Virgin unveils cross-Channel train design, plans 20 daily return services from 2030

Virgin Group has unveiled the first look at its proposed cross-Channel rail service, announcing plans to operate 20 daily return services connecting London, Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam beginning in 2030.

The company has signed an agreement with French rail manufacturer Alstom to supply 12 Avelia Stream high-speed trains, marking a step toward Virgin's planned entry into the international rail market currently served by Eurostar.

The proposed service would add approximately 7.5 million seats annually to the cross-Channel market and create up to 1,000 jobs, according to Virgin.

The trains, which will feature Virgin's signature black-and-red branding, will be capable of travelling at speeds of up to 300 km/h. Alstom will also maintain the fleet under a 30-year contract.

Virgin experience coming to European rail

Virgin plans to draw on its existing travel and hospitality brands to develop the passenger experience.

Virgin Atlantic's Clubhouse lounges will inspire pre-departure and onboard social spaces, while Virgin Voyages will influence the food and beverage offering. Virgin Hotels will inform the development of seating and onboard spaces.

Passengers will also be able to earn Virgin Points through Virgin Red, the company's loyalty program, and redeem them for future journeys, flights, hotel stays, cruises and experiences.

"Virgin has a proud history in UK rail. With our latest venture we are drawing on more than four decades of experience across travel and hospitality to create something genuinely new," said Josh Bayliss, CEO of Virgin Group.

"This time, we'll be connecting London with some of Europe's greatest cities and giving passengers a distinctive new choice in cross-Channel travel."

Potential connections with Virgin Atlantic

Virgin is exploring opportunities to connect its rail services with Virgin Atlantic's international network, potentially allowing passengers arriving in London on Virgin Atlantic flights to continue by rail to France and other European destinations.

For travel advisors, the proposed connections could eventually provide additional options for clients planning multi-city European itineraries. 

However, Virgin has not announced integrated booking arrangements, fares or baggage transfer services.

Virgin has also signed an agreement with Eurostar to use the Temple Mills International maintenance depot in east London.

The company says it is the only prospective new operator through the Channel Tunnel to have secured track access in the UK, with access confirmed until at least 2040.

"We're confident that more journeys between the UK and Europe will be made by train," Bayliss said.

"We're adding capacity for millions more international rail journeys each year, growing the market as a whole."

Further details about the proposed services, trains and passenger experience will be shared in the coming months.

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