Can You Drive From the UK to France – Channel Tunnel & Eurotunnel

Dreaming of crossing the English Channel for a grand French adventure? Want to cruise the autoroutes in a road trip UK to France from the cliffs of Dover to the lavender fields of Provence?

You can drive from the UK to France with a bit of preparation. Let’s hit the road and travel from England to France!

How Long Does It Take To Drive From England To France?

Here’s a look at projected drive times to France from major UK cities.

Fastest Route From Major UK Cities To France

• London to Paris by car Eurotunnel: Approximately 8 hours nonstop
• Manchester to Lyon: Roughly 11 hours with minimal stops
• Liverpool to Nice: Around 18 hours total over 2+ days

Reach France: UK to Calais Takes?

The quickest channel crossing route is from Dover to Calais, only about 30 miles apart. This short distance translates to:

• 90-120 minutes by ferry
• Just 35 minutes via the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle train

You can be in France before you know it!

How to travel from UK to France by car

To travel from the UK to France by car, you can use the Channel Tunnel (Eurotunnel). You drive your car onto a train at Folkestone, Kent, and the train transports you through the tunnel to Calais, France, in about 35 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a ferry ride from various ports in southern England to ports in northern France. This journey typically takes 90 minutes to 8 hours, depending on the chosen route.

Things to Know About Driving From the UK To Paris

Here’s the key info for motorways linking London and Paris:

• Route options: M20 to Eurotunnel or M2/A2 to Dover ferry
• Total mileage: 325-340 miles
• Estimated drive time: 7-8 hours nonstop
• Expect tolls on French autoroutes

Leave early and avoid heavy Paris traffic upon arrival.

How Long To Drive Straight From South of France?

MOTORING MILES:

• Dover to Nice: Roughly 940 miles, 15 hours
• Dover to Bordeaux: Approximately 580 miles, 9 hours
• Dover to Toulouse: Around 850 miles, 13 hours

Consider stopping overnight to divide the long journey from Calais.

Visiting France: Taking The Ferry vs. Driving

FERRY PROS:

• More frequent crossings
• Option to walk around onboard
• Open deck for fresh air

DRIVING PROS:

• Faster Channel Tunnel car crossing
• No need to leave your vehicle
• Pets can stay in the car

The ferry offers more flexibility for a short 2-hour trip. The Eurotunnel Le Shuttle is the quickest option for those in a hurry.

Using Channel Tunnel: Key Facts and Helpful Tips

Here’s the essential info you need for crossing the Channel via the Chunnel:

Using The Eurotunnel

The Eurotunnel Shuttle allows cars, coaches, and freight trucks to travel the Chunnel rapidly between Folkestone, UK, and Calais, France. Passenger and vehicle trains whisk you 35 miles underground in just 35 minutes!

What is Le Shuttle and How Can I Use It?

Le Shuttle Dover to Calais is the passenger train service through the Channel Tunnel operated by Eurotunnel. You can reserve a ticket only for walk-on-foot passengers or book for a vehicle up to 1.85 meters tall and 2.2 meters wide.

Arrive at the terminal 45 minutes before departure to clear security and customs and load your car onto the shuttle.

Quickest Way From England to France Via Channel Tunnel

Thanks to the Chunnel, you can drive from London to France in around 8 hours instead of 10-12 hours by ferry. The time savings add up!

Crossing The Channel: What You Need To Prepare

Don’t get stopped at check-in – have the following:

• Valid passport
• Ticket reservation
• Proof of vehicle insurance
• Secure all loose items in your car

Is it Possible to Drive the Channel Tunnel: Know The Facts

While vehicles can use the Eurotunnel Shuttle, you cannot drive through the Channel Tunnel. Cars are loaded onto Le Shuttle trains for the 35-minute crossing. Sit back and relax until you arrive in France!

How long does it take to drive through the Eurotunnel?

The journey through the Channel Tunnel (Eurotunnel) takes approximately 35 minutes. However, the total time from check-in to arrival in France is typically around 90 minutes. This includes time for check-in procedures, boarding the train, the tunnel crossing itself, and disembarking on the other side. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time for check-in.

Taking The Drive to France: Tips for a Smooth Journey

Driving to France from UK takes extra preparation. Here are tips for a successful road trip to France:

The Importance of Knowing the French Motorway System

France’s well-developed autoroute system makes driving straightforward, but you’ll want to understand:

• Peage = toll road, blue signs
• Autoroutes = limited access highways
• National roads (N routes) are free but slower

Having cash on hand for péage tolls is highly recommended.

