Belmond x Wes Anderson

A Cinematic Ride

Filmmaker Wes Anderson teams up with Belmond to bring his signature style to the British Pullman.

Having already dabbled in the hospitality sector through the medium of film, Wes Anderson has now brought his inimitable style to the tracks, partnering with Belmond to design a carriage on British Pullman.

Honouring Belmond’s duty as ‘a custodian of timeless heritage’, the filmmaker – famed for hits such as The Grand Budapest Hotel, The Darjeeling Limited and The French Dispatch – looked to his own body of work for inspiration, marrying it with a personal passion for craftsmanship. “I love trains! I have often had the chance to invent train compartments and carriages in my movies, so I was immediately pleased to say yes to this real-life opportunity,” he comments. “I was very eager to make something new while also participating in the process of preservation, which accompanies all the classic Belmond train projects. They are keeping something special alive – igniting this endangered species of travel into a new golden era.”

Preservation was undoubtedly key for Belmond, with the celebrated train best known for transporting passengers to another era via its authentic vintage carriages, each with a unique history and concept. Named after the Greek God of Balance – often personified as a swan – the Cygnus carriage is instantly recognisable as a Wes Anderson design thanks to his signature symmetrical lines, colour palettes and Art Nouveau style. References to the myth can be found throughout the interiors, from the swan detailing in the marquetry to the silver leaf on the ceiling to represent water. Tables are also topped with a majestic solid silver champagne cooler in the shape of a swan.

Paying tribute to the golden age of both cinema and travel, Anderson’s design balances the historic origins of the 1950s Art Deco-inspired carriage with his dream-like storytelling for a cinematic guest experience. The carriage also introduces two new private coupés for an elevated level of privacy.

Departing from London’s Victoria Station, the British Pullman travels through the countryside with dining options ranging from afternoon tea to five-course lunches that celebrate the culinary highlights of the towns and cities it passes through. Speaking about the collaboration, Arnaud Champenois, Senior Vice President of Brand & Marketing at Belmond, comments: “We are always seeking new ways to remain relevant and create legendary adventures. It is our mission to keep the travel dreams alive by collaborating with the most creative talents, who share our passion for design and craftsmanship. It has been a privilege to work with Wes Anderson who is one of the most captivating storytellers in the world.”