Thousands of exasperated travellers are scrambling to get to France ahead of the introduction of a ban on UK tourists.
Cross-Channel rail operator Eurostar is urging people to avoid London St Pancras station unless they have a pre-booked ticket and a negative coronavirus test result.
Most of the firm’s train services on Friday were sold out as many people brought their Christmas travel plans forward after the new restrictions were announced on Thursday.
Ferry operators and airlines have also experienced a surge in demand, with remaining seats on flights on sale for more than £600.
French Prime Minister Jean Castex said tough restrictions will be enforced from 11pm UK time on Friday, including a requirement for “compelling reasons” to travel to or from the UK. Trips for tourism or business will not be permitted.
Mr Castex’s office said this is “in the face of the extremely rapid spread of the Omicron variant in the United Kingdom”.
People intending to travel through France to other countries can only continue with their trip if they are remaining in the international area of an airport for under 24 hours. Those allowed to enter France will need to provide evidence of a negative coronavirus test taken less than 24 hours in advance, and must isolate for at least two days.
Travel firms described the tourism ban as a “hammer blow” with thousands cancelling trips.
Eurostar said in a statement that “we understand and fully support” the need for governments to tighten travel rules in the interests of public health, but once a variant is being spread within communities “it is difficult to see what further purpose such restrictions serve”.
The company added: “It is important that they are not in place any longer than is absolutely evidenced and necessary.”
A spokesman for ferry operator Brittany Ferries said: “In the context of an Omicron variant that is passing through the French population as it is in the UK, further border controls seem as unnecessary as they are unwelcome.”
Club Med has cancelled all its departures from the UK to France until and including January 2, while Inghams and Esprit have cancelled departures to France up to and including January 4.
Travel expert Simon Calder called the ban "completely irrational."
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