Each wine sampled throughout the travel experience has a connection to the well-established vineyards guests will be set to travel past, cementing the bond between the Pullman’s onboard experience and the farmlands it circles past.
All this takes place in the beautifully restored carriage of the train, among its revived marquetry, crystal glass and deep upholstered armchairs.
You’ll loop into the countryside, taking in the fruitful orchards, verdant landscapes and historical architecture, and retrace back (London Victoria - Kent countryside - London Victoria) in to the City.
Image courtesy of the Belmond British Pullman
The journey and ever-changing landscape will captivate guests and invite a sense of calm and serenity, prompting us to slow down and absorb the beauty of England’s most treasured vistas.
To experience the wonderful synergy between gastronomic experience and stunning surroundings, book the Belmond British Pullman’s ‘Garden of England’ voyage across the Kent countryside on Thursday, 4th July, 2024.
But why not make it a weekend to remember?
If you’re travelling from abroad, from the countryside, or are based in the City, why not make your Belmond excursion last that little bit longer?
We’ve collated a Société luxury list featuring the best hotel to rest your head for the evening, the finest dining experiance to be had in the Ciy, and the most opulent bar to enjoy a night cap after your train journey across the Kentish coast.
REST
Haymarket Hotel
The Haymarket Hotel in London, a member of the Firmdale Hotels group founded by Kit and Tim Kemp, delivers a truly exceptional experience in the city.
Kit Kemp MBE is not only founder of Firmdale Hotels but is also a world-renowned interior designer and creative director of Kit Kemp Design Studio.
Being a boutique hotel in a large, impersonal city works well for the hotel. Staff are approachable, quick to help and always readily available to suggest personalised places to see, things to do and great events happening around London.
The Haymarket Hotel sits on the corner of Haymarket street and Suffolk Place in the heart of London’s Theatre District - a prime location just steps away from iconic landmarks such as Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery.
Image courtesy of Haymarket Hotel
Its proximity to the West End theatres makes it an ideal choice for those looking to catch a show. Additionally, the hotel is within walking distance of Covent Garden, Piccadilly Circus, and several exclusive restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.
Deep inside Haymarket, the interiors showcase Kemp’s world of wonder - delightful mixes of contemporary and traditional elements, with bold colours, eclectic furnishings, and bespoke artwork, creating a visually stunning environment.
The lobby, with its striking chandelier and inviting seating areas, sets the tone for the rest of the hotel. The Haymarket boasts 50 individually designed rooms and suites, each featuring unique blends of luxury and comfort. Rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, featuring high ceilings, large windows, and an eclectic array of fabrics.
Timely and personal room service make the stay all that more comfortable. The bathrooms are equally impressive, with chic marble finishes, walk-in showers, and include a range of Kemp’s premium toiletries.
One of the standout features of the Haymarket Hotel is its state-of-the-art facilities; the hotel’s 18-meter indoor swimming pool is hidden on the lower ground floor and is a tantalising space. It accommodates up to 220 people and often hosts glamorous events beneath a ceiling of hundreds of optic lights installed by artist and designer, Martin Richman.
Whether it’s arranging tickets to a West End show, recommending local attractions, or accommodating special requests, the hotel’s concierge team excels in providing personalised service; if you request it, you wont just get a splash of alternative milk, you’ll get a beautiful glass bottle full.
After a long trip aboard the Belmond, treat yourself to the sights of Kit Kemps extraordinary hotel. An unforgettable experience awaits.
1 Suffolk Place, Westminster Borough, London, SW1Y 4HX, United Kingdom
DRINK
A DECADENT 1930s-INSPIRED LIBATION
Image courtesy of The Delaunay
Before you settle in for the night after dining at Berner’s Tavern, take a detour (albeit long one) on your way up to your room and drop by The Delaunay.
Ensconced between the iconic Drury Lane and bustling thoroughfare of The Strand, in the heart of London's theatre district, the all-day brasserie and bar count Aldwych Theatre, Theatre Royal Drury Lane and Novello Theatre as neighbours.
The brasserie has just unveiled an exciting new cocktail menu celebrating the 'golden age' of 1930s stagecraft. Drawing inspiration from the glamour of 1930s theatre and its leading stars, the menu features drinks such as Hay Fever, Rio Rita, and My Fair Lady.
All cocktails on the menu are carefully crafted and showcase a selection of inventive drinks inspired by the glamour of 1930s productions and starlets.
My Fair Lady is adorned with beautiful floral motifs atop egg white foam under a creme de violette liqueur complemented with gin, lemon and strawberry.
If that doesn’t whet the palate, the Rio Rita, named after the play produced by Broadway impresario, Florenz Ziegfeld, packs a more sour punch with an expert blend of Don Julio Blanco Tequila, a sweet sauternes, jasmine, lime and mint. The Magic Flute, an homage to Mozart’s enchanting musical comedy, is crafted with Hennessy VS Cognac, Mozart white chocolate, espresso and chocolate bitters.
Image courtesy of The Delaunay
The Hay Fever blends Chase pink grapefruit and pomelo gin with Italicus, Campari, and rose and grapefruit cordial, evoking summer nights, romance, and adventure.
Should you wish to take in a show whilst in London, The Delaunay is the perfect destination for a pre and post-show drink.
DINE
Image courtesy of The London EDITION
Berner’s Tavern
A guilded Fitzrovia bolthole, Berner’s Tavern is Atherton’s sixth addition to the UK dining scene and he does not disappoint.
The baroque ballroom features intricately molded ceilings and walls adorned with rich, gold-framed artwork. Every inch of its truffle-hued surface is occupied, and at its center hangs a grand chandelier gleaming with gilded splendour.
On the menu, Atherton’s quirky British cooking includes dishes like Herdwick lamb rump complemented with smoked baba ghanoush and wild garlic leaf, the Tavern’s famous mac and cheese, and a hearty Sunday roast.
Berners Tavern stands as a testament to the seamless fusion of history and modernity. Its stunning decor, characterised by high ceilings, intricate detailing, and an array of artwork, creates an atmosphere that is both grand and inviting.
The culinary delights crafted by its talented chefs make dining here a truly exceptional experience. Whether you're savoring a leisurely breakfast, enjoying a sumptuous dinner, or simply soaking in the ambiance, Berners Tavern offers a glimpse into the past while providing all the comforts of contemporary dining.
This iconic venue continues to enchant guests, solidifying its place as a must-visit destination in the heart of London.