Things To Consider When Taking a Road Trip From England to France

• Inform your insurance provider
• Have documents like driver’s license readily available
• Allow extra time at the border
• Pack an emergency kit

Crossing to France: Key Things You Should Know

Be aware of the following when crossing to France with car:

• Pet passports required with up-to-date vaccinations
• Duty-free alcohol limits – 42 units of beer, 18 units of wine
• Certain food items prohibited from entry

Stopovers: Where to Stretch Your Legs on The Journey

Some top spots to rest on the road to France:

• Canterbury, Kent
• Amiens, France
• Dunkirk, France

Check for hotel availability in advance in busier tourist seasons.

What You Need to Know About French Toll Roads

France’s péage autoroutes charge:

• Around €0.07-0.15 per km traveled
• Pay with cash, debit card, or electronic toll pass
• Video tolling if no booth is available

Having cash avoids hassles if cards aren’t accepted.

Ferry From Dover to Calais or The Eurotunnel?

Which is better for crossing the English Channel – the ferry or the Chunnel? Let’s compare the key considerations:

Choosing the Ferry From Dover: What You Should Know

• Multiple sailings daily; book in advance
• Ticket options: foot passenger, car passage, cabins
• The ferry takes 90-120 minutes

Allow ample connection time onward to your destination.

Take Your Car On The Ferry to France: Steps and Tips

• Arrive at the port at least 45 minutes early
• Queue up for loading instructions
• Secure your vehicle and accompany it on the deck

Relax and enjoy the mini-cruise!

Dover to Calais: The Quickest Ferry Route

The Dover to Calais ships offer the shortest crossing to France at just over 30 miles, typically under 2 hours of transit time. This minimizes your time on the water.

Ferry To St Malo VS Le Shuttle: Which is Better?

• St Malo ferry route takes 8-12 hours
• Le Shuttle crosses in only 35 minutes
• For time-efficiency, Le Shuttle can’t be beat

But if you have time, the St Malo ferry offers a more relaxed pace.

The Best Way To Cross the Channel: Evaluating Your Options

For speed and convenience, the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle is tops. But ferries give you more freedom to move about during the crossing. Choose based on your priorities!

Driving In Northern France: Essential Tips and Guidance

Ready to cruise France’s countryside? Here are my best tips for driving in Northern France:

Get to Normandy: Navigating France’s Countryside

Don’t miss charming Normandy’s highlights:

• Route du Cidre cider road
• Stunning Mont St. Michel island abbey
• D-Day landing beaches

Drive Your Car In France: Traffic Rules and Safety Guidelines

• Stay right except to pass
• Get a safety vest for roadside stops
• Obey speed limits – highways 130 km/h, secondary roads 90 km/h

France by Car: Appreciating the Scenic Routes

Top scenic drives perfect for a leisurely road trip:

• Paradiski Route through Chamonix
• La Route des Cretes in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence
• Route de la Châtaigne in the Ardèche countryside

How to Navigate Through Major French Cities

Tips for tackling busy French cities:

• Use GPS and offline maps
• Study routes to know exit numbers
• Allow extra time to find parking

Everything You Need to Know About Driving in France

• Auto insurance green card is strongly recommended
• Have an International Driving Permit and IDP
• Breakdowns? Use an orange safety vest when stopped.

Eurotunnel Car Routes and Options

When planning your drive from France to England or vice versa, you have several options with the Eurotunnel. The main route connects Folkestone in the UK to Calais in France. This tunnel UK to France is a popular choice for those looking to cross the channel by car.

The Eurotunnel stops in France at Calais, providing easy access to the French motorway network. From there, you can continue your journey to various destinations. Whether you’re planning a drive to France from London or coming from elsewhere in the UK, the Eurotunnel offers a convenient way to start your Continental adventure.

Can You Drive Through the Chunnel?

A common question is, “Can you drive through the Chunnel?” The short answer is no. Your car will be transported while you can’t personally drive in the Eurotunnel. The Channel Tunnel drive involves driving your vehicle onto a specially designed train carriage. Once loaded, you remain in your car during the journey.

This system allows for a quick and efficient crossing to France by car. It’s an ideal option for those who prefer not to deal with the potential seasickness of a ferry journey. The Eurotunnel by car service is particularly popular among travelers who value speed and convenience.

