Eurostar today marks an historic milestone in the expansion of international high-speed rail as it embarks on its inaugural journey from the UK direct to The Netherlands.
The inaugural service will depart from London St Pancras International at 08.31 this morning and tickets for the new route will go on sale from 16:00 for travel from Wednesday, April 4th.
With highly competitive fares from just £35 one-way, a journey time of three hours and one minute to Rotterdam and three hours and 41 minutes to Amsterdam, Eurostar will transform the connection between these key destinations, providing travellers with a compelling, environmentally friendly alternative to the airlines.
Nicolas Petrovic, chief executive, Eurostar, said: “Today’s inaugural service heralds an exciting new chapter in the expansion of high speed rail, strengthening the trading and tourism links between the UK and mainland Europe.
“With just six weeks to go until the start of service we are looking forward to providing customers with a fast, comfortable connection from London to Amsterdam and transforming travel between these important capital cities.”
After extensive preparation, including a comprehensive programme of testing on the Dutch high-speed network, and the building of Eurostar terminals in Rotterdam and Amsterdam, Eurostar will start its commercial service from in April with two trains a day departing at 08:31 and 17:31.
With its seamless city centre to city centre offering, Wi-Fi connectivity and ample space to work or relax, Eurostar’s new service will provide passengers with a stylish, convenient route from the UK to the Netherlands and a transformed travel experience.