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New train routes that could link the UK to four much-loved European destinations

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The increased competition could also mean lower fares for Brits
The increased competition could also mean lower fares for Brits

BRITS heading abroad without wanting to fly can already visit a number of destinations across Europe by train.

France, Belgium and the Netherlands are already accessible to Brits thanks to the Eurostar.

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Two new countries in Europe could open up to Brits by trainCredit: Alamy
The boss of Eurotunnel has predicted London to Germany and Switzerland will be accessible by train
The boss of Eurotunnel has predicted London to Germany and Switzerland will be accessible by trainCredit: Getty

The owner of Eurotunnel, Getlink, has revealed new routes which could launch from the UK within five years.

Eurotunnel currently operates between Folkestone and Calais, and celebrated it's 40th anniversary this year.

Chief executive Yann Leriche said London flights to destinations in Germany and Switzerland could be replaced by train, and has already had conversations with two other operators about new competing routes.

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Taking between five and six hours, this would include Cologne and Frankfurt in Germany, as well as Geneva and Zurich in Switzerland.

He said: “What we see is that suddenly with the work that we have done, we have an appetite and demand from new entrants like never in the past."

It comes as a number of train lines are set to challenge Eurostar, which have been the only provider of routes between London and Europe.

Virgin Trains could soon launch between the UK and Europe, with former boss Phil Whittingham said to be taking on Eurostar.

Virgin Trains ran for more than 20 years from 1997 to 2019, with the routes taken over by Avanti West Coast.

However, a source told the Telegraph the train line has a "strong chance of succeeding" on the new services.

New Dutch operator Heuro could also launch trains between London, Amsterdam and Paris.

This would see 15 daily return services between London and Amsterdam.

And start-up Evolyn has revealed plans to launch train services between London to Paris.

The non-stop routes would link London St Pancras to Paris Nord by 2025.

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The new competition in the market would encourage "more competition and lower fares," Leriche added.

It comes as Eurostar has been forced to scrap a number of train routes in recent months.

The popular London to Disneyland Paris route has been ditched, with Brits now having to change in Paris.

And the London to Amsterdam service has been suspended for at least six months.

If you don't want to leave the UK, here is the "most scenic" train journey where tickets cost just £3.

Zurich (pictured), Geneva, Cologne and Frankfurt could all open up to Brits
Zurich (pictured), Geneva, Cologne and Frankfurt could all open up to BritsCredit: Alamy

Kara Godfrey

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