It's Like a Moving Palace

Britain, which marked historically significant events such as Queen Elizabeth's 60th anniversary of accession and the Summer London Olympics in 2012, was a year of unprecedented attention, following Prince William and Catherine Middleton's royal wedding last year. The "Diamond Jubilee" ceremony in June this year, celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Queen's accession, carried on the tradition and prestige of the British Royal Family into the modern era. The sight of about 1,000 ships and boats sailing on the River Thames was a true symbol of royal culture, embodying the ultimate in dynamism and elegance.

However, the charm of Britain, and the reason it continues to be admired and loved by people worldwide, lies in its constant pursuit of innovation while cherishing its traditional aspects. For instance, a brief look around London reveals modern buildings that were once unimaginable, such as "The Shard," Europe's tallest building, and the "ArcelorMittal Orbit," a distinctive twisted observation tower built for the Olympics.

The "terrible British food" of the past is also gradually changing. The dining industry has begun to refine itself, and in recent years, the number of restaurants earning stars in the Michelin Guide has been increasing. And of course, hotels, too, have evolved into modern establishments over time. Even prestigious, traditional hotels, favored by royalty and politicians, have not forgotten to embrace new challenges.

In this series, we will explore the captivating allure of Britain under the theme "A Journey Through Britain's Royal Culture of Tradition and Innovation," divided into four installments. The first installment takes us on a journey through the British countryside aboard the luxurious "British Pullman."



The history of railways in Britain began with the steam locomotive developed by British inventor Richard Trevithick in the early 19th century. The "Orient Express," a luxury long-distance train connecting Paris and Istanbul, the gateway to Asia, began operation in 1883. The train, adorned with the utmost luxury, was called a "moving palace" and continues to fascinate many travelers to this day.



The historic train, the British Pullman, which races through Britain as part of the Orient Express, is a popular train that departs from London, tours the Kent countryside, and returns after a journey of 274 km in approximately 4.5 hours.

The departure station is London's Victoria Station. The British Pullman's exclusive waiting lounge is located next to platforms 1-2, away from the bustling platforms of regular trains. At reception, your ticket, presented in a leather case, is handed over. The lounge is bustling with passengers eagerly awaiting the train's departure, and women dressed in fashions from the same era as the train add a vibrant touch to the atmosphere. It's as if the spirit of the Orient Express, which once captivated ladies and sent them on journeys to exotic lands, has been preserved.



The train, upon arrival, consists of a total of 11 carriages, all with reserved seating. Each carriage seats 20 to 26 passengers, and you can choose to travel in a private four-person compartment or in an open salon with two-person tables. The carriages currently in use are original 1920s-1930s models, meticulously restored, allowing you to enjoy the journey in the luxurious atmosphere of that era. As you search for your carriage, guided by the ticket received at reception, you'll be greeted by stewards in crisp white uniforms. Led into the compartment, you'll soon feel like a British gentleman. With the sounding of the whistle, the train slowly departs at precisely 11:45 AM, leaving platform one.

A Journey Where Anyone Can Be a Princess

Each of the 11 carriages has its own name and story. For example, the Perseus carriage was designated as a royal train and was used as Winston Churchill's funeral train in 1965. The Zena carriage also appeared in scenes from the film "Agatha," which features Agatha Christie, the author of "Murder on the Orient Express," as the protagonist.



The carriage we rode this time, named Gwen, was once a dining car that traveled between London and Brighton. In the 1950s, it was used by Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. The interior, rich with Victorian style, exudes a sense of grandeur and the train's connection to the British Royal Family is evident throughout.



Shortly after departure, the stewards begin pouring champagne into glasses, exchanging greetings with each table. The train soon leaves the city of London, and the view from the windows transforms into a serene countryside landscape. The British Pullman heads southeast through England. On the pristine white tablecloths, exquisite silverware and sparkling crystal glasses are elegantly set. A full-course meal prepared by skilled chefs is served, accompanied by fine wines selected by the sommelier. The main course is a salmon sauté with port wine sauce, and as time flows leisurely, a sophisticated and elegant culinary experience unfolds.

After enjoying lunch, a marching band greets us at a stop along the way. Fresh oysters and champagne are served, and the scene shifts from the opulent carriages to an energetic and lively celebration on the platform, reminiscent of the golden age of continental railways. It's not just about elegance; it's also about letting loose and swaying to the music.—This is one of the reasons why the British Pullman is so popular: the ability to enjoy such a journey.




As the festivities conclude, the train begins its journey back to London's Victoria Station. The British Pullman, having completed its 274 km tour of the southeastern English countryside in approximately 4.5 hours, arrives at its destination at 4:40 PM, slowing to a gentle pace. The journey aboard the jewel-like amber and cream luxury train passes by as quickly and beautifully as watching a masterpiece unfold.

The British Pullman offers a day trip from London. Why not dress up and embark on a journey aboard this luxurious train, beloved by Queen Elizabeth herself, and indulge in exquisite cuisine and breathtaking scenery?

VisitBritain Official Website
www.visitbritian.com



VisitBritain Online Shop
http://www.visitbritainshop.com



British Pullman
Price: From 40,000 JPY (for The Golden Age of Travel route)

Inquiries in Japan: Orient Express

Tel. 03-3265-1200
http://www.orient-express.co.jp/uktrain

Continued to "Chapter 2: Enjoying a British Vacation at a Secluded Resort"