Afternoon tea on the Belmond

Starting at London Victoria, the route took us around the Kent countryside, from local suburbs of Bromley to the golden grassy hills in the depths of the countryside leading us to Ashford, and back again. We sipped on Laurent Perrier’s birthday beverage of choice (which, I can confirm, from all attendees, was delicious), as well as homemade warm scones, finger sandwiches and cakes all themed around the big celebration (it just so happens myself and Laurent Perrier share the same initials, which was a very happy coincidence indeed) and nattered away as we zoomed past new and old pockets of the country and slumped into the pillowy cushions on board.

After food, we slipped from our carriage to have an explore of the other nine on the train. With each having it’s own unique history and decadent decor (for example, you can see the seat Nelson Mandela sat in, as well as part of Winston Churchill’s funeral train)- it made for a fascinating peek back into history, and knowing each had been lovingly cared for and seen so much made you truly feel like you were experiencing something special. You can’t imagine the kind of guests these seats had seen- from royalty to the a-list, being a fly on the wall over the years must have been incredible- even the toilets felt fancy!

As golden hour washed over the day, we began pulling back into the big smoke. I could certainly get used to all of my commutes looking like this, and although it’s certainly a special occasion and once in a lifetime kind of experience, I can’t recommend it enough for anyone considering booking. It’s certainly not something I’ll forget any time soon, and it’s safe to say that the Venice journey is solidly next on my list, a girl can dream!

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