Paris to London by train

How does going from munching on a croissant in Paris at 9:30am to nibbling on a crumpet in London by noon? Thanks to the convenient, comfortable trains from Paris to London brought to us by Eurostar, it is not only possible, but it’s a pleasure! Read on for everything you need to know about this ever-popular route.

Getting from Paris to London by train

Eurostar’s most travelled journey is between Paris and London. Passengers travelling to and from London must pass through the iconic Channel Tunnel. Eurostar’s modern fleet reaches speeds of up to 300 km/h on high-speed lines across France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and Great Britain. Because this is a direct route, the Eurostar Paris to London has no train stops along the journey.

Paris to London train schedule

The quickest journey from Paris to London takes 2 hours and 17 minutes, covering the total distance of 343 kilometres. During the week, the earliest departure time is at 06:56 and the last departure is 21:13. On the weekends, the first trains out of Gare du Nord to London leave at 07:03 and the last train leaves the station at 21:13. On average, 66 trains make this journey from Paris every day.

From Paris to London: by plane or by train?

The cost of tickets from Paris to London depends on the time of year of the trip, how far in advance you book and other variables. When deciding between travelling by train or plane between these two hubs, there are additional factors to consider beyond just the ticket cost.

Convenience of the train

Listen up travellers! You do not have to accept the grind of air travel. Every time you think of booking a plane ticket and start dreading the long lines at security and customs, angry passengers, astronomic baggage fees, endless turbulence, strict refunds and ticket exchanges and don’t even get us started on the delays, just remember that there is another option: rail!

Travelling from Paris to London on a Eurostar train offers many benefits. First, Eurostar trains from London to Paris are more punctual than airlines. Unlike airlines, luggage allowance is much more generous on Eurostar trains. There are no bag weight limits and even the basic ticket allows for 2 pieces of luggage on a Paris to London train at no extra cost.

Also, instead of turbulence, train travel is so smooth that passengers can stretch their legs during travel and even head to the bar car for a snack. Now, what if life happens and you need to reschedule or change a ticket? Don’t worry! Eurostar refund and return policies are much more flexibile than most airlines. And upon arrival, instead of having to work your way through customs and airport traffic, on a Eurostar train, you arrive directly to the city centre, ready to step off the train into the beauty of your final destination.

The environmental impact of flying

As you may already know, plane travel has a significantly greater environmental impact compared to train travel. What you may not be able to guess is just how much worse plane travel is! Travelling by train emits a major 96% lower carbon emissions than flying. Travelling by train gives you more peace of mind.

Paris to London train tickets

The cost of trains from Paris to London depends on the time of year of trip, the class of service and how far in advance from the departure date the ticket is booked. The best way to find the cheapest trains from Paris to London is to book in advance. Train tickets from Paris to London go on sale 14 and a half months in advance. If you want to be notified when tickets go on sale, you can set up a free booking alert with Rail Europe. Once tickets go live, we will send you an email with a link to the ticket so you can purchase your cheap train tickets from Paris to London.

The Paris to London train stations served

Paris Gare du Nord: the Paris train station to London

Your train from Paris to London takes off from the conveniently-located Gare du Nord. Nestled right in the 10th arrondissement of Paris, getting there from anywhere around the city is a quick walk or metro stop away. Gare du Nord serves as the main hub for Eurostar trains travelling between Paris and the UK, and Paris and the continental locations covered by Eurostar, including Amsterdam, Brussels and Cologne.

First opened in 1864, Gare du Nord is a Parisian staple for commuters and tourists alike. Around 2100 trains leave the station each day, with 700,000 passengers passing through each day. But don’t let those staggering numbers deter you. The station itself works like a ticking clock with efficient departures and services. The station has a number of gift stops, cafés, cash machines, luggage storage, bathrooms and Eurostar self-service ticketing machines.

The Eurostar departures area offers travellers free wi-fi for 20 minutes. You can also find restrooms, a tax refund facility, a duty free shop and various locations for coffee and a croissant before your train takes off.

Travelling Eurostar via Gare du Nord

On the day of travel between Paris to London, head to platform 17 of Gare du Nord, where you can directly scan your paper or mobile ticket. When travelling on a Eurostar train, you do not check your luggage, instead you will pass through security with it. Eurostar passengers are allowed to bring their own food, beverages and liquid toiletries onboard. Security consists of three elements, including two passport checks for trains from Paris to London:

• First, pass your luggage through the security machine.
• Second, have your passport checked first by French authorities.
• Then, have your passport checked by UK authorities.

