Review: Eurostar, Paris to London
(business premier class)

Check us in

More like a boutique hotel than a waiting room at a train station, Eurostar’s Business Premier lounge is tres chic. Too chic for children, me thinks – but nobody bats at eyelid as we wander through. Parquet flooring, high ceilings, original fireplaces and cream leather couches… I almost forget I’m waiting for a train. Help yourself to food and snacks from a large area at the back (much to the delight of said child); drinks include chilled wines and fresh juices. Or fathom out the coffee machine and enjoy a latte. Want to do some work? Grab a space at a communal hot desk and plug in. You can even charge your mobile using a nifty multi-charger. Pick up a magazine (hello, Grazia) and a bottle of water from the fridge before running for your train.

Keep us entertained

The Business Premier carriages are spacious with plush red carpet and dark grey seats. Seats are large with plenty of leg room, padded head rests, coat hooks, drink holders, tables and sockets for firing up your laptop. Connected? Scroll through the list of entertainment which you can feed through to your iPad or laptop – think movies, games, music and more. There’s a separate entertainment section for kids with a wide choice of age-appropriate stuff for them to watch. One thing: no matter how young your child is, you must pay a child’s fare if you don’t want them sitting on your lap.

Feed us

Within minutes of departing Paris, a drinks trolley comes through offering free drinks – you can have a glass of Champagne or a soft drink. Just 30 minutes’ later and lunch is served. Business Premier passengers receive a tray with a starter and dessert on it and a menu of main course choices designed by Raymond Blanc. I loved my cold trout with crispy radish and fennel, served with a white wine from Bordeaux. All meals are a white napkin, silver cutlery affair – a smart elevation from British Rail’s first class where you’re get a cup of horrible coffee and a bag of crisps. My son thoroughly enjoyed his burger and chips served by chirpy staff.   

Verdict

With Eurostar trains reaching a dizzying 347kph, you’ll find yourself in London in just two hours  - hardly long enough to enjoy all that’s on offer. Bravo Eurostar; go and hang your head in shame British Rail.
9/10