You Can Fully Immerse Yourself in a Wes Anderson Film by Booking a Murder Mystery Train Car
If you’re a fan of Wes Anderson’s whimsical, eloquently eccentric movie sets, you can basically envelope yourself in one while traveling through the British countryside. The Cygnus carriage on the British Pullman train was built in the 1950s and was recently redecorated by Wes himself.
The train, operated by Belmond, touts 11 cars, all with unique monikers and decor. The name Cygnus means “swan” in Latinized Greek. As such, you’ll spot swans, some cleverly placed, throughout the carriage. You can tour the train car in the reel embedded below.
You’ll find mesmerizing kaleidoscopic upholstery matched with geometric carpeting and midcentury Americana RV-style drapery.
On the walls, gorgeous walnut paneling is inlaid with clouds, sunbeams, rippling water, and, of course, tiny swans.
“I have often had the chance to invent train compartments and carriages in my movies, so I was very eager to make something new while also participating in the process of preservation which accompanies all the classic Belmond train projects,” Wes said to Belmond. “They are keeping something special alive. An endangered species of travel which is nevertheless very suited to our time.”
You can book tables in the main Cygnus carriage or reserve a private coupe. If you really want to feel entertained, you can book a “Moving Murder Mystery.”
The murder mystery experience includes a five-course lunch and champagne. On theme, the champagne is served in a swan chiller.
If you have travel plans to the UK and a few hundred bucks to spare, a trip booked with Belmond dining on the British Pullman is probably worth adding.
