The British Pullman, A Belmond Train, England, is preparing to launch Celia, a new private dining and events carriage designed by filmmaker Baz Luhrmann and Oscar-winning costume and production designer Catherine Martin.
Launching in May 2026, the carriage introduces a theatrical and highly personalised approach to luxury rail travel, combining fine dining, entertainment and bespoke hospitality aboard one of Britain’s most iconic trains.
A Cinematic Vision Inspired By Shakespeare And The British Countryside
The design of Celia is built around the fictional story of an imagined West End actress named Celia, inspired by Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and the visual extravagance associated with Baz Luhrmann’s films.
According to Belmond, the carriage was conceived as a cinematic environment where each section unfolds like scenes in a theatrical performance.
Guests enter through dramatic velvet curtains leading into separate spaces including a lounge bar, snug seating area and dining room, each featuring bold colours, floral motifs, marquetry woodwork and theatrical lighting.
The interiors incorporate references to the English countryside, vintage railway travel and Shakespearean symbolism, particularly through repeated pansy flower motifs inspired by Titania, Queen of the Fairies.
British Craftsmanship At The Centre Of The Design
Catherine Martin collaborated with several British artisans and long-term Belmond partners to develop the carriage interiors and dining presentation.
Contributors include marquetry specialists Dunn & Son, furniture designer Bill Cleyndert, glass studio Tony Sandles Bespoke Glass and embroidery house Hand & Lock.
Historic British fine bone china manufacturer Duchess China also collaborated on custom tableware, while Waterford Crystal and David Mellor supplied glassware and cutlery.
A signature scent selected by Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin has also been created exclusively for the carriage.
Luxury Rail Travel With Fully Bespoke Experiences
Celia is designed to host up to 12 guests and includes a private dining room, bar lounge, entertainment area and onboard kitchen.
Every journey aboard the carriage is fully customised through a dedicated guest experience curator who arranges menus, drinks, entertainment and off-train experiences in advance.
Guests will receive private luxury transfers from London hotels or Greater London addresses before boarding at Victoria Station.
During the journey, the carriage transforms from a lounge environment into a theatrical dining and entertainment venue complete with live performances, DJ sets and dance floor options.
Exclusive Dining And Curated Cocktails
The culinary experience includes bespoke three-course menus with guests selecting from multiple starter, main course and dessert options before departure.
Traditional British dishes such as beef Wellington and chicken liver parfait will feature alongside modern interpretations tailored to the occasion.
Belmond has also partnered with Monica Berg, co-founder of Tayer + Elementary, to create an exclusive cocktail programme available only within Celia.
Guests will additionally have the option to customise and stock their own onboard bar.
Private Access To Exclusive UK Experiences
As part of the experience, passengers will receive curated off-train access to private tours, stately homes, museums, boutiques and other exclusive UK destinations depending on the chosen itinerary.
Exclusive use of the Celia carriage aboard the British Pullman starts from £15,000, including transfers within Greater London.