This concludes all of the security checks on your trip. Yes, even when you arrive in the UK! Having your documentation checked in Paris means when you arrive in London, you can just leave the station and enjoy your time in the city.

Once through security, work your way to the departures lounge (you can find more information on your ticket). Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure. Eurostar trains leave Gare du Nord from platforms 3, 4, 5 and 6.

If you have any questions, you will find a diligent station team ready to assist you.

The Business Premier Lounge

If you purchase a Business Premier ticket, you can access the Business Premier lounge located on level 1 in the departure lounge, located after security. Here you will find a number of amenities to ensure smooth travel:

• Comfortable seating
• Free wi-fi and power sockets
• Meeting areas
• Free food and drinks
• Free entertainment

London St Pancras International

Just like Gare du Nord, London St Pancras is a historic station that offers travellers a number of cafes, shops and restaurants. Be sure to take in the architectural wonder from the inside out as this station is a can’t-miss for those visiting London.

The station was almost completely demolished around 75 years ago. Once you get a good look at some of the stunning design features, including the statue of John Betjeman, The Meeting Place Statute, the stunning glass and steel arched roof, the Barlow shed and St Pancras Renaissance Hotel, you will see why it was so important that this local gem was refurbished instead.

The Eurostar platforms at London St Pancras International can be found at platforms 5-10. When disembarking from your train, follow the signs to the exit on the lower level. With trains constantly arriving and departing, you will likely find yourself surrounded by a crowd of people so take time to collect all of your luggage and belongings.

Thousands of locals, commuters and tourists alike choose St Pancras to make connections to destinations across the UK and Europe daily. Thanks to its prime location in the center of London, travellers can easily connect to the London Underground, the bus system, taxis and car shares. Travellers can connect from Paris to London Heathrow by train through London St Pancras. For those who have a connection via Euston station, consider walking from St Pancras as it takes 10 minutes by foot, often less time than if by train.

Paris to London train operators

Eurostar

There is currently only one train operator that provides train service from London to Paris. With the efficiency and comfort Eurostar constantly delivers on this route, there currently is no need for another provider.

Established in 1994, Eurostar now offers high-speed service between the UK, France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany on one single network. In October 2023, Eurostar merged with Thalys to connect the UK and continental routes. Eurostar is loved for its efficiency, arrivals and departments to and from city centres, generous luggage allowance and consistently punctual train services.

Travel documentation and passing through customs

When travelling between France and the UK, you will be required to pass through customs and immigration checks both in Paris and in London. To travel on the Eurostar train, most passengers will need a valid passport. You may also need further documentation, including a visa. To ensure a smooth check in, arrive at least 45 minutes to an hour before your train departure time.

Documentation for travel in 2024

All passengers travelling to the UK with Eurostar will now need to provide specific personal details before boarding, according to new UK government requirements. After booking your ticket with Rail Europe, you will receive an informative PDF with essential details on how to provide this information to Eurostar. It is best to provide this information before your day of travel to ensure check in at the station is as smooth as possible.

Classes aboard a Paris to London train for travel through 3 November

Note that the names and conditions of Eurostar classes of service will change for travel that is on or after 4 November 2024. Review those details in the next section.

Travelling with Eurostar is always a pleasant experience, no matter which class you are travelling in. All passengers on a Eurostar train can enjoy free Wi-Fi, seatside chargers, snacks that can be purchased from the cafe and a view of the English and French countryside from the comfort of your seat.

The Standard Class

This is the most cost-effective class of service, while still delivering a comfortable travel experience. Here is what comes with a Standard Class Eurostar ticket:

• 2 pieces of luggage of up to 85cm + 1 hand luggage with no weight limit
• Drinks and food that are available for purchase onboard at the Eurostar Café
• Free Wi-Fi
• UK + EU plug sockets
• Kids four and under travel free (if seated on an adult’s lap)

The Standard Premium Class

This class of service offers boosted amenities and services compared to the Standard Class. Here is what comes with a Standard Premium Class ticket:

• 2 pieces of luggage of up to 85cm + 1 hand luggage with no weight limit
• A light meal served directly to your seat
• Drinks and food that are available for purchase onboard at the Eurostar Café
• Free Wi-Fi
• UK + EU plug sockets
• Kids four and under travel free (if seated on an adult’s lap)

