Travelling with Kids

Children's Fares

• Under 4: Free — travel on a parent's lap with no ticket needed. No seat is provided.
• Ages 4–11: Reduced child fares on all ticket classes. Typically around 50–70% of the adult price.
• Ages 12+: Full adult fare.

Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult (18+). Children aged 12–15 can travel alone with written parental consent.

Seating for Families

When booking, look for table seats — groups of four seats facing each other around a shared table. These are ideal for families: kids can draw, play cards, eat snacks, or watch a tablet. You can usually select these during the booking process.

Pushchairs & Car Seats

Pushchairs, buggies, and child car seats are all carried free of charge and don't count towards your luggage allowance. Folding pushchairs can be stored in the luggage areas at the end of each carriage. Non-folding pushchairs can go in the same area but take up more space — fold if you can.

Entertainment on Board

There's free Wi-Fi on board for streaming and browsing. Bring tablets, downloaded shows, headphones, colouring books, and snacks. The tunnel section (about 35 minutes) can be exciting for kids the first time — point out the moment you enter and exit.

The café bar car sells some child-friendly snacks and drinks, though bringing your own is usually easier and cheaper.

Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Arrive early — give yourself 90 minutes so the check-in process doesn't feel rushed with kids in tow.
• Pack snacks — there are no liquid restrictions, so bring whatever you like.
• Toilet before boarding — the station toilets are easier to use than the on-board ones with small children.
• Explain what's happening — "we're going under the sea on a train!" is genuinely exciting for most kids.
• Book Standard class — best value for families, and children are equally comfortable.