The Northern Belle has been voted one of "the best train trips in the world" by readers of the prestigious Conde Nast Traveller magazine. Evoking the opulence of 1930s rail travel, the Northern Belle luxury train traverses the glorious countryside en-route to some of Britain's top destinations. The experience that comes to life on the Northern Belle is like no other. With exquisitely decorated carriages, sumptuous cuisine and liveried stewards each journey is as exciting as its destination. As well as conjuring up the past, our exciting trips are a celebration of the present. From lavish five-course dinners to effervescent afternoon teas, these specially curated journeys combine the magic of rail travel with exceptional cuisine.
What a wonderful experience. From boarding at Telford the whole day was first class. The staff were exceptional and very attentive and polite. We had a table for 2 which was worth the extra money if you prefer not to sharing with strangers. Brunch was served very soon after. We had previously told them we didn't want fish so we had a full English breakfast which was gorgeous. Then more food and tea and coffee was plentiful. Reaching Carlisle we were allowed an hour and a half walk around then re board the train to a large glass of champagne. Then a six course dinner which was again excellent. The magician and the singers were an added special extra. I can't speak highly enough of the whole experience. Yes it was expensive but worth every penny. I hope to return some day
An absolutely amazing day out on the Northern BelleTrain 6 1/2 hour round trip. In the luxurious surroundings as we stepped back in time Champagne Reception, a sumptuous seven course lunch intertwined with entertainment. For me it really was a once in a lifetime experience. An amazing gift from my husband for a special Birthday that created so any unforgettable memories... Add this to your bucket list if you get the opportunity
We had a lovely trip to Edinburgh, lovely brunch with a nice cocktail. Staff were absolutely fantastic, they actually couldn't do enough for us. Had 3 hrs exploring Edinburgh before the return journey where we had a very enjoyable meal and a lovely evening. We are looking to book next years trip to Carlisle
This was our second time onboard the Northern Belle and our second time doing the festive run to/from Edinburgh. The greeter at Sheffield train station was very personable and great to chat to. The real magic started with the bagpiper on the platform, something we didn't have the year before but really added to the theatre and pageantry of our day. My great grandma was a proud Scot, then residing in London, so my mum found this both an emotional and beautiful tribute to both her and the journey that lay ahead. To our surprise and delight onboard Glamis we had a lot of the same crew as we had the previous year. A special shout out to Jason, Roz and the other hardworking crew members who made our journey very special and magical. Additional shout out to the cheeky chappy Dan whose wit and laid back personality make him both highly personable and added entertainment onboard. The entire train crew work exceptionally hard, go above and beyond and are a joy. If we get the chance to travel again, we hope we get the gold star team of Jason, Roz and Dan again. The food was, and always is, exceptional and faultless. Welcome addition to the cocktail menu this year, perhaps not to my waistline but certainly to my journey, and the farewell gift upon disembarkation. We also managed to purchase a few items from the onboard boutique, something which I feel should be better advertised at your seat and with a wider selection than what is shown in the brochure. I love the ability to take home with us a piece of the magic. Both years running this trip was a gift from my grandparents who are now too frail to join us but who wish to gift us this magical experience, in return the boutique allowed us to take a little bit of that luxury to them proudly on display in their home. Arriving at Edinburgh we were thrilled at how frictionless the transition from the train to our excursion was, operating like a well oiled machine. The tour guide was informative and the excursion a great treat. The real highlight, of course, being the return journey with the 6 course dinner and the entertainment. There is truly something special about this train. You could argue its the high level of detail, you could argue its the attentive staff or the luxurious surroundings, but there's something more at play. A crossroads of nostalgia, legend, luxury and sheer joy that gives the train a unique aura and energy creating something truly special and memorable for all that travel on her.
