The sister train to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, widely recognized as the modern torchbearer of the legendary Orient Express legacy, is the British Pullman, A Belmond Train.
Understanding the Connection
While the historical Orient Express was a service run by various companies over many decades, today's most renowned luxury train that continues its spirit is the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. This exquisite train is part of the Belmond collection, which also includes its elegant sister, the British Pullman. For travelers embarking on a journey aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from London, the experience often commences with boarding the British Pullman at London Victoria Station, establishing a seamless and luxurious connection between the two services.
The British Pullman: A Journey in Itself
The British Pullman offers a distinctive luxury rail experience within the United Kingdom. It comprises meticulously restored vintage carriages from the 1920s to 1950s, each with its own unique history and character. Passengers can indulge in gourmet dining and impeccable service while exploring the British countryside or enjoying special themed excursions.
Key aspects of the British Pullman experience include:
- Historic Carriages: Each carriage is a marvel of Art Deco design and craftsmanship, having been painstakingly restored to its original splendor.
- Gourmet Dining: Exceptional cuisine is served on board, often accompanied by fine wines and Champagne, creating a memorable culinary journey.
- Excursions and Events: The train operates a variety of day trips and themed events from London and other UK cities, showcasing scenic routes and iconic destinations.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Legacy
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express continues the tradition of grand European rail travel, connecting iconic cities like Paris, Venice, and Istanbul. It offers multi-day, overnight journeys with luxurious cabins, white-glove service, and world-class dining, recreating the golden age of travel.
Here's a comparison highlighting the distinct roles and shared luxury between the two:
| Feature | Venice Simplon-Orient-Express | British Pullman, A Belmond Train |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | International luxury sleeper train, offering multi-day journeys across Europe. | Luxury day train primarily for excursions within the UK and connecting services to the VSOE. |
| Routes | Iconic European routes, most notably Paris to Venice, with special annual departures to destinations like Istanbul. | Various routes across the UK, departing from London Victoria Station and other British cities. |
| Type of Journey | Overnight, immersive international voyages with private cabins and opulent dining cars. | Day excursions, often featuring fine dining, afternoon tea, or special events without overnight stays. |
| Experience | Grand European adventure, elegant suites, gourmet dining, and a strong sense of historical romance and luxury. | Quintessentially British luxury, showcasing vintage carriages, exquisite meals, and scenic UK landscapes. |
Why "Sister" Trains?
The "sister" designation between the British Pullman and the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express stems from their shared ownership and operational philosophy under Belmond, a leading luxury travel company. Both trains embody a commitment to preserving the heritage of luxury rail travel, offering unparalleled service, meticulously restored carriages, and exceptional culinary experiences. They often work in tandem, with the British Pullman facilitating the initial leg of a European journey for passengers departing from London to connect with the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, making them interconnected parts of a grander travel narrative.
For more information on these luxurious train experiences, you can visit the official Belmond pages for the British Pullman and the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
