Introduction | History | Carriages

The Northern Belle train entered service in 2000 as a sister to the highly successful British Pullman train of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.

Ever since George Mortimer Pullman's first luxury train was conceived in 1864, people have been captivated by the elegance and sense of occasion that surrounds such decadent travel.

Whilst the Pullman Palace Car Company brought the romance of luxury rail travel to Britain, Georges Nagelmackers founded the luxury sleeping car service which was destined to become legendary, spanning the rail networks across Europe.

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is synonymous with sophistication and splendid comfort. Restoration of the carriages by celebrated interior designers such as Rene Laliqué ensures that the decadence of the Orient-Express experience is unsurpassed. It's re-launch in 1982 marked the re-emergence of a new age in elegant rail travel.

Introduced to provide the ultimate in stylish and enjoyable day excursions and short breaks throughout the North of Britain, the Northern Belle combines classic craftsmanship and contemporary engineering and is a reflection of the affluent 'Belle' trains of the 1930's. Each of the six dining carriages is named after a great British castle or stately home.

Interior designs, created by James Park Associates, reflect the character of the stately home or castle that they are named after. Marquetry, fabrics and brassware have been specifically commissioned from British craftsmen. On 31st May 2000 the Northern Belle made it's inaugural journey from Liverpool Lime Street to Belvoir Castle. To celebrate the historic occasion 252 guests including celebrities from the North of England enjoyed live musical entertainment en route followed by a champagne brunch before arriving at Belvoir Castle for a private tour and jousting tournament.