Direct trains linking London and Berlin to transform European travel

Direct trains between London and Berlin will launch in the early 2030s, creating a faster, greener alternative to flights and transforming travel across Europe for millions of passengers. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The Kensington Treaty, signed on July 17 during Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s visit, marks a milestone in UK-German relations. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Merz sealed the deal at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum.

As part of the UK government’s “Plan for Change,” the treaty sets a clear goal: establish long-distance services connecting London to Berlin and other German hubs such as Frankfurt.

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Direct trains to enhance connectivity and reduce emissions

A joint UK-Germany transport taskforce will assess infrastructure, security, and customs requirements. It will also study technical aspects like safety standards and collaboration with operators to deliver the new route efficiently.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stressed Britain’s role in building a better-connected Europe. She highlighted that travelers will soon enjoy a sustainable, comfortable rail journey to landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Wall.

Direct trains drive competition and new operators’ entry

The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) announced plans to allocate spare capacity at Eurostar’s Temple Mills depot, crucial for trains using the Channel Tunnel. This move could allow a new operator to challenge Eurostar’s 31-year monopoly.

Virgin Group, FS Italiane, and Gemini Trains have all expressed interest. However, ORR warned that only one new operator, or Eurostar itself, can realistically expand due to space limits. Applicants must submit detailed capacity plans soon.

Eurostar is already preparing for growth, with new routes to Frankfurt, Geneva, and Berlin targeted for early 2030s. These services aim to offer travelers a practical alternative to short-haul flights, cutting emissions and saving time.

Industry experts believe this treaty signals a new era for European rail. With competition rising and connectivity improving, passengers will soon swap budget flights for fast, eco-friendly train journeys across the continent.

Source: www.dailymail.co.uk

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