In a significant step towards improving cross-border transport, the United Kingdom and Germany have agreed to explore a direct passenger train service between London and Berlin. The move is expected to reshape travel patterns for tourists, business travellers, and rail operators alike.
Under a bilateral treaty signed on July 17, 2025, the two governments concluded to establish a joint taskforce that will examine how to introduce direct rail connectivity between the countries within the next decade.
The UK Department for Transport said the partnership could support tourism, create jobs, and stimulate bilateral trade, while aligning with long-term climate goals.
Governments form joint taskforce
The joint taskforce will include transport and infrastructure experts from both governments. It will review technical, legal, and commercial requirements, such as safety standards, track access, security screening, and post-Brexit border controls.
Officials stated the goal is to “break down barriers” that currently prevent long-distance passenger services between the UK and mainland Europe beyond Paris and Brussels.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander 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.”
“This landmark agreement… 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,” she added.
Faster alternative to air travel
If implemented, the direct link could reduce journey times and eliminate the need for multiple transfers. Currently, passengers travelling from London to Berlin typically need to change trains in Paris or Brussels, with total travel time ranging from nine to ten hours.
A non-stop route could make rail travel more competitive with short-haul flights and appeal to those seeking lower-emission alternatives. The government said the project aligns with its Plan for Change, a long-term strategy to strengthen international transport links and promote sustainable mobility.
The UK-Germany plan follows a similar agreement signed earlier this year with Switzerland to explore a direct rail service between London and Zurich.
Boost for travel, jobs, and trade
The government said the proposed rail route aligns with its Plan for Change, a broader policy aimed at expanding international travel links and encouraging economic growth. Tourism bodies and business leaders have welcomed the news, noting that a direct route could drive more visitors to both countries and ease cross-border commerce.
British and German businesses would benefit from better access to markets, and the new route could encourage long-term investment.
As per Euro News, this initiative builds on an earlier UK agreement with Switzerland to explore direct rail services to Zurich. The UK is aiming to position itself as a hub for cleaner and more efficient European travel.
Officials said enhancing rail links is key to meeting climate targets, reducing reliance on short-haul flights, and offering passengers more sustainable options.
While no timeline for service launch has been confirmed, the formation of the taskforce marks a formal beginning of cross-border cooperation on this project. Millions of passengers could eventually benefit from quicker and more convenient travel options across Europe.