Between early July and September every year there are special Eurostar to Avignon trains from St Pancras International Station in central London. These services stop at Ashford International Station in Kent, go through the Channel Tunnel and at speeds approaching 186mph cover the distance in a little less than six hours.

Passengers using Eurostar to Avignon are treated to a comfortable journey with lots of space, comfortably padded seats and minimum noise. Eurostar to Avignon trains have two first class choices, which have a meal and beverages included in the cost of the ticket. Each Eurostar train has two buffet cars where sandwiches, snacks, beer, wine and soft drinks can be bought.

St Pancras Station is within easy reach of most locations in southern England. Although passengers have to check in at least one hour before travel, the central location of St Pancras and good journey duration is comparable to the amount of time spent taking the plane. Eurostar to Avignon is also a cheaper and more environmentally friendly way of getting to southern France.

Attractions such as the 14th century Papal palace, museums, Notre Dame des Doms cathedral, the remains of Avignon Bridge, and numerous restaurants are in or near the old city. Narrow alleys surrounding the cathedral are packed with boutiques and shops where local produce and wine, antiques, crafts and Provencal’s celebrated figurines are found.

Avignon is a popular tourist destination for culture and history buffs as well as gourmands and wine connoisseurs. Avignon Central is a convenient station for onward rail travel to the Cote d’Azur, Marseille and Languedoc. Avignon Central Station is just south of the mediaeval walls which enclose the old city quarter.