My wife & I booked along with friends who have previously been on Northern Belle's trip to Cumbria & had waxed lyrically about their excursion. So our friend (Geraldine Hayward) booked the four of us with Northern Belle to Cornwall, from Bristol Temple Meads (16/08/2023) Entering the 'belvoir' coach, our initial thoughts were 'lovely table settings', although when sitting down I could feel every spring in the seat cushion & I realised why there was a separate cushion originally placed on my seat - Not the best preparation for a six hour plus return journey! Our 'half glass' of Laurent-Perrier La Cuvee was a welcome start to the journey accompanied by the caviar Canape. Not sure if the 'Crispy Lamb' agreed with the taste of the orange cream, but the sourdough croute was hard, as if had been left for a while & bordered being stale! The Smorgasbord starter contained a rollmop herring with strands of onion which was unpopular with our party & other diners nearby! The intermediate course followed by the cheapest chilled leak & potato soup that could have possibly made the table, with 'dollop' creme fraiche dropped from a spoon into the centre - nothing like the 'cream swirl' stated! The main course citrus & parsley mousse was extremely dry & made the brest of chicken somewhat unappetising, although the accompaniments were satisfactory. The one 'sole' baby carrot should be branded that way, as opposed to the 'carrots' on the menu! The Dessert of: Summer fruit pudding was absolutely awful & I'm being understated with our opinions here! An-upside-down casing of bread containing a meager amount of what resembled Aldi or Lidl frozen 'forest fruits' looked unappetising & tasted even worse! The selection of British cheeses, biscuits Port & following coffee & petits fours were the only redeeming items in our opinion, of the whole menu! We very much doubt that if the Conde Nast Traveler readers or representatives we're witnessing the menu we experienced, it would definately not receive a place in the world's top ten', as stated in the menu - So Matthew Green (Head Chef), think again! We reached our destination - An unbelievable 'backwater' station in Par, Cornwall !!! Only to reboard & disembark within ten minutes of our arrival, not exactly allowing travellers exercise to ward off potential DVTs, having been seated, eating & drinking for 3 hours or more, or indeed an extended chance of fresh air! The Liveried Steward & waitresses on our carriage were very helpful & approachable & carried out their duties perfectly throughout. Everyone enjoyed the entertainment. The magician & especially the musicians, who obliged in singing 'happy birthday to you', it was Geraldine's birthday on the day. Overall, nice carriage ambiance. Poor information of timings for destination & return. Poor food menu & dietary selection option's & definitely not worth the money!
Booked for a trip to Edinburgh and a tour of royal yacht Britannia. When we had been on the train about an hour plus we were informed that the yacht had to be cancelled as there was not going to be enough time. Told by train manager Paddy that "they only found this out this morning". It was a beautiful August day and the carriage was extremely hot. Was told that unfortunately the air conditioning has broken down "this morning". The food and staff were excellent. About half an hour from Edinburgh the staff were clearing the tables and setting up for the evening meal which was really disappointing, felt like we were in a busy cafe. Would have been special to get back on to see it all set up. The advertised music on the return journey never materialised. It appears to me that what is provided is good. However, don't except a smooth day. To top it all off when I finally managed to get in touch with customer service, they were off hand, to say the least. Would not use Northern Belle again seem like they feel they can advertise a special experience but you may not get it all. Shame.
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Getting tickets in advance recommended
Good for kids
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What a wonderful experience. From boarding at Telford the whole day was first class. The staff were exceptional and very attentive and polite. We had a table for 2 which was worth the extra money if you prefer not to sharing with strangers. Brunch was served very soon after. We had previously told them we didn't want fish so we had a full English breakfast which was gorgeous. Then more food and tea and coffee was plentiful. Reaching Carlisle we were allowed an hour and a half walk around then re board the train to a large glass of champagne. Then a six course dinner which was again excellent. The magician and the singers were an added special extra. I can't speak highly enough of the whole experience. Yes it was expensive but worth every penny. I hope to return some day
An absolutely amazing day out on the Northern BelleTrain 6 1/2 hour round trip. In the luxurious surroundings as we stepped back in time Champagne Reception, a sumptuous seven course lunch intertwined with entertainment. For me it really was a once in a lifetime experience. An amazing gift from my husband for a special Birthday that created so any unforgettable memories... Add this to your bucket list if you get the opportunity
We had a lovely trip to Edinburgh, lovely brunch with a nice cocktail. Staff were absolutely fantastic, they actually couldn't do enough for us. Had 3 hrs exploring Edinburgh before the return journey where we had a very enjoyable meal and a lovely evening. We are looking to book next years trip to Carlisle
This was our second time onboard the Northern Belle and our second time doing the festive run to/from Edinburgh. The greeter at Sheffield train station was very personable and great to chat to. The real magic started with the bagpiper on the platform, something we didn't have the year before but really added to the theatre and pageantry of our day. My great grandma was a proud Scot, then residing in London, so my mum found this both an emotional and beautiful tribute to both her and the journey that lay ahead. To our surprise and delight onboard Glamis we had a lot of the same crew as we had the previous year. A special shout out to Jason, Roz and the other hardworking crew members who made our journey very special and magical. Additional shout out to the cheeky chappy Dan whose wit and laid back personality make him both highly personable and added entertainment onboard. The entire train crew work exceptionally hard, go above and beyond and are a joy. If we get the chance to travel again, we hope we get the gold star team of Jason, Roz and Dan again. The food was, and always is, exceptional and faultless. Welcome addition to the cocktail menu this year, perhaps not to my waistline but certainly to my journey, and the farewell gift upon disembarkation. We also managed to purchase a few items from the onboard boutique, something which I feel should be better advertised at your seat and with a wider selection than what is shown in the brochure. I love the ability to take home with us a piece of the magic. Both years running this trip was a gift from my grandparents who are now too frail to join us but who wish to gift us this magical experience, in return the boutique allowed us to take a little bit of that luxury to them proudly on display in their home. Arriving at Edinburgh we were thrilled at how frictionless the transition from the train to our excursion was, operating like a well oiled machine. The tour guide was informative and the excursion a great treat. The real highlight, of course, being the return journey with the 6 course dinner and the entertainment. There is truly something special about this train. You could argue its the high level of detail, you could argue its the attentive staff or the luxurious surroundings, but there's something more at play. A crossroads of nostalgia, legend, luxury and sheer joy that gives the train a unique aura and energy creating something truly special and memorable for all that travel on her.
