St Pancras Station Hotel Guide
Lunch in Paris and back in time for evening drinks in London (or visa versa)? The idea is not as crazy as it may sounds, especially now that the Eurostar provides regular and speedy service beneath the English Channel to France and Belgium (and from those two countries, stations throughout Europe). Since November 2007, St Pancras International Station has been the Eurostar's London terminus (before that it was Waterloo Station in South London for the first few years).
Not simply a point of access between London and the Continent, St Pancras is a fantastic destination in its own right. The brand spanking new station features of a variety of well known shops, a fantastic pub, plenty of places to eat and even Europe's longest champagne bar!
Plans for a daily fresh farmers' market are in the works as well! Work is also underway to restore and develop The St Pancras Chambers (once known as the Midland Great Hotel) above the station into a five star Marriot hotel with luxury private apartments on the upper levels. Beyond the activity taking place specifically at the St Pancras site, the station's renovation and new international role have been key in the redevelopment of the entire King's Cross district.
Despite its new lease on life, the history of this well known station should not be overlooked. With its red brick Grade 1 listed Gothic front façade, it is one of London' most recognizable structures. The station was designed and built in the 1860s by William Barlow. Upon completion, its famous train shed (with an arch spanning 240 feet and over 100 feet high at its apex) became the largest enclosed space in the world. During both World Wars, St Pancras served as a meeting place and departure point for troops and for children transported to the countryside for safety.
With so much new development and its status as one of Europe's most important travel hubs, St Pancras International Station is as conveniently located as it is well connected. Literally across the street is King's Cross Station, another major railway terminus and Tube station. King's Cross Station is served by more London Underground lines than any other station.
Nearby Euston Station is another heavily used rail station hardly a two minutes' walk from St Pancras. The station functions as the main rail gateway from and from London to the West Midlands, the North West, North Wales and Scotland. Also nearby is a variety of accommodations for all tastes and budgets. Of particular interest will be the well recommended
Elmwood Hotel in nearby Argyle Square.
From humble bed-and-breakfasts and backpacker hostels to the most lavish of luxury hotels, visitors will find a wealth of options, all easily accessible from this most stunning and convenient of rail stations.
