About the Northern Belle
Beyond the world of ordinary first class there lies an almost secret world, one of private luxury trains, of which only a handful remain. The Northern Belle is one such train, and one of the most beautiful.
The Northern Belle carries all the romance and glamour of the classic 'Belle' trains of the 1930s, those elegant expresses that once criss-crossed the British Isles. Lovingly restored to its former glory by the team behind the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, it has become known as the 'Orient-Express of the North', and in 2025 it was named among the Top 5 of the World's Greatest Trains in the Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards.
Unlike the great sleeper trains, the Northern Belle specialises in day excursions and short breaks, setting out from stations right across the UK, from Manchester, Liverpool and York to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Hull and beyond. Each journey takes you deep into Britain's finest scenery and to some of its most treasured places, all in a single unforgettable day or weekend, with no need to pack for a longer trip.
Immaculate carriages, superb food and warm, attentive service, and scenery to take your breath away, are just some of the delights that await you on board. This is Britain at its finest, and there is no lovelier way to enjoy it.
The Carriages
Each of the Northern Belle's carriages is named after a great British castle or stately home, and decorated to reflect its character. Lavishly furnished with specially commissioned fabrics, intricate marquetry and glistening brass, every exquisite detail sets the scene for a step back into a more elegant and gracious age.
Among them are Warwick, Belvoir and Harlech, along with Glamis, named after the late Queen's childhood home, and Duart, once a carriage on the Royal Train itself. Settle into the intimate country-house atmosphere of your carriage, glass in hand, and watch the beauty of Britain glide gently past the window.
A Symphony of Flavour
Dining is at the very heart of the Northern Belle experience, and here it does something no other luxury train in the world does. It is the only luxury train to offer a true à la carte menu, with your dishes chosen on the day rather than fixed in advance.
The kitchens are led by Food and Beverage Director Brian Clark, a chef who has cooked for royalty, presidents and even Madonna. Every menu celebrates the finest seasonal British produce, from Royal Siberian caviar and hand-poured Champagne to grass-fed Hereford beef and exquisite patisserie, all freshly prepared on board and served with carefully chosen wines.
Included in Every Journey
To celebrate the train's recognition by Condé Nast Traveller, every journey now includes the following, at no extra cost:
Champagne Reception
A glass of chilled Champagne to greet you the moment you step aboard.
Sommelier's Wine
An upgraded choice of wine, hand-selected to match your menu.
Port & Cheese
A glass of port to accompany the cheese board after your meal.
Fortnum & Mason Tea
The perfect finishing touch to a very British day out.
Raise a Glass: Our Champagne Classes
For a truly special occasion, you can elevate your journey further still with one of the Northern Belle's Champagne classes, bookable when you reserve your journey.
Moët & Chandon Class
A Champagne reception with Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage, an upgraded bottle of wine, and a bottle of Moët & Chandon Impérial per couple.
KRUG Class
A bottle of KRUG Grande Cuvée and an upgraded wine per couple, seating in the storied Duart or Glamis carriage, and a memorable gift on departure.
The Journeys
No two Northern Belle journeys are quite the same, and there is something to suit every taste. Fares start from around £445 per person, all-inclusive, with departures from stations across the UK. You might spend a day exploring a historic city such as Bath, Chester, Edinburgh or York, visit a great house or garden like Chatsworth or Alnwick, or ride one of the country's most beautiful lines, from the Settle and Carlisle to the West Highland.
Historic Towns & Cities
Elegant days out in Britain's most beautiful cities and market towns.
Castles & Gardens
Grand houses, romantic castles and glorious gardens across the land.
Steam-Hauled Specials
The magic of the age of steam, including the famous Settle and Carlisle line.
Scenic Railways
The West Highland, the Welsh Borders and other truly spectacular lines.
Seaside Escapes
A day by the coast, in rather more style than the average trip to the sea.
Race Days & Events
Arrive at the races and other great sporting occasions in style.
Flower Shows
Days out to the season's finest shows, including RHS Chelsea.
Festive Journeys
Much-loved Christmas lunches and festive days out each winter.
Celebrations & Gifts
The Northern Belle is the most memorable way to mark a special occasion, whether a milestone birthday, a wedding anniversary, a romantic proposal, or simply a treat for someone you love. Our on-board team takes real pleasure in helping to make the day one you will never forget.
Gift vouchers are available too, letting the lucky recipient choose a journey of their own. There is no more elegant way to give the gift of a day to remember.