Meet The Makers: Royal Scotsman’s Grand Suites
Meet The Makers: Royal Scotsman’s Grand Suites

Royal Scotsman’s Grand Suites are a blend of Scottish tradition and contemporary luxury. In this episode of ‘Meet The Makers’, we speak to textile designer Araminta Birse-Stewart and furniture maker William Garvey, as they reflect on nature’s bounty and the rugged landscapes of ancient Caledonia – both major inspirations for the contemporary interiors of our luxury train.
Araminta Campbell


Scotland’s changing landscapes are the foundation of any Araminta Birse-Stewart’s creation. In her atelier – a melee of mood boards, ornamental bird’s nests and yarns of wool – the designer shares stories of the auburn mountains, snowy white peaks and flowing rivers that she drew inspiration from to develop her unique Grand Suites tweeds and tartans. Preserving the beauty of Scottish heritage, Araminta creates a world where the majestic outdoors and refined interiors are constantly in dialogue.
William Garvey


William Garvey’s deep love of craftsmanship, beauty and nature has fuelled a rich career in woodworking that has spanned half a century. For ‘Meet The Makers’, the artisan unveils the finest contemporary furniture crafted for the Royal Scotsman's Grand Suites. With his artistry, the Grand Suites are a testament to luxury precision.
Grand Suites
Welcome to your convivial country house on wheels, where you and your loved ones will journey together, recounting the epic chapters of your adventure and creating unforgettable memories in the purest Scottish tradition. Pioneering the future of luxury, the world of the Grand Suites is one of exuberance and decadence. Aboard the Royal Scotsman train, doors dressed in intricate marquetry make way for indulgent spa treatments in a sumptuous en-suite bathroom and private dining comforts to relax.

Delve deeper into
You might also enjoy

Recipe: Sourdough Crumpets with Mushrooms & Poached Egg
An English breakfast is a classic way to experience the country’s culture. This sourdough crumpet recipe is from chef Michael Turner at Willett’s, a quintessential British bistro at The Cadogan, marrying earthy mushroom with silky poached egg.

Baths, by Belmond
From a freestanding tub aboard a legendary train to herb-infused rituals in historic palaces, discover seven of the most unique and indulgent baths across Belmond’s iconic collection.

Ambient Films: The New Mindfulness?
In a world dominated by short, snappy videos vying for our attention (the span of which, let’s face it, is ever shrinking), long-form ambient films on YouTube have become the ultimate antidote. As Belmond’s slow TV series ‘Long Shots’ launches – taking you to diverse destinations, from Peru to Italy – we take a closer look at this slow media phenomenon.

Onboard Marguerite, From Sunrise to Sunset
A trip onboard a Les Bateaux Belmond boat is unlike anything else. Welcome to a day on Marguerite, where from sunrise to sunset, you’ll explore the beauty of Burgundy by meeting food and wine producers that make this region in France so special.

Taste Travel: A Guide to Champagne
In the first of a new series of Belmond destination guides, food writer Caroline Craig takes us through what makes the French region of Champagne so special. For those ready to embark on their journey to the towns made famous by sparkling wine find everything you'll need to know here before exploring France further with Les Bateaux Belmond from Burgundy to Provence. Follow her tips to do like the French do – taking drinking bubbles and dining in style to the next level.

What To Wear in France’s Waterways
Though it may be tempting to pack berets and stripes, we’re here to help you avoid a dreaded faux pas when travelling to France. Style expert Osman Ahmed leads us through the do’s and don’ts of dressing for a French river cruise as part of our ‘Location Dressing’ series.

The Wellness Trends to Travel For in 2026
From longevity retreats and contrast therapy to ancient ceremonies and community-led healing, these are the wellness travel trends redefining how, why and where we journey in 2026.