Eurostar will operate its London-Amsterdam service fully direct to and from the Netherlands from April 30.
The new connection ? direct both ways ? will offer hassle-free travel between these cities.
With fares from ?35 each way, tickets for the direct return journey are available from February 11, for travel from Amsterdam starting on April 30 and from Rotterdam on May 18.
There are currently three outbound services a day from the UK to the Netherlands. The direct inbound journey from Amsterdam to London will start with two services, with the aim of increasing to a third, and then a fourth.
The inaugural service departed Amsterdam Centraal on February 4 at 07:48 am.
Grant Shapps, secretary of state for transport in the UK, said: ?We?re continuing to invest in modern, efficient transport links with the continent so our businesses and tourism industry can flourish. The days of passengers being forced to decamp from the train at Brussels to file through passport control will soon be over, as we look forward to direct, return, high-speed services to Amsterdam and beyond.?
Mike Cooper, chief executive of the rail service company, said: ?Our services from the UK to the Netherlands have proved very popular with over half a million travellers since launch. Our fully direct service marks an exciting advance for high-speed rail and provides consumers with a comfortable, environmentally friendly alternative to the airlines on one of Europe?s busiest leisure and business routes.?
Cora van Nieuwenhuizen, minister of infrastructure and water management in the Netherlands, said: ?The direct connection makes the train journey to London easier and faster. Checks in Brussels will no longer be necessary, saving travellers an hour of travel time. This way the train really becomes a fully-fledged alternative to the plane.?
For more information, go to www.eurostar.com