The Business Premium Class

This is the highest class of service offered by Eurostar; it is equivalent to first class for trains from Paris to London. From check in to arrival, Business Premium travellers feel the difference in elevated service and amenities. Here is what is included in a Business Premium Class ticket:

• Access to fast-track ticket gates and Business Premier Lounges at available locations
• 3 pieces of luggage of up to 85cm + 1 hand luggage with no weight limit
• A three-course meal served directly to your seat and crafted under the culinary direction of Michelin-starred chef Raymond Blanc OBE. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with a request made 48 hours before departure.
• Free wine, champagne, and hot and cold beverages during the journey
• Free Wi-Fi
• UK + EU plug sockets
• Kids four and under travel free (if seated on an adult’s lap)

Refunds and cancellations by train class

With a Standard or Standard Premier flexible ticket, you can change your departure time and date up to a week in advance at no extra charge, only paying the difference in cost and fare. After this period, changes will incur a €30 fee. Tickets in these classes are non-refundable.

Business Premier tickets are the most flexible fares on Eurostar trains from Paris to London. You can exchange or get a refund on any train ticket from Paris to London up until the departure time.

Classes aboard a Paris to London train for travel from 4 November

Eurostar is updating the class of service names and conditions to make travelling and changing tickets smoother. Instead of separating class names and terms and conditions by London and continental routes, now, whether you're headed to London, Cologne or one of Eurostar's seasonal summer or winter destinations in France, as of 4 November, your experience will be streamlined.

Note that all of the new details will apply to travel from 4th November 2024.

Eurostar Standard

(Formerly known simply as Standard)

Eurostar Standard class is typically the most affordable Eurostar ticket. But don’t be deceived by the price as this class provides a comfortable, flexible ride, which includes:

• 2 pieces of luggage of up to 85cm + 1 hand luggage with no weight limit
• Free Wi-Fi
• UK + EU plug sockets
• Kids four and under travel free (if seated on an adult’s lap)
• Drinks and food are available for purchase onboard at the Eurostar Café

Additionally, travellers with a Eurostar Standard ticket can exchange their ticket at no extra cost up until 1 hour before departure. Travellers will only need to pay the fare difference if applicable. Refunds are permitted up until 7 days before the departure of the booked ticket for €25. After this time, tickets are non-refundable. Reminder: All of the new details will apply to travel from 4th November 2024.

Eurostar Plus

(Formerly known as Standard Premier/Comfort)

For a more elevated experience, travellers opt for the Eurostar Plus class of service, which includes all the amenities offered by Eurostar Standard and more spacious seats and additional perks like:

• 2 pieces of luggage of up to 85cm + 1 hand luggage with no weight limit
• A light meal served directly to your seat
• Drinks and food are available for purchase onboard at the Eurostar Café
• Free Wi-Fi
• UK + EU plug sockets
• Kids four and under travel free (if seated on an adult’s lap)

Furthermore, travellers with a Eurostar Standard ticket can exchange their ticket at no extra cost, up until 1 hour before departure. Travellers will only need to pay the fare difference if applicable. Refunds are permitted up until 7 days before the departure of the booked ticket for €25. After this time, tickets are non-refundable.

Eurostar Premier

(Formerly known as Business Premier/Premium)

Eurostar Premier offers travellers the height of luxury on wheels. From seatside service to access to international lounges around Europe, Eurostar Premier is the treat you deserve.

• Access to fast-track ticket gates and Business Premier Lounges at available locations
• 3 pieces of luggage up to 85cm + 1 hand luggage with no weight limit
• A three-course meal served directly to your seat, crafted under the culinary direction of Michelin-starred chef Raymond Blanc OBE. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with a request made 48 hours before departure.
• Spacious seats
• Free wine, champagne, and hot and cold beverages during the journey
• Free newspapers and magazines
• Free Wi-Fi
• UK + EU plug sockets
• Kids four and under travel free (if seated on an adult’s lap)

Travellers can exchange or refund their tickets up until 2 days after the planned departure date. When exchanging tickets, you only have to pay the fare difference if applicable.

Frequently asked questions about this route

How long is the train ride from Paris to London?

The fastest train from Paris to London takes 2 hours and 17 minutes but all of the Eurostar high speed trains from Paris to London arrive in under 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Is there a night train from Paris to London?

