Virgin Trains is preparing to launch a rival service to Eurostar, set to shake up rail travel between the UK and mainland Europe. For the first time in over 30 years, Eurostar’s monopoly on the Channel Tunnel routes will face competition, promising more options and potentially lower fares for passengers.
The initial Virgin services will link London with popular European hubs including Paris Gare du Nord, Brussels-Midi, and Amsterdam Centraal. Beyond these routes, Virgin plans to expand its network further into France, as well as Germany and Switzerland, bringing fresh connectivity across the continent.
A key focus is on new French stops, with Virgin in talks to serve Charles de Gaulle Airport—France’s busiest airport—a destination Eurostar currently does not reach directly. Passengers travelling with Eurostar must transfer at Lille to access the airport. Additionally, Virgin founder Richard Branson has expressed interest in limited runs to Disneyland Paris, a route Eurostar ceased operating in 2023 to streamline its services.
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Virgin Trains recently secured approval from the UK’s Office of Rail and Road (ORR) to operate from Eurostar’s Temple Mills rail depot in East London. This facility is uniquely equipped to handle the maintenance of high-speed trains running under the Channel. The ORR hailed the decision as a “win for passengers, customer choice and economic growth,” highlighting an expected £700 million in investment and around 400 new jobs.
Branson celebrated this milestone, stating, “It’s time to end this 30-year monopoly and bring some Virgin magic to the route.” Virgin aims to commence cross-Channel operations by 2030. Before then, it will be involved in building and testing trains, securing necessary track access and safety approvals, and negotiating a commercial agreement with Eurostar regarding depot sharing.
In response, Eurostar is reviewing the decision and considering its next steps, emphasizing its commitment to delivering benefits through its new fleet and infrastructure investments.
Rail Minister Lord Hendy welcomed the move, calling it “a significant step forward” that will enhance customer options, improve value, and strengthen sustainable travel links between the UK and Europe. He underscored the benefits of innovation and greener transport that this competition will foster.