Virgin Trains plans to launch European services from London St Pancras from 2030.
The proposed network will connect London with Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam.
Virgin could eventually operate up to 20 daily return services across the three routes.
The new high-speed rail services could connect London with Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam from 2030.
Travelling from London to Europe by train could soon come with a little more choice. Virgin Trains has moved a major step closer to launching international rail services from the UK, after receiving regulatory approval for routes connecting the capital with Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam.
The Office of Rail and Road has pre-approved a framework track access agreement between Virgin Trains and London St Pancras Highspeed. The agreement gives Virgin access to the HS1 network, which connects London St Pancras with the Channel Tunnel.
It marks an important milestone for the company and could eventually bring an end to Eurostar’s long-standing monopoly on passenger rail services through the Channel Tunnel. Eurostar has operated international passenger trains between the UK and continental Europe since 1994.
Virgin still has several hurdles to clear before passengers can climb aboard, including securing access to the Channel Tunnel and European rail networks, obtaining further safety approvals and finalising its new fleet.
Where Will Virgin Trains Travel In Europe?
The initial network will connect London St Pancras with Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam.
Virgin’s plans could ultimately allow for up to 20 daily return services, with the proposed full timetable comprising 13 daily return services to Paris, four to Brussels and three to Amsterdam.
However, the routes will be introduced gradually. Services to Paris could begin from 1 October 2030, followed by Brussels in February 2031 and Amsterdam in September 2031. The full allocation of 20 daily return journeys is scheduled to become available from October 2031.
Virgin has also outlined ambitions to expand its European network further across France and into Germany and Switzerland.
When Will Virgin Trains To Europe Launch?
The new framework track access agreement runs from 1 October 2030 until 31 December 2040.
While 2030 is the target for the first passenger services, the regulatory approval does not mean tickets are about to go on sale. Virgin must still complete a series of agreements and regulatory requirements before the first trains depart London.
Which UK Stations Will Virgin Trains Use?
London St Pancras International will be the main UK hub for the proposed services.
Virgin has also previously indicated that it would consider stopping at Ashford International and Ebbsfleet International in Kent if international services return to the stations. Eurostar stopped calling at both locations in 2020.
What Will The New Virgin Trains Look Like?
Virgin plans to operate a fleet of 12 Avelia Stream trains from French manufacturer Alstom. The high-speed trains are planned in a seven-carriage configuration and follow Virgin’s previous relationship with Alstom, which manufactured the Pendolino trains used during the company’s time operating services on the UK’s West Coast Main Line.
Early designs have naturally leaned into the company’s distinctive branding, with the familiar Virgin red and white colour scheme giving the trains an immediately recognisable appearance.
Will Virgin Trains Be Cheaper Than Eurostar?
Ticket prices have not yet been announced, but competition on the cross-Channel network could be welcome news for travellers looking for cheaper fares.
Virgin founder Richard Branson has previously said: “If you have competition, then fares will inevitably come down. If we’ve got seats that need selling, we will reduce the cost of them.”
Where: Kings Cross St. Pancras International, Euston Road, London, N1C 4QP
When: Services could begin operation from 1 October 2030
Contact: www.virgin.com