best day to travel on eurotunnel

The Cheapest Time to Travel on Eurotunnel

The Cheapest Time to Travel on Eurotunnel: Tips and Strategies for Saving Money

Planning a trip can be exciting, yet the costs can quickly add up. One significant expense to consider is your mode of transport. For those in Europe, the Eurotunnel can be an affordable and convenient option to cross borders. But when exactly is the cheapest time to travel on Eurotunnel ?

Most travellers would agree that travelling during off-peak times can result in some savings. Off-peak hours, such as late at night or in the early morning, often have fewer passengers, which can lead to reduced ticket prices. Moreover, travelling midweek as opposed to the weekend can also help you cut costs.

So, if you’re looking for the cheapest time to travel on the Eurotunnel, consider planning your trip during off-peak hours and in the middle of the week. It’s a simple strategy that could save you a substantial amount of money.

Understanding Eurotunnel

What is eurotunnel.

Eurotunnel, also known as the Channel Tunnel, is a remarkable engineering feat that connects the United Kingdom and France. It is an underwater tunnel that stretches for 31 miles (50 kilometres) beneath the English Channel. This modern marvel provides a direct rail link between the two countries, offering a convenient and efficient mode of transportation for both passengers and vehicles.

Benefits of Travelling on Eurotunnel

Travelling on Eurotunnel comes with numerous advantages, making it a popular choice for those crossing between the UK and France. Let’s explore some of the key benefits:

• Speed and Efficiency : Eurotunnel offers a quick and seamless journey, with travel times as short as 35 minutes. Unlike traditional ferry crossings, there are no weather-related delays or cancellations, ensuring a reliable and prompt departure.
• Flexibility : With up to 4 crossings per hour and operations running round the clock, Eurotunnel provides flexibility in choosing your travel time. Whether you prefer an early morning departure or a late-night crossing, Eurotunnel accommodates various schedules, allowing you to plan your journey conveniently.
• Convenience : Eurotunnel allows you to bring your vehicle on board, eliminating the need for complicated transfers and keeping you in control of your transportation throughout the journey. This is particularly advantageous for families, those with pets, or those who need to transport large items.
• Comfort : The Eurotunnel trains are designed with passenger comfort in mind. You can relax in spacious seating areas, enjoy onboard amenities, and even grab a bite to eat at the onboard cafes and restaurants.
• Cost-Effective : Eurotunnel offers competitive pricing, especially when compared to the cost of flights. Additionally, booking in advance can often lead to even greater savings, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers.

Eurotunnel provides a safe and reliable means of transportation, allowing you to experience the ease of travel between the UK and France. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway, a business trip, or a family vacation, Eurotunnel offers a range of benefits that make it a convenient and affordable choice.

For more information on Eurotunnel, you can visit their official website here .

Stay tuned for the next section where we will delve into the best time to travel on Eurotunnel for the cheapest fares.

Factors that Affect Eurotunnel Prices

When planning a trip through the Eurotunnel, it’s important to consider the factors that can impact the prices. By understanding these factors, you can make the most cost-effective decisions for your travel. Here are three key factors to keep in mind: Peak Season vs. Off-Peak Season, Day of the Week, and Time of Day.

Peak Season vs. Off-Peak Season

One of the primary factors that influence Eurotunnel prices is the season in which you plan to travel. During peak season, which typically falls during the summer months and major holidays, demand for Eurotunnel tickets is high. As a result, prices tend to be higher during this period. On the other hand, the off-peak season, which includes the quieter months, offers more affordable fares.

If you have flexibility in your travel dates, consider planning your trip during the off-peak season to take advantage of lower prices. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also experience fewer crowds, making for a more relaxed journey.

Day of the Week

The day of the week you choose to travel can also impact the cost of your Eurotunnel ticket. Generally, weekdays tend to have lower demand compared to weekends. As a result, ticket prices are often lower on weekdays, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to save some money.

If your travel plans allow for flexibility, consider booking your Eurotunnel ticket for a weekday. This can help you secure a more affordable fare and potentially save you some pounds.

Time of Day

Another factor that affects Eurotunnel prices is the time of day you choose to travel. Peak travel times, such as early mornings and evenings, often have higher demand and therefore higher prices. However, midday and late-night journeys tend to be less busy, resulting in more competitive fares.

To find the best deals, consider opting for off-peak times when fewer people are likely to be travelling. Not only can this help you save money, but it can also give you a more relaxed and enjoyable travel experience.

To get the most accurate pricing information for your specific travel dates and vehicle size, it’s recommended to use Eurotunnel’s fare finder tool. This tool takes into account various factors, including your vehicle’s dimensions and any additional accessories, to provide you with a more accurate quote.

