Eurostar Channel Tunnel: The Train 🚄🚶

Why the Eurotunnel is not open to pedestrians

The Channel Tunnel is only designed for shuttle trains carrying vehicles. There are no platforms, seating areas or safe walkways inside the tunnel itself. Foot passengers cannot board LeShuttle. That is why Eurostar operates as a separate train service with its own stations and platforms.

Eurostar destinations and journey times

Eurostar connects London St Pancras International with major European cities. Direct trains include:

• London to Paris in about 2 hours 20 minutes, tickets from around £39 one way when booked in advance. (Omio, The Trainline)
• London to Brussels in about 2 hours, fares from about £39 one way. (Omio, The Trainline)
• London to Amsterdam in just under 4 hours, tickets from roughly £54 one way. (Omio, The Trainline)

In addition, there are direct trains to Disneyland Paris (Marne la Vallée Chessy) in around 3 hours, and seasonal services to the Alps in winter.

Because customs and security checks are carried out before boarding in London, you arrive in Europe ready to continue your trip without further passport control.

Tickets and classes

Eurostar offers three main ticket types.

Standard is the entry level fare with access to comfortable seats and the onboard café bar. Tickets booked early often start from £39 one way.

Standard Premier gives larger seats, more space, a light meal served at your seat and access to a quieter carriage.

Business Premier is aimed at frequent business travellers with fully flexible tickets, a three course meal, priority check in, lounge access and dedicated customer service.

You can book tickets for Eurostar at Omio or The Trainline.

Onboard experience

Travelling on Eurostar feels similar to other modern long distance trains, with the added benefit of speed and direct city centre! (Amsterdam or Paris) arrival.

• Luggage: Each passenger may bring two large bags and one smaller item. There is no weight limit but you must be able to carry your own luggage. Read more about luggage.
• WiFi and charging: Free WiFi is available on most trains, along with power sockets at every seat.
• Food and drink: A café bar is available in all classes, selling drinks, snacks and hot meals. Standard Premier and Business Premier include food served at your seat.
• Pets: ⚠️ Only assistance dogs are allowed. If you want to travel with a pet, you must use the Eurotunnel car service or ferries.
• Bicycles: Folding bikes can be taken on board, larger bikes may need to be booked as registered luggage.

Many passengers are surprised that the Channel crossing itself feels like any other rail tunnel. You barely notice that the train is under the sea.

How to board and what to expect at St Pancras

Eurostar operates from a dedicated terminal at London St Pancras International. Signs inside the station clearly mark the Eurostar departure area.

• Arrive at least 45 minutes before departure, or 60 minutes if travelling at peak times.
• Ticket gates close 30 minutes before departure.
• Security and passport checks are carried out before you enter the departure hall.
• Facilities include cafés, shops and seating areas.

Once your platform is called, boarding is fast and efficient.

Ferries as an alternative for foot passengers

If you prefer not to take the train, some ferry routes allow foot passengers. These include Dover to Calais, Newhaven to Dieppe, and Portsmouth to Caen. Crossing times vary from 1.5 to 4 hours. The main advantage is price, with some foot passenger tickets costing less than £30. The disadvantage is that ports are often far from major cities, so you need extra train or bus connections after arrival.

Eurostar vs ferry: a comparison

Tips for saving money

• Book as early as possible. The cheapest fares sell out quickly.
• Be flexible with travel times. Midweek and early morning trains are generally more affordable.
• Consider taking an indirect journey with a change in Brussels if direct trains are sold out.
• For Disneyland Paris trips, compare direct Eurostar fares with packages that include hotel and park tickets. We've written quite a lot about this.

Common Eurostar questions

Can I walk through the Channel Tunnel?
No, it is not open to pedestrians. Only Eurotunnel shuttle trains with vehicles and Eurostar passenger trains use the tunnel.

Do I notice the tunnel section?
No more than any other underground rail tunnel. The underwater section lasts about 20 minutes.

Can I take food on board?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks. There is also a café bar selling snacks and meals.

Can I take my dog?
Eurostar only allows assistance dogs. For other pets, use the Eurotunnel car train or a ferry service.

Where does Eurostar arrive in Paris?
At Gare du Nord, located in the city centre, with direct metro and RER connections.

Why Eurostar is a good option

If you are travelling from the UK to France without a car, Eurostar is the fastest and most practical choice. In just over two hours you can be in the heart of Paris, with other direct routes to Brussels, Amsterdam and Disneyland Paris. Ferries remain an option for those who want cheaper fares, more time to relax, or who need to travel with pets. For most foot passengers, Eurostar provides the most efficient way to cross the Channel.