Class 395 Javelin
The Class 395 Javelin is the UK's only domestic high-speed train — a Hitachi-built 225 km/h electric multiple unit on HS1, running Southeastern Highspeed services from London St Pancras International to Kent in record time.
Operator
Southeastern Highspeed
Manufacturer
Hitachi (A-train family)
Fleet
29 × 6-car units
Top Speed
225 km/h (140 mph)
Entered Service
December 2009
Line
HS1 + classic Kent network
London Termini
St Pancras Intl, Stratford Intl
Annual Pax
~12 million
Key Highspeed Journeys from St Pancras
| Destination | Journey Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ashford International | 37 min | Connections to Eurostar (limited) and Kent network |
| Canterbury West | 56 min | Half the classic-line time via Tonbridge |
| Dover Priory | 1h 6m | Faster than driving in most conditions |
| Folkestone Central | 52 min | Via Ashford |
| Margate | 1h 28m | Via Canterbury or Ramsgate |
| Ramsgate | 1h 15m–1h 30m | Two routes — via Faversham (faster) or Canterbury |
| Stratford International (Zone 3) | 7 min | Oyster valid this far; Olympic Park interchange |
FAQs
What is the Javelin train?
The Class 395 Javelin is a 140 mph (225 km/h) Hitachi-built electric multiple unit operated by Southeastern Highspeed. Twenty-nine 6-car units run on HS1 between London St Pancras International and Kent — the UK's only domestic high-speed service.
Where does the Javelin go?
From St Pancras International and Stratford International, Javelin services run on HS1 to Ebbsfleet and Ashford International, then onto the classic Kent network to Canterbury West, Dover Priory, Folkestone Central, Ramsgate, Margate, Faversham and Sittingbourne.
How long is St Pancras to Ashford on the Javelin?
37 minutes — half the time of the classic Southeastern service via Tonbridge. The Javelin reaches 225 km/h on HS1 then continues at classic line speed beyond Ashford.
Do Javelin trains accept Oyster?
Only as far as Stratford International (Zone 3) — beyond that you need a paper or e-ticket. A premium fare applies versus classic Southeastern services for the Highspeed routing, but the time saving to Kent is substantial.
Is the Javelin the same as Eurostar?
No — they share HS1 but they are different trains and operators. Eurostar runs international 320 km/h Velaro e320 trains to Europe; the Javelin is a domestic 225 km/h Class 395 to Kent. Both depart from St Pancras International but from different parts of the station.