Once brunch service is over you are free to roam the train and can take in the differences and uniqueness of the other carriages – each offer their own charm and layout , even down to the original toilets – before heading back to your seat ready for arrival at the wonderfully historic Bath .
Bath again was one of those places that I had always wanted to go , and this trip affords guests the chance to spend about three hours in the city as well as providing a mini city tour by coach included in the ticket . My guest and I ( as well as almost every other passenger !) plumped for this option and were taken on a whistle-stop tour of the major sights and places of interest ( albeit during a busy Rugby Saturday ) and were able to gleam a little better the historical significance of the city before our last stop at the amazing Roman Baths , entry to which was also included .
We ambled in wonder around the columns , preserved buildings and the natural spa waters before heading off for the city ’ s renowned spa attraction , the Thermae Bath Spa , Britain ’ s original natural thermal spa .
The New Royal Bath is the result of a multimillion pound project leading to a building that is a magnificent fusion of glass , stone , light and water and offers a range of thermal pools and spa treatments . The new Wellness Suite , scheduled for completion this spring will offer even more thermal experiences with new steam and sauna facilities . Guests are able to enjoy a ‘ Thermae Welcome ’ which includes a 2-hour spa session with use of towel , robes and slippers . The queues can stretch round the building such is its popularity , yet whilst busy , inside it is still a tranquil haven of bliss .
Once changed you have the option of descending to the lower bath , where you can grab a float and literally lie back as the gentle currents glide you around in the naturally heated 33.5 decree waters ; or to the amazing open-air rooftop bath where the steam rises from the waters which contain over 42 minerals and trace elements into the cooler air around .
It was spectacular to see and even better to experience , my guest and I happily bobbed along in the warm waters glimpsing the rooftops and calm skies above .
We left feeling relaxed and rejuvenated , and with just enough time to amble around the cobbled streets before reaching the station for our departure back to London .
Even though we knew what to expect on the return leg , the arrival of the Belmond British Pullman to Bath was just as heralded and just as special . We eagerly returned to our seats and prepared for our 4-course dinner that awaited .
This time we started with Champagne before starters of roast cauliflower soup – creamy , rich and with a hint of curry spice , followed by a main of daube of beef , the tender slowcooked meat dissolved in the mouth ; a triumph with its perfectly cooked dauphinoise and tenderstem broccoli sides . This was followed by a plentiful cheese course devoured by my guest and which was effortlessly changed to a fruit platter without me even needing to request it by the efficient team that had noted my dietary requirements , before we ended with a delicate pear , blackcurrant and almond millefeuille with crème anglaise .
We arrived back to London Victoria at nightfall , pleasantly full from the wonderful food and full of memories from an amazing trip , grateful to the staff for their friendly , efficient and wholeheartedly attentive service and grateful for having had the opportunity to tick the box on this once in a lifetime experience .
Although , that said , I ’ m already desperate to travel aboard again and planning my next trip , and I wholeheartedly recommend that you do too !