Eurostar has taken a significant step toward establishing a direct rail connection between London and Switzerland by signing a partnership agreement with French rail operator SNCF Voyageurs and Swiss train company SBB. The agreement, finalized this week, sets the stage for developing a new service linking London St Pancras directly with major Swiss cities.

Currently, London ranks as the top flight destination from Switzerland, underscoring the potential demand for a rail alternative. The proposed train route could substantially reduce travel times, with journeys expected to take approximately five hours to Basel, five and a half hours to Geneva, and six hours to Zurich when departing from central London.

With the agreement in place, the three rail companies will now focus on assessing potential timetables and operational logistics to bring the service to fruition. The collaboration reflects ongoing efforts to expand international rail travel options across Europe, providing a more sustainable and convenient alternative to air travel.

No detailed timeline for the launch has been announced, and the partners have emphasized that further studies and planning are necessary to ensure the route's feasibility. If successful, the service could mark a milestone in cross-border rail connectivity, reducing reliance on short-haul flights between the UK and Switzerland.