The Northern Belle
My partner and I recently had the opportunity to indulge in a luxurious experience aboard the Northern Belle, a train journey that promised opulence and delivered in every sense. While neither of us are particularly passionate about trains, we were drawn to the idea of an extravagant day out, complete with champagne afternoon tea, live music, and an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Having never done anything like this before, we were excited to step out of our comfort zone and embrace the charm of a bygone era.
We were seated in the Glamis carriage, and from the moment we stepped inside, we were transported to a world of elegance. The carriage was beautifully adorned with intricate artwork on the wood panels, and the ceiling boasted stunning details that added to the luxurious ambiance. The bathrooms were a pleasant surprise—modern, clean, and beautifully maintained, a testament to the care taken to ensure every aspect of the journey was top-notch.
The journey began with a glass of champagne, setting the tone for the indulgence that was to follow. We had opted for the champagne afternoon tea, and what arrived at our table exceeded all expectations. The feast began with savoury sausage rolls and quiche, followed by an array of delicate sandwiches and an assortment of cakes that looked almost too good to eat. As if that wasn’t enough, we were then treated to freshly baked hot scones, complete with clotted cream and jam, and a generous serving of strawberries and cream. To top it all off, a selection of chocolates was presented, rounding out a meal that was far more than we could possibly finish.
One of the highlights of the journey was the live entertainment. Two musicians moved through the carriage, stopping at each table to play a few tunes and take requests. They played for us twice during the journey, adding a personal touch that made the experience even more memorable. We also had a visit from a magician who dazzled us with close-up magic tricks, involving everyone at our table and leaving us all thoroughly impressed.
The train itself was a work of art, but what made the experience truly special was the attention to detail. The dress code added an extra layer of sophistication, and we enjoyed the chance to dress up for the occasion. The service was impeccable, with the staff ensuring that every need was met with a smile. There were a few stops along the way, allowing passengers to stretch their legs before returning to the comfort of their seats, but we found ourselves eager to stay onboard and soak up the luxury.
While the Northern Belle is undoubtedly a more expensive luxury experience, it’s one that we believe is worth every penny. As younger adults, this journey offered us a chance to slow down and appreciate the finer things in life. Even if you’re not a train enthusiast, the Northern Belle promises a day of pure indulgence, with exquisite food, captivating entertainment, and an ambiance that’s both nostalgic and romantic.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a unique day out, this experience is one that you won’t forget. My partner’s parents had done something similar and raved about it, and now we understand why. The Northern Belle is more than just a train ride—it’s a journey into a world of luxury, where every detail is designed to make you feel pampered and special. If you’re looking to treat yourself, or perhaps surprise someone you love with a truly memorable experience, we can’t recommend this journey enough.
I’ve added a google link to the website for The Northern Belle, and our Instagram link if you want to check either of those out