London-Berlin Trains on the Drawing Board of UK-German Rail Taskforce

London-Berlin trains could soon become a reality as the UK and Germany announced a joint rail taskforce to explore direct services between the two capitals. The initiative, unveiled alongside a bilateral treaty signed by Keir Starmer and Friedrich Merz, revives hopes for better rail links across Europe and greener alternatives to flying.

The UK Department for Transport called the agreement a “significant step forward” toward sustainable and convenient travel. The taskforce of British and German transport experts will tackle challenges like safety regulations, technical compatibility, border controls, and commercial feasibility that have stalled previous London-Frankfurt plans.

Germany has also agreed to allow UK passengers to use passport e-gates at its airports by August, easing post-Brexit travel queues.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander envisioned passengers visiting the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie “direct from the comfort of a train.” She emphasized the economic and environmental benefits, noting that direct London-Berlin trains would create jobs, boost trade, and strengthen ties between the two nations.

While it may take a decade to launch, the UK’s deal with Germany follows a similar agreement with Switzerland signed in May. Eurostar has expressed ambitions for routes to Frankfurt and Geneva, while Virgin and others are exploring cross-Channel services despite hurdles like border security and station capacity.

Currently, passengers travel between London and Berlin in about 10 hours, with changes in Brussels and Cologne. The taskforce aims to cut travel time and improve connectivity.