City Explorer From St Pancras

Time To Explore!

As much as we love London, escaping the bustle of the capital to explore a postcard-perfect city is a must. Whether you are looking to whizz off for a romantic break to Paris, or want to visit some hidden gems in England, travelling by train from St Pancras leads to many chic cities!

Here’s some top cities to visit this year boarding a high-speed train from St Pancras.

Discover Europe

Hop on one of Eurostar's high-speed trains and discover the cultural delights of some of the world's most famous cities! And with carbon dioxide emissions up to 14 times less than the equivalent flight, travel is guilt-free! Insta-worthy canals in Amsterdam, beer tours in Brussels or eating baguettes by the Seine in Paris - what could be better?

Amsterdam

If you want to immerse yourself in culture there are 44 museums to choose from, many of which are world class, or you can explore the canal ring. If you fancy a shopping break, there are over 6,000 shops and 32 markets to browse. While you're there, make sure get an obligatory Instagram pic by the canals, and try some Dutch pancakes, you won't be disappointed!

Getting there: Amsterdam is under 4 hours from St. Pancras International on Eurostar.

Brussels

Brussels has enough art, culture, and cuisine to keep even the most ambitious explorer busy for days. And that’s before you’ve even started on the beer menu! Although in Belgium, it isn't just beer. There’s amber, blond, brown, dubbel, Flemish red, gueuze, lambic... and many many more! Click here to see five must try Belgium beers suggested by Eurostar.

If you want to explore the great outdoors, Brussels has a green space for everyone. Parc du Cinquantenaire is known for being a very grand park, or you could complete a forest trail in Bois de la Cambre which comes complete with roaming deer, a café only accessible by boat and a nightclub.

Getting there: Brussels is under 2hours from St. Pancras International via Eurostar

Paris

Paris may be a city of classic sights, but it never stands still. However well you know its streets, there’s always something new to discover, from buzz-worthy restaurant openings to freshly renovated museums. Keep touristy and visit The Louvre, Notre Dame and Eiffel Tower - at night it sparkles on the hour! Or, discover some of the lesser seen sights such as L’Oasis D’Aboukir ... you'll thank us later! Eurostar can also transport you direct to Disneyland Paris Park, an unmissable experience no matter your age!

Getting there: Paris Gare du Nord is just 2hours 16mins from St. Pancras International via Eurostar, or be whisked to the Disneyland Paris castle in just 2 hours 49 minutes.

U.K. Escapes

Who said a staycation isn't as exciting as travelling across the water? Wander the cobbled streets of Canterbury or give yourself some retail therapy at Leicester. All these U.K. cities are with 2hours of St Pancras, meaning you spend most of your time exploring, rather than travelling.

London

We couldn't have a City Explorer blog without mentioning the capital of the UK and the home of St. Pancras! From visiting Regent Street to shopping luxury and high street, free museums, palaces and national parks there is something for everyone - and it is all within walking distance of St Pancras International! 

When you arrive in St. Pancras, why not take the Wellbeing Walk to avoid the high levels of pollution found on Euston Road.

Derby

Derby is the UK's most central city, a great place for a cost effective break and a great base to explore nearby Peak District delights. We recommend that you explore the old town, getting to know the friendly locals, visit galleries and the little shops on the cobbled streets of the Creative Quarter and not forgetting to visit one of it's many festivals!

Getting there: Derby is 1 hr 30 minutes from St. Pancras International via East Midlands Railway

Sheffield

Have you visited the Yorkshire gem, Sheffield? Being the only UK city with a national park in it's boundary, Sheffield is an excellent base for exploring the Peak District. From the largest urban glass house in Europe to a stunning Cathedral and museums, there's lots to experience in Sheffield.

Getting there: Sheffield is 2 hours from St Pancras International via East Midlands Railway. 

Canterbury

This enchanting city dates back to the Middle Ages. Wander its narrow, cobbled streets and explore its magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site cathedral. A day in Canterbury wouldn't be complete without indulging in some treats and just a 1 minute walk from the Cathedral you'll find The Fudge Kitchen.

Canterbury boasts a variety of independent shops, boutique hotels, delicious restaurants and unique cafes and bars. So whether you’re out for the day or staying for the weekend, you’ll find so much do in this incredible city.

Getting there: Canterbury is 51 minutes from St Pancras International via SouthEastern Railway

Nottingham 

Follow in Robin Hood’s footsteps amongst the royal hunting grounds of Sherwood Forest and try your hand at archery - have you got skills even Robin Hood would be proud of?

Nottingham also has a thriving independent shopping scene or, if you're a lover of cricket, you can see fast bowlers spin at Trent Bridge test matches. Art lovers can visit the world-class Nottingham Contemporary arts centre. 

Getting there: Nottingham is 1 hour 47 minutes from St. Pancras International via East Midlands Railway.

Leicester

From the medieval charms of the Old Town or the cosmopolitan buzz of the city centre, Leicester has something for everyone. Leicester is also excellent for shopping. You’ll find an array of small boutiques and independent shops at the Lanes, and all your favourite high street brands in the city centre.

Getting there: Leicester is 1 hour 15 minutes from St. Pancras International via East Midlands Railway. 

Journey Times: Please remember that journey times may be slightly longer at weekends and on Bank Holidays. Check journey times on your travel dates direct with the train operating company.