England France Tunnel: A Marvel of Engineering

The England France tunnel, also known as the Channel Tunnel or Chunnel, is a 31.4-mile undersea tunnel linking Folkestone (Kent) in the United Kingdom with Calais in northern France. It’s actually three tunnels: two rail tunnels used for freight and passenger trains and a service tunnel.

While you can’t drive through the English Channel, the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle service transports your vehicle through the tunnel, making it possible to drive from Britain to France with ease. This engineering marvel has transformed travel between the UK and continental Europe since its opening in 1994.

Eurotunnel Freight Driver Info

For those using the Eurotunnel freight service, there are specific procedures to follow. Driver Eurotunnel freight guidelines include:

• Checking in at least 90 minutes before departure
• Ensuring all paperwork is in order, including customs declarations
• Following specific lane guidance for freight vehicles
• Adhering to strict safety regulations during the crossing

Driving in France: What You Need to Know

Once you’ve completed your Channel Tunnel car crossing, you must be prepared for driving in France. Here are some key points for Le Shuttle driving in France:

• Drive on the right side of the road
• Carry essential documents: driver’s license, car registration, insurance
• Be aware of different speed limits and road signs
• It’s mandatory to have a breathalyzer, warning triangle, and reflective jacket in your vehicle

Remember, what you need to drive in France may differ from UK requirements, so it’s essential to be well-prepared before your journey. Now you have all the tools for an epic UK-to-France road trip! Bon voyage!

Still have questions? Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about driving from the UK to France.

Can you drive from England to France?

While you can’t drive across the English Channel, you can take your car from England to France using the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle or ferry service. Your car will be transported across the Channel, allowing you to continue driving once you reach the other side.

How long does it take to get to France from England by car?

The total journey time depends on your starting point in England and final destination in France. For example, a trip from London to Paris typically takes about 5.5 hours on the Eurotunnel (including the crossing) plus another 3 hours of driving in France, totaling around 8.5 hours.

How does the Eurotunnel work for cars?

You drive your car onto a specially designed shuttle train when using the Eurotunnel. You stay in your vehicle during the 35-minute journey through the tunnel. Upon arrival in France (or the UK if traveling in the opposite direction), you simply drive off and continue your journey.

Can you drive across the English Channel?

No, you can’t physically drive across the English Channel. You must either use the Eurotunnel service, where your car is transported on a train or take a ferry, where your car is driven onto and off the boat.

How early should I arrive at the Eurotunnel?

You should arrive at least 45 minutes before your scheduled departure time. You can check in up to 2 hours early if you wish to catch an earlier shuttle, subject to availability.

Is there a road between UK and France?

There isn’t a direct road connection between the UK and France due to the English Channel. The Channel Tunnel provides a rail link but not a road. Vehicles are transported through the tunnel via the Eurotunnel shuttle service.

Can you drive from Britain to France?

You can take your car from Britain to France using the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle service or a ferry. While you don’t drive continuously from Britain to France, these services allow you to travel with your vehicle.

How long is the tunnel between UK and France?

The Channel Tunnel is about 31.4 miles (50.5 km) long, making it the longest undersea tunnel in the world. The tunnel portion under the sea is 23.5 miles (37.9 km) long.

Do you drive through the Eurotunnel?

You don’t drive your vehicle through the Eurotunnel. Instead, you drive onto a shuttle train, which transports your vehicle through the tunnel while you remain inside.

Is there a Eurotunnel foot passenger service?

The Eurotunnel itself doesn’t offer a foot passenger service. Foot passengers typically use the Eurostar train service, which uses the same tunnel but with different trains and terminals.

How does crossing to France with a car work?

When crossing to France with a car, you have two main options: the Eurotunnel or a ferry. With Eurotunnel, you drive your car onto a train. On a ferry, you drive your car onto the boat. In both cases, you must present your passport and any necessary travel documents before boarding.

How long is the channel tunnel in miles?

The Channel Tunnel is approximately 31.4 miles (50.5 kilometers) long. It consists of three tunnels: two rail tunnels, which carry passenger and freight trains, and a service tunnel. The tunnel runs between Folkestone in Kent, UK, and Calais in northern France. About 23.5 miles (37.9 kilometers) of the tunnel are undersea, making it the longest undersea portion of any tunnel in the world.