Keep in mind that all tickets are subject to availability, and fares quoted are usually valid if booked in advance. Booking early can often lead to better deals and increased availability.

Remember, by considering factors such as peak season vs. off-peak season, the day of the week, and the time of day, you can make informed decisions that can help you save money on your Eurotunnel journey. Happy travels!

Check out Eurotunnel’s fare finder

Learn more about Eurotunnel

Plan your Eurotunnel journey

Tips for Finding the Cheapest Time to Travel on Eurotunnel

When planning a trip through the Channel Tunnel, it’s always a good idea to find the cheapest time to travel. By being flexible with your travel dates and taking advantage of special offers or promotions, you can save a significant amount of money. Here are some tips to help you find the most affordable time to travel on Eurotunnel.

Research and Compare Prices

Before booking your Eurotunnel journey, it’s essential to conduct thorough research and compare prices. Different times of the year, days of the week, and even specific hours can have varying rates. By checking multiple sources, such as the official Eurotunnel website, travel agencies, and third-party booking platforms, you can identify the best deals and lowest prices available.

Flexibility with Travel Dates

Being flexible with your travel dates can often result in significant cost savings. Weekends and peak holiday periods tend to be more expensive, as there is a higher demand for Eurotunnel crossings. If possible, consider travelling during weekdays or outside of school holiday periods. By adjusting your schedule, you may find cheaper rates and have a more pleasant and relaxed journey.

Consider Midweek Travel

Travelling on weekdays, particularly Tuesdays and Wednesdays, can be considerably cheaper than weekends. This is because fewer people tend to travel during the middle of the week, leading to lower demand and lower prices. If your schedule allows it, consider planning your Eurotunnel trip for a midweek departure to take advantage of these reduced rates.

Early Morning or Late Night Departures

Another way to save money on Eurotunnel travel is by opting for early morning or late night departures. These off-peak times often have lower prices, as fewer people choose to travel during these hours. While it may require some adjustment to your sleep schedule, the savings can be worthwhile. Additionally, travelling during quieter times can result in less congestion and shorter waiting times.

Take Advantage of Special Offers or Promotions

Eurotunnel frequently offers special offers and promotions, providing opportunities for discounted travel. Keep an eye out for these deals, as they can help you secure the cheapest fares. Subscribe to Eurotunnel’s newsletter or follow their social media accounts to stay informed about any upcoming promotions. By being proactive and taking advantage of these offers, you can save money on your Eurotunnel journey.

Travel during Low-Demand Periods

If your travel plans allow for flexibility, consider travelling during low-demand periods. These periods typically coincide with off-peak seasons, such as early spring or late autumn. During these times, Eurotunnel rates can be significantly lower, making it an ideal opportunity for budget-conscious travellers. By planning your trip during these periods, you can enjoy the benefits of both cost savings and less crowded crossings.

Remember, finding the cheapest time to travel on Eurotunnel requires some research, flexibility, and awareness of special offers. By implementing these tips and being proactive in your search, you can secure the most affordable fares and make your journey through the Channel Tunnel a budget-friendly experience.

Related Websites:

• Eurotunnel Official Website

Planning Ahead for Cheaper Travel

One of the best ways to save money when travelling on the Eurotunnel is to plan. By being proactive and making certain choices, you can secure cheaper fares and have a smoother journey. In this section, we will explore some strategies for planning and getting the most value for your money.

Booking in Advance

Booking your Eurotunnel tickets well in advance can lead to significant cost savings. By securing your tickets early, you can take advantage of early bird discounts and promotional offers. The Eurotunnel website often features special deals for those who plan, so it’s worth checking regularly to find the best prices.

Travelling during Shoulder Seasons

Another way to save on Eurotunnel travel is by choosing to go during shoulder seasons. Shoulder seasons are the periods just before or after the peak tourist seasons when travel demand is lower. By travelling during these times, you can often find better deals and enjoy a quieter journey.

For example, if you’re planning a trip to Europe, consider avoiding the summer months when prices are typically higher. Instead, travel in spring or autumn to take advantage of lower fares and fewer crowds.

Avoiding Public Holidays and School Breaks

Public holidays and school breaks are peak travel periods, which means prices for Eurotunnel tickets are usually higher during these times. If your schedule allows for flexibility, try to avoid travelling during these busy periods.

By choosing to travel outside of public holidays and school breaks, you can secure cheaper tickets and experience a more relaxed journey. Additionally, you’ll have a better chance of finding available departure times that suit your needs.

Planning can make a significant difference in the cost and convenience of your Eurotunnel travel. By booking in advance, travelling during