My wife & I booked along with friends who have previously been on Northern Belle's trip to Cumbria & had waxed lyrically about their excursion. So our friend (Geraldine Hayward) booked the four of us with Northern Belle to Cornwall, from Bristol Temple Meads (16/08/2023) Entering the 'belvoir' coach, our initial thoughts were 'lovely table settings', although when sitting down I could feel every spring in the seat cushion & I realised why there was a separate cushion originally placed on my seat - Not the best preparation for a six hour plus return journey! Our 'half glass' of Laurent-Perrier La Cuvee was a welcome start to the journey accompanied by the caviar Canape. Not sure if the 'Crispy Lamb' agreed with the taste of the orange cream, but the sourdough croute was hard, as if had been left for a while & bordered being stale! The Smorgasbord starter contained a rollmop herring with strands of onion which was unpopular with our party & other diners nearby! The intermediate course followed by the cheapest chilled leak & potato soup that could have possibly made the table, with 'dollop' creme fraiche dropped from a spoon into the centre - nothing like the 'cream swirl' stated! The main course citrus & parsley mousse was extremely dry & made the brest of chicken somewhat unappetising, although the accompaniments were satisfactory. The one 'sole' baby carrot should be branded that way, as opposed to the 'carrots' on the menu! The Dessert of: Summer fruit pudding was absolutely awful & I'm being understated with our opinions here! An-upside-down casing of bread containing a meager amount of what resembled Aldi or Lidl frozen 'forest fruits' looked unappetising & tasted even worse! The selection of British cheeses, biscuits Port & following coffee & petits fours were the only redeeming items in our opinion, of the whole menu! We very much doubt that if the Conde Nast Traveler readers or representatives we're witnessing the menu we experienced, it would definately not receive a place in the world's top ten', as stated in the menu - So Matthew Green (Head Chef), think again! We reached our destination - An unbelievable 'backwater' station in Par, Cornwall !!! Only to reboard & disembark within ten minutes of our arrival, not exactly allowing travellers exercise to ward off potential DVTs, having been seated, eating & drinking for 3 hours or more, or indeed an extended chance of fresh air! The Liveried Steward & waitresses on our carriage were very helpful & approachable & carried out their duties perfectly throughout. Everyone enjoyed the entertainment. The magician & especially the musicians, who obliged in singing 'happy birthday to you', it was Geraldine's birthday on the day. Overall, nice carriage ambiance. Poor information of timings for destination & return. Poor food menu & dietary selection option's & definitely not worth the money!
Booked for a trip to Edinburgh and a tour of royal yacht Britannia. When we had been on the train about an hour plus we were informed that the yacht had to be cancelled as there was not going to be enough time. Told by train manager Paddy that "they only found this out this morning". It was a beautiful August day and the carriage was extremely hot. Was told that unfortunately the air conditioning has broken down "this morning". The food and staff were excellent. About half an hour from Edinburgh the staff were clearing the tables and setting up for the evening meal which was really disappointing, felt like we were in a busy cafe. Would have been special to get back on to see it all set up. The advertised music on the return journey never materialised. It appears to me that what is provided is good. However, don't except a smooth day. To top it all off when I finally managed to get in touch with customer service, they were off hand, to say the least. Would not use Northern Belle again seem like they feel they can advertise a special experience but you may not get it all. Shame.
