Rocco Forte Hotels has launched a rail getaway linking London and Edinburgh, offering a journey through Britain’s rich literary and artistic heritage

International news
The Great British Cultural Journey celebrates the UK’s National Year of Reading Launching to coincide with the UK’s National Year of Reading, Rocco Forte Hotels has unveiled the Great British Cultural Journey, a new literary and cultural experience created exclusively for Forte Suite guests booking the Great British Journey experience, which connects The Balmoral in Edinburgh and Brown’s Hotel.

Building on the original journey between the two properties, the enhanced experience offers literary encounters, cultural access and immersive storytelling inspired by the heritage of both destinations.

At The Balmoral, a two-night suite stay showcases Scotland’s rich storytelling traditions through a Dine Around Scotland experience with a literary twist, alongside a choice of private literary adventures exploring themes and characters ranging from Harry Potter and Muriel Spark to Sherlock Holmes. Guests may also enjoy an exclusive storytelling experience with award-winning Scottish author Sir Ian Rankin, offering unique insight into Scotland’s literary landscape. Additional highlights include privileged access to some of Scotland’s leading cultural institutions, including The King’s Gallery, the Scottish National Portrait Gallery and the National Museum of Scotland, home to treasures ranging from the Lewis Chessmen to Dolly the Sheep.

At Brown’s Hotel, guests can enjoy a private literary walk led by hotel historian Andy Williamson and a special Agatha Christie experience marking the 50th anniversary of the author’s death. A bespoke edition of At Bertram’s Hotel, thought to have been inspired by Christie’s favourite hotel, Brown’s itself, is included as part of the experience. Further highlights include martinis in Donovan Bar’s famed “Naughty Corner”, an evening at The Mousetrap, a private visit to Colnaghi Gallery and Champagne Afternoon Tea in the hotel’s iconic Drawing Room.

By Andrea Thompson