Whatever the occasion – from a special birthday or anniversary, a thank you or just a much-needed treat after the stresses and strains of life in general, discover why this train has such a fabulous reputation …… with our popular Luxury Away-Day – ‘Murder Mystery on the Orient Express’. Part of Belmond British Pullman Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, it’s the world’s most famous train. Revel in luxury and nostalgia whilst gliding through the glorious English countryside, but who can you trust?!!
It is this moment of national jubilation in which the scene is set for a MURDER MYSTERY. A fresh optimism is sweeping the country but, on board, an unexpected encounter leads to the untimely demise of one fellow passenger… As the plot unfolds, you’ll be served a sumptuous lunch made with fine ingredients, accompanied by a selection of wine. You may take the moment to soak in your surroundings as the beautiful countryside, before returning to your clue sheet and itinerary with a fresh perspective and renewed vigour. Those not so easily persuaded by the enigmatic suspects and compromised cohorts will be crowned best detective, so keep your senses on high alert!
Enjoy a delicious freshly prepared 5-course meal served with English champagne and your choice of wine by attentive, liveried stewards whilst taking in every moment of your delightful experience. Here, in the only set of authentic 1920s Pullman carriages in the UK, prepare for first-class service, unparalleled comfort and exceptional fine dining.
This will be Solent Events’ 12th Luxury Away-Day experience on this beautiful Pullman train ….. and I can promise you it is like no other in the world. I’m sure you will come home with some wonderful memories to keep and cherish forever!
We therefore invite you to step aboard the famous Belmond British Pullman train for a day of fun, mystery, adventure and nostalgia, as you glide through the English countryside – trying to fathom out who is the murderer amongst our fellow passengers!
With its beautifully restored marquetry, crystal glass and deep upholstered armchairs, the Pullman carriages provide a unique and original setting for all kinds of social occasions. As an extra personal touch, we normally have our own Solent Events carriage too!
As each carriage, dates from the 1920s & 1930s and is staffed by the Pullman’s famous, loyal and immaculately liveried stewards, you will relish the majestic comfort of a sumptuous armchair whilst admiring the intricate marquetry, woven brass luggage racks, gleaming crystal and silken lampshades that transport you back to a more gracious age. ‘Travel’ was so much more than just simply to arrive!
The moment you settle in, this scintillating murder mystery combines luxurious comfort, glamour, and a dash of adventure, curated by a world-leading theatrical production company.
Your journey will take you past farms, fields and orchards where some of Kent’s most famous specialities are produced. As you travel, you’ll be tasting an array of these specialities on Head Chef Jon Freeman’s imaginative seasonal menu. But first, to toast the start of the adventure: a half-bottle per person of English champagne (non-alcoholic alternatives will also be available). The chalky Kent soil is very similar to that of the Champagne terroir. In fact, can you keep a secret? …… even the famous champagne houses in France are starting to plant vineyards in Kent …. so, your flute of British Fizz promises to be exceptional!
The route takes you past rolling hills, forests, towns, villages and the sea, giving you a rich smorgasbord of vistas. Take the opportunity to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy convivial conversations with your companions and other guests. Coffee is served before you arrive back into London Victoria station for your journey’s end.
As always, our luxury transport will whisk you off to London from four local pick-ups. If time permits, a welcome complimentary coffee and a freshen-up in the Hilton Hotel opposite. Glamour and excitement builds across the road on platform 2 of Victoria Station. After a complimentary glass of Kent juice in the Orient Express lounge, you will be ready to meet our personal stewards aboard one of the stately carriages.
AFFORDABLE LUXURY
To ensure everyone is able to budget for this once-in-a-lifetime luxury and famous murder mystery, an easy PAYMENT INSTALMENT PLAN is available on the booking form.
Special gifts and treats do not get much better than this, so why not pamper yourself, or a loved one, to this ‘Once-in-a-Lifetime’ Away-Day.
Life’s too short …..
Places are limited to one Solent Events carriage, so we urge you to contact us as soon as possible to save any disappointment!
Be taken back to the 1930s, where reclusive genius Ambrose L. Valkerne has completed his masterpiece, Arcadia – a dazzling utopian city off the coast of Britain. You are invited to join the maiden voyage to this extraordinary New World, taking place on the British Pullman. But behind the glittering façade, whispers of dark secrets swirl among the passengers. Would someone go as far as murder? Prepare yourself for a journey of intrigue and suspense.
DRESS CODE:
This is the perfect place and time to celebrate, dress up and enjoy world-class cuisine and service. To maintain an elegant and enjoyable atmosphere for all guests, please do not wear casual clothing, including denim, trainers, baseball caps, collarless T-shirts or shorts! Whilst jackets & ties are not essential, smart attire, formal dress or even the style of previous eras (1920s to 1950s) is very much encouraged – and as a group, most of us do! In fact, you can NEVER be overdressed aboard these beautiful trains with their elegant carriages!
PROVISIONAL ITINERARY
Due to the uncertainty of roadworks etc en route to London, the pick-up times are proposed as follows:
0730 Coach leaves Stokes Bay – Sailing Club Bus Shelter
0740 Pick-up at Lee on the Solent – Bus stop opposite seafront shops
0750 Pick up at Stubbington – Red Lion
0800 Pick up at Fareham – Peak Lane
Canapés & Bubbly served
1000/1030 Arrive Victoria, London, platform 2 with a complimentary cocktail in the Orient Express Lounge
1045 Welcome aboard with a glass of champagne
1100 Our journey begins
Whilst gliding through the Kent countryside, The Garden of England, enjoy a sumptuous 5-course lunch with wine & bubbly, whilst a Murder is announced! Can you figure out ‘who dunnit’? With the help of your friendly companions, the fun begins!
1600 Arrive back at Victoria Station – platform 2 – with time to take photographs for your ‘Memory Box’ ….
1615/30 Meet the coach where dropped off for journey home
Approx
1900 Arrive in home area
Approx
Minimum numbers apply
The itinerary above now has up to date pick-up times, but an E-POSTCARD with the final details will be sent by email 7-10 days beforehand. (You will also be asked to check your SPAM/JUNK Inbox).
NB. Please do not ask us to be picked up or dropped off at stops not specifically listed above, as for the comfort all all clients, unfortunately we are unable to do so.
Couples & friends will be seated together. Large parties will be seated together as far as possible.
Solent Events & Leisure reserves the right to alter the final tour itinerary as necessary if circumstances change beyond their control.
Your details will be safe with us & will not be passed on to any other person, company or business