Eurostar is set to launch a direct high-speed rail service from London St Pancras to Antwerp, Belgium, starting December 14. The new route will cut the journey time to just over two and a half hours, offering a quicker and smoother trip for UK travellers.
New service details
The service will operate four direct trains daily from London St Pancras to Antwerp, with departure times at 06:16, 08:16, 11:04, and 18:04. Previously, passengers had to change trains in Brussels, making the journey about 3 hours and 15 minutes. The new direct service eliminates the need for a transfer.
Antwerp: a cultural gem
Antwerp, located on the River Scheldt, is a city rich in history dating back to the Middle Ages. It boasts a charming Old Town, stunning architecture, and numerous museums. The Plantin-Moretus Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, houses the world's oldest printing presses and is a highlight for visitors. It has also been recognised in TripAdvisor's Traveller's Choice Best of the Best awards for 2026.
Return journey and tickets
While the outbound journey is direct, the return route requires a connection. Due to a lack of UK border facilities at Antwerpen-Centraal, passengers travelling back to London must book a combined SNCB and Eurostar ticket via eurostar.com, connecting through Brussels-Midi for border and security checks. Tickets for the new service are now on sale.
