We took a trip on board The Northern Belle to Dundee on July 13, which is said to be one of the world’s poshest trains. Here’s what it’s like on board and what we really thought.

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to travel like royalty? Well, we went to find out.

Described as one of the UK’s most luxurious trains, The Northern Belle is like something out of an Agatha Christie novel, offering customers the chance to experience a day in the fast lane with mouth-watering food, scenic views, and the service to match.

The Northern Belle was first put into service in 2000, as the UK’s version of the Orient Express. Said to have been loved by the Queen Mother, the train features intricate themed décor in each carriage and plush seats that makes anyone feel like they are a part of royalty themselves.

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The Northern Echo: The Northern Belle.

@thenorthernecho Come with us on the UK’s poshest train, The Northern Belle! Here’s what it’s really like on board… #travel#trains#scenicrailway#northernecho#journey#daytrips#uktravel#durham#dundee ♬ Richter: Spring 1 - 2012 - Max Richter & Daniel Hope & Konzerthaus Kammerorchester Berlin & André de Ridder

For our trip, we journeyed to Dundee for the day to sample Scottish history in Scone whilst dining on gourmet cuisine and relaxing without a care in the world.

We started our day early, boarding at Durham at 7.30am on the Belvoir carriage, one of the seven carriages that were being pulled that day. Belvoir, named after Belvoir Castle in Leicestershire, features honeybees painted upon Indian rosewood and oak with pale grey patterned seats.

The Northern Echo: On board The Northern Belle.

The tables had already been laid with beautiful ‘Northern Belle’ crockery and glasses as we pulled out of Durham towards Newcastle for our final stop before the leisurely journey up to Dundee.

At this point, the staff - including Phil, Laura and Nicky - introduced themselves and assured us they would cater for our every need should we need anything.

Food and drink swiftly followed as the staff offered us tea and coffee as well as a welcome drink of a mimosa. When the trip was booked, we were asked to advise the staff of any dietary requirements, so that the menu could be adjusted to suit needs which means anyone can still enjoy the exceptional menu on board.

The Northern Echo: A morning mimosa.

Our first course was natural yoghurt with granola and apricots, followed by a divine cheddar cheese souffle with a smoked salmon fillet and chive cream sauce. Then, we tucked into pastries as the staff made more hot drinks rounds as we neared the Scottish border. The brunch was simply, to put it into one word, indulgent.

Once we arrived at Dundee, coaches transferred us to a destination of our choice that we had picked when the trip was booked. For this trip, you could choose between Glamis Castle or Scone Palace, the crowning place of Scottish Kings. It was a tough decision, but we chose to visit Scone in the end.

After the 40 minute transfer to Scone, we were given two hours to explore the palace and its stunning gardens before getting back on the coach.

Luckily the sun was shining as we took in the scenery including Moot Hill where the crowning of Kings including Robert the Bruce took place. There was no photography allowed inside the palace, which is still used as a private home to the Earl and Countess of Mansfield.

The Northern Echo: Outside Scone Palace.

The only dislike I have about this part of the day was that I felt like we were rushed at Scone. The two hours were fantastic but upon arriving back at Dundee Station there was a 40 minute wait until we could board the train again for the trip home. In my opinion, this time could have been given to us to enjoy more time at Scone.

However, the journey home more than made up for the short wait. Upon arrival, we were welcomed back by the staff with a drink we had ordered on the first leg. For me, I enjoyed a passion fruit martini whilst my companion enjoyed a glass of white wine.

The table was, again, all set for our evening meal that began with canapes including caviar with sour cream, quail egg and pickled shallot. This was a truly unexpected treat – and I was pleasantly surprised by caviar which was something I had not tried before.

The Northern Echo: A taste of the high life with caviar.

Our starter was a smooth chilled leek and potato soup followed by a moist chicken breast with citrus butter that was accompanied by a perfectly cooked potato and soft vegetables. Then, dessert was a summer fruit pudding – which my companion was a particular fan of!

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The Northern Echo: Scone Palace.

Before we ended our trip, we were entertained by musicians who sang a fun rendition of ‘Putting on the Ritz’ whilst encouraging us to join in with the sing-along. Then, a magician came and did some close-up magic for us which was a nice touch to finish the day.

Upon reflection, I think the best way to describe the trip is that it was something so out of the ordinary. For the day, you are waited on hand and foot with incredibly decadent food and treats whilst you relax and watch the world whizz by. The staff are so kind, and their service cannot be faulted. They are the heart of the whole experience you get on board.

The Northern Belle is truly Downton Abbey on wheels. Suddenly you are a Countess heading on a trip in comfort and style feeling like a million dollars on a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Getting to experience a day on the Belle is something I will never forget, and I would recommend it to anyone.