It’s happening – we’re one step closer to getting trains that’ll take us all the way from the UK to Germany in one direct route. Eurostar and German rail operator Deutsche Bahn (DB) have confirmed a joint plan to launch high-speed rail routes between London and Deutschland.
The new routes were hinted at in the summer alongside a potential route to Geneva. Now, the two companies have signed a memorandum of understanding, solidifying their intentions to offer direct services from London to the likes of Cologne and Frankfurt. Right now, rail passengers have to take the Eurostar to Brussels then change in order to get to any German city. Nothing has been said about potential direct journeys to Berlin.
Full technicalities of the new services are yet to be worked out, but they would use existing lines and infrastructure. If everything goes to plan, the routes would start in the early 2030s using Eurostar’s brand-spanking-new fleet of double-decker trains. The journey between London and Cologne could take around four hours, while a ride to Frankfurt would take just over five hours.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said of the agreement: ‘This brings us one step closer to a new rail link that will put Britain at the heart of a better-connected Europe and paves the way for increased trade, tourism and investment.
‘From establishing pioneering cross-continent routes to freezing domestic rail fares for the first time in 30 years, transport is just one of the many ways this government is investing in international relationships to cut the cost of living back home.’
Gwendoline Cazenave, CEO of Eurostar, added: ‘By combining Eurostar’s cross-channel know-how and new fleet with DB’s strong presence in Germany, we’re creating a whole new level of connectivity and convenience for our customers.
‘This partnership will help continue to power Eurostar’s growth and bring us closer to our goal of carrying 30 million passengers across our network.’
ICYMI: This is the busiest train station in the UK (outside London).
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out UK newsletter for the latest UK news and the best stuff happening across the country.