There is not currently a night train from Paris to London.

How much is the train from Paris to London?

Tickets from Paris to London start from US$33.00 but tend to increase the closer to the date of travel you book. The average ticket price for trains between Paris and London run US$81 when booked 30 days before travel and US$81 when booked 7 days in advance. The best way to catch this lower price is booking in advance or booking when there is a discount. To be notified of the top train travel promotions, sign up for the Rail Europe newsletter.

What train goes from Paris to London?

Eurostar is currently the single train operator that runs between Paris and London.

Does the train from Paris to London go underwater?

Yes! The train route from Paris to London runs under the English Channel through the world’s largest undersea tunnel. The underground, or should we say underwater, piece of the journey only lasts around 30 to 35 minutes as the Eurostar train speeds along the 50-kilometre railway.

How fast is the train from Paris to London?

Trains that travel between Paris and London can hit speeds of 300 kilometres per hour. When passing under the English Channel, though, trains can only go up to 160 kilometres per hour.

Getting the most out of your trip to London

London, where classic contemporary influences meet historical charm. London, where the medieval Tower of London shares the same skyline as modern skyscrapers like the Shard. London, where the most iconic dishes are fish and chips and chicken tikka masala. Welcome to London, a city that has it all.

With over 170 museums, 21,000 pubs, bakeries, and coffee shops, and 300 languages spoken, this city truly has something to offer for everyone. Let’s start with the activities that are quintessential London and then cover a more off-the-beaten path option to check out once you have checked the classics off your list.

With so many iconic landmarks to see, let the natural body that shaped London physically and historically be your tour guide. Float or walk along the River Thames for views of the Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, the Global Theatre, Big Ben, the London Eye, the Shard, St. Paul's Cathedral, the Greenwich Observatory and so much more.

Although the centre of the city is known as the square mile city, London stretches far beyond. Thankfully, getting around the city is easy! Join the millions of commuters and travellers that move around the city via the Tube, buses, trams and bikes each day. When passing through stations like Paddington, Marylebone and St Pancras, be sure to note the unique architecture, because these stops are pieces of art in their own right.

For travellers looking for a souvenir to take home, London is a shopper's dream. From Bond Street’s high-end retail to neighborhood markets, in classic London fashion, there is something for everyone. To support local chefs, craftspeople and designers, consider purchasing items from the many talented entrepreneurs at Camden Market, Borough Market and Covent Garden’s market.

Want to go beyond the guide book? Here is a more quirky plan perfect for train fans. Take a guided tour of the now defunct former Tube stations, like Aldwych. You will see how this station was once used as a shelter and as storage for priceless works of art from various museums during both world wars. Prepare to learn a lot and to climb a few stairs.

Travelling around England and the United Kingdom

England, the birthplace of the railway, is the ultimate destination for rail enthusiasts. Much of the great history has taken place (and is still taking place) in this region. The first public railway was constructed near West Yorkshire, England. London opened its subterranean network in 1863, making it the oldest underground railway in the world. Throughout the 19th century, the development of trains in England fueled industrialisation, leading to a comprehensive and connected railway system that covers the entire country.

Today, England has over 16,000 kilometres of railway network, offering endless opportunities for exploration. Travellers can conveniently move between major cities including London, Bristol, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool, and into the Cotswolds, Devon and Cornwall regions on trains that run on the same historic tracks laid in the 19th century.

For those venturing beyond England, the interconnected regional rail network of the United Kingdom makes travels to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland not only smooth, but also stunning. Whether you want to take the scenic route to the Scottish Highlands, find a reprieve in the Welsh valleys or soak up the natural beauty and colorful charm of Belfast, getting there by train is the best way to make “getting there” part of the experience.

When planning travel from London by train, you have vast options, so just remember to double-check the station you are departing from, as it can get a tad complicated. For those headed to Paris, Brussels, Disneyland® Paris and Amsterdam, Eurostar trains leave from St Pancras International. Eurostar also offers seasonal trains to the south of France in summer and to the French Alps in the winter. These trains also leave from St Pancras. For those headed to the stunning Scottish Highlands on a day train. Although headed in the same direction, night trains to Scotland depart from Euston.

Don’t fret, though, as all of this information will be included in your confirmation email that you will receive after booking your travel across the United Kingdom and beyond.