A ‘landmark’ partnership between the UK and Germany will ‘explore a direct rail link’ between London and a stunning EU city dripping in history and culture – but it won’t happen any time soon
Millions of passengers could benefit from new trains connecting Brits to yet another European hotspot – but there’s a catch. In what has been described as a ‘landmark’ partnership, the UK and Germany have unveiled a joint taskforce to ‘explore a direct rail link’ between the two countries.
The move, announced as part of the bilateral treaty to be signed by Keir Starmer and Friedrich Merz, will see the nations break down logistical barriers stagnating European connectivity and establish the necessary border and security controls for direct long-distance rail passenger services.
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It aims to provide an effective route linking London to Berlin, the capital and largest city of Germany renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture and vibrant nightlife. Here, you’ll find the Holocaust memorial, the Berlin Wall’s graffitied remains, and the 18th-century Brandenburg Gate.
However, it appears the new route won’t be launching any time soon, and could take as long as 10 years to get up and running. While the exact demand for a direct train from London to Berlin isn’t clear, the route will provide a greener way of travelling than flying.
Currently, travelling from London to Berlin via train takes around 10-11 hours, and includes stopovers in both Brussels and Cologne. “We’re pioneering a new era of European rail connectivity and are determined to put Britain at the heart of a better-connected continent,” said Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander.
“This landmark agreement – part of a new treaty the Prime Minister signed with Chancellor Merz – has the potential to fundamentally change how millions of people travel between our two countries, offering a faster, more convenient and significantly greener alternative to flying.”
The politician went on to explain how a new taskforce will help bring the two nations ‘closer together’ as well as create new opportunities for tourism, business and cultural exchange. She described the economic potential as ‘enormous’, adding: “A direct rail link would support the creation of jobs and strengthen the vital trade links that underpin our economic relationship with Germany.
“British businesses will have better access to European markets, whilst German companies will find it easier to invest and operate in the UK. This is central to our Plan for Change – breaking down barriers, thinking boldly about the future, and making long-term decisions that better connect Britain to the world. Working with Germany, we’re building bridges between our people and paving the way for a more sustainable, connected future.”
The news comes hot off the heels of Eurostar’s announcement that it will soon whizz Brits over from London to Frankfurt, home to one of the largest financial hubs in Europe, as well as launching direct routes from London to Geneva in Switzerland. As previously reported, the railway firm is ramping up its offerings as part of a major €2 billion (approximately £1.7bn) investment- following its impressive 2024 earnings.
“Despite the challenging economic climate, Eurostar is growing and has bold ambitions for the future,” Eurostar’s CEO Gwendoline Cazenave said. “Our new fleet will make new destinations for customers a reality – notably direct trains between London and Germany, and between London and Switzerland for the first time. A new golden age of international sustainable travel is here.”
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