East Midland Trains will open the route to London on Monday, April 27 with one train a day, Monday to Friday, in each direction.

The journey to St Pancras terminal will take one hour and 45 minutes and could help the tourist industry and commuters.

David Horne, of East Midlands Trains, said: "It will serve travellers who need to arrive in London in time for a morning business meeting and leisure travellers who want to enjoy a full day seeing the sights of London."

He added: "For the more adventurous, a quick change of platform at St Pancras onto Eurostar services can have you in Paris in time for lunch."

Rutland county councillor responsible for tourism, Peter Jones (Con), said: "The timings are perfect for anybody in the London area to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a weekend break in Rutland.

"Those who will hopefully benefit directly include traders, accommodation providers and our superb tourist attractions.

"We're very pleased to see this initial service getting the go-ahead and hope it won't be too long before additional weekday and weekend services are added."

Chairman of tourism group Discover Rutland Ed Burrows said: "With the Euro being so strong against the pound, hopefully we will see a lot of visitors from the Continent."

The service may also help house prices.

Vernon Moore, of Moores Estate Agents said: "We have already seen improving desirability in the area because of rumours the service would start."

London commuter Abigail Haughton, 35, of Cold Overton Road, Oakham, says the timing of the service and cost may decide how successful it is.

She said: "Having just one train a day doesn't give us any flexibility and the 6.15am start is pretty hardcore but the advantage is that you can sleep and don't have to change trains."

The service, which will operate via the Harringworth Viaduct, will call at Oakham at 6.15am and arrive at St Pancras at 7.55am. The return journey will leave at 6pm and arrive at 7.42pm. It will stop at Corby, Kettering, Wellingborough, Bedford and Luton on route.

Oakham last had a train link to London in the Sixties.