The incredible new direct train set to link UK to popular capital city

In a landmark move that could transform European travel, the UK and Germany have unveiled plans for a direct high-speed train service linking London to Berlin. This is part of the newly signed Kensington Treaty, a wide-ranging agreement designed to strengthen cooperation between the UK and Germany across transport, defence, immigration, trade, and education. The treaty was signed in London by Sir Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during the latter's first official visit to the UK yesterday, July 17.

Alongside the rail link proposal, the agreement also introduces enhanced border controls, including e-gates for frequent travellers, and expands school exchange programs to foster closer cultural and educational connections. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander highlighted the importance of the new rail link, noting that it could become a viable alternative to air travel within the next decade.

She said: "We're pioneering a new era of European rail connectivity and are determined to put Britain at the heart of a better-connected continent.

"The Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall and Checkpoint Charlie - in just a matter of years, rail passengers in the UK could be able to visit these iconic sights direct from the comfort of a train, thanks to a direct connection linking London and Berlin.

"This landmark agreement - part of a new treaty the prime minister [has signed] with Chancellor Merz today - 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."

As part of the broader partnership, commercial investments exceeding £200 million have been committed in the UK, with the potential to generate over 600 new jobs, while a dedicated UK-Germany Business Forum has been launched to further strengthen economic collaboration between the two nations.

To ensure the seamless operation of the new train service, a bilateral taskforce of transport experts from both countries will be established.

Their mission will be to address technical, security, and border control challenges, paving the way for this ambitious cross-border rail connection.

Industry leaders and rail operators, including Eurostar and potential new entrants, are closely monitoring the initiative as they explore opportunities to expand cross-border rail services.

While direct London-Berlin trains may take several years to launch, the project signals a strong commitment to sustainable, long-distance rail travel across Europe.