I was recently invited to take part in the 40th birthday celebrations of the Association of Independent Tour Operators and was delighted to discover it involved a day on the Belmond British Pullman, sister train to the Orient Express.
We were encouraged to dress up in 1920’s style and although I was reluctant to do so, I was lucky to discover a suitable dress at Circa Vintage Boutique in Harrogate. With borrowed accessories I was ready for the day, wondering if it could possibly live up to the promises of glamour and excitement.
The brochure states that the moment you join the train you are transported to a world of pure indulgence and it is absolutely true, the moment I stepped into the luxuriously appointed vintage carriage I genuinely felt as if I’d gone back in time.
The staff are numerous and attentive, each one bringing a different delight to the table from the first glass of champagne on arrival, to a small box of truffles as a gift at the end. The 5 course meal is served at leisure so you have time to enjoy the selection of wines accompanying each course, and appreciate the scenic countryside passing by.
To add to the excitement our journey had a murder mystery theme and a talented group of actors infiltrated their way through the carriage dropping clues to help or hinder our success in guessing the murderer.
We returned to Victoria Station in the late afternoon and all agreed it was a perfect way to celebrate a special birthday and definitely lived up to its promise.
