Trains from Lille to London

Departing from Lille Europe train station

Lille Europe station is served by TGV trains to Paris, Strasbourg and Marseille, and TER trains to the cities of Dunkirk, Boulogne and Arras. It’s also a departure point for Thalys trains to Brussels or Amsterdam, and the Eurostar to Brussels or London.

The station consists of a large hall where you'll easily find something to eat. As it’s located near the Euralille shopping centre, there’s also the opportunity for a quick shopping trip before you take your train.  

Like any other French station, the Lille Europe train station is equipped with automatic ticket machines, a currency exchange and cash withdrawal points (near the Eurostar departures). You'll also find a luggage locker and lost property office in the station.  

As Lille is close to Belgium, Lille Europe station offers shuttles to Charleroi airport, or you can travel on Ouibus or Flixbus coaches there too.

The journey

Before boarding the train, you’ll have to pass a baggage and identity check. I’d recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before your departure time as Eurostar will charge you an extra fee if you’re late.

Once you’re through security, you arrive at a waiting room where you can relax and eat. There’s also a small currency exchange office and a toilet that’s free to use. Escalators and lifts will take you to the Eurostar docks once your train has been announced.

Once on the platform, you’ll find carriage numbers on the digital screens located on the doors of the train. Your seat will be just as easy to find as the numbers are right above the seats. Don’t forget to leave your bulky luggage in the luggage racks at the end of each car. Smaller suitcases and bags can go on the shelf above your seat.

The seating in Second Class is incredibly comfortable and reclining. There’s also a removable table, a footrest, a power socket and a small net in which you’ll find the Eurostar magazine Metropole. It’s worth having a read through as it contains articles on the various destinations Eurostar travel to, but maybe most importantly... the menu for the onboard Café Métropole. You’ll find this bar in the middle of the train, serving hot meals, snacks and drinks.

Arriving in London

After 1h 28m, my trip ends at London St Pancras International Station, one of London's largest train stations. From St Pancras, you can access National Rail, the UK's rail network. Train companies that run services from this station include Thameslink, Southeastern and East Midlands Trains.  

The Underground lines (Northern Line, Piccadilly Line, Hammersmith & City Line, Circle Line, Metropolitan Line and Victoria Line) and the famous red double-decker buses will take you anywhere in the British capital. You’ll find many hotels and restaurants close to the station, suitable for all budgets. Shops inside the station include Ted Baker, Chanel, Mac, L'Occitane and Kate Spade. If you’re looking for food, Ready to Eat or The Daily Bread are ideal for breakfast or a sandwich. You’ll also find famous coffee shops like Starbucks and Costa, to enjoy hot or cold drinks.

National Rail ticket terminals are located near the entrance to the Thameslink platforms, as well as luggage lockers and free toilets. The Eurostar ticket office is located in the entrance hall to the Eurostar platforms near the currency exchange. Escalators and elevators are available at either end of the station to access the London Underground.  

Madame Tussauds, the London Eye, Big Ben, Piccadilly Circus and Oxford Street are just some of the attractions you can visit while in London. I’m personally fond of large green spaces like Hyde Park or Richmond Park. Don’t hesitate to check it out and say hello to the deer for me!

About Estelle

Estelle is one of our trusted, hand-picked travel writers. The information for this article was recorded first-hand, based on her own genuine experience of the journey.