LuxuryTrainTickets Travels on The British Pullman!

“But I know human nature, my friend, and I tell you that, suddenly confronted with the possibility of being tried for murder, the most innocent person will lose his head and do the most absurd things.”― Agatha Christie, Murder on the Orient Express

There's nothing quite like solving a mystery on a vintage train on a Tuesday afternoon.

My colleagues and I were given the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take part in The British Pullman's 'Dead on Time' Murder Mystery Lunch featuring the exceptionally talented folk at Private Drama Events.

Our adventure began at London Victoria. We shuffled sleepily across the station, extra large coffee in hand, (it had been a 6 am start for most of us) when we heard the distant harmonies of live swing music. As we got closer, we could see a small stage featuring three jazz-era ladies performing outstanding covers of modern-day songs in a 1920s style. We had reached the British Pullman lounge.

We were greeted with a smile and a glass of fresh apple juice as we waited to check in. The atmosphere was electric and I myself had forgotten all about how sleepy I was previously.

When it was time to board, we were led to the gates of the platform where we were immediately greeted by the sharply dressed Pullman stewards. We took this opportunity to admire the train in all its glory - Glossy cream and brown carriages with exquisite gold lettering.

At this point, I had almost forgotten what we were there to do. That was of course until we began noticing an array of colourful characters floating across the platform.

This truly immersive experience had begun and I could not wait to roll up my sleeves and solve this mystery.

Our table was situated in the Minerva carriage - Minerva was built in 1927 and has served several train routes including the Devon Belle Pullman. We were shown to our private compartment which was laid beautifully with crisp white linens, crystal glasses, and fresh flowers.

Once we had made ourselves comfortable in our plush armchairs, we were greeted cheerfully by our server for the day, Artur. He introduced himself, explained to us the history of the carriage we were in, and then proceeded to pour us a warm cup of English ginger wine - the perfect tipple for this cold March morning.

As the train pulled away from the station, we spent a few minutes excitedly discussing the sheer luxury we were surrounded by before taking a look at the reading material that had been placed neatly on our table. We each had a book of clues and puzzles which related to the mystery we were there to solve. Like the serious detectives we are, we immediately picked up our complimentary British Pullman pens and got stuck in... That was, of course, until our server returned, armed with a bottle of Yellow Label Veuve Cliquot.

Whilst we enjoyed our champagne, we met our first character. She spun us a tale with incredible wit and charisma as we frantically made notes.

More characters came and went, more champagne was served and the scenery outside quickly turned from a cityscape into lush green fields. We had entered the Garden of England.

After some time, our starters were served: A Cornish haddock rissole with a herb dressing and nasturtiums as well as a delicious Cheltenham beetroot soup. We were also offered a choice of red or white wine. I opted for the red.

As the afternoon progressed, we met a number of eccentric characters; each one more suspicious than the last. The team and I were surprised at how invested we were in this mystery and the only thing that could possibly tear us away from our clues was the arrival of our main course.

A slow-cooked Romney salt marsh lamb shoulder with pea and mint purée, braised potato and lamb sauce... Accompanied by more wine of course. Carol, who is not a meat eater was offered the option of halibut which was served with braised puy lentils. All meals were incredibly well received.

Just when we thought the culinary delights couldn't get any better, the cheese was served.

A great British cheese selection served with Longhedge Farm chutney, fruit bread, and crackers. The perfect end to the perfect meal.

The journey was coming to an end and we discussed our plan of action over a cup of fresh coffee. We gathered all of our clues and got ready to J'accuse!

I think the phrase "It's the taking part that counts" would be appropriate for our journey. The killer was not who we suspected but the experience was one we would never forget.

When we arrived back in Victoria, the stewards were waiting on the platform to thank us and wish us a safe trip home.

What a day! Exquisite food, bountiful wine, incomparable service, AND an exciting Murder Mystery; all taking place on an iconic British train.

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If you think you can do a better job at solving the mystery, click here to book and find out for yourself.