The Eurostar requires security checks just like any travel abroad, but the question is: how much time do you need to allow for it, and can you cut long queues in the meantime?
Travelling can be stressful, and because getting the Eurostar means going abroad without even stepping foot in an airport, it can be confusing to know how much time you really need.
All Eurostar trains from London depart from St Pancras International, and while taking the train to Paris or its other European destinations is quite as simple as getting a train to another UK city, it still requires security checks and passport control. With this in mind, you’re expected to allow for some chunk of time before your transport is due to leave and to avoid any unnecessary crowds or long queues.
Eurostar recommend different arrival times for travelling to and from London, depending on which route you take. Typically, for each European destination, there is a standard time they would suggest arriving for, to allow for the most seamless journey, but it’s worth noting that these timings are just “for guidance” and can “sometimes change”.
For those travelling via Eurostar Standard and Eurostar Plus from London St Pancras, it is recommended that you arrive 76 minutes before your train. This allows enough time before the gate closes, which is 30 minutes before your train.
However, if you are travelling via Eurostar Premier or Accessible Travel, you can allow for less time, arriving 45 minutes ahead of time and 15 minutes before gate closures.
If you are planning on returning to London from Paris via the Eurostar, it is recommended that you allow for even more time. Their website suggests arriving between 75-90 minutes prior to your train, despite having the same closure time for departing gates.
To ensure you have a seamless journey and are up-to-date with the relevant information regarding your train, it’s always best to download your ticket to check the most up-to-date recommended arrival time.
As well as this, they strongly advise arriving at the recommended time and not just before the ticket gate closes, as you may not have allowed enough time to go through the mandatory security checks.
As for queue times, this can vary depending on what day you travel, what time of year or, of course, during any major cultural events, but Eurostar are prepared to face them head on.
Their website states: “There may be times when you experience queues at the station. This can particularly happen on peak days or when checks take a bit longer. But don’t worry – our staff will be on hand to guide you through the departures process and ensure you board your train.”
Any checks are all complete before you depart, so after you step onto that train, you can simply hop off with ease when you arrive on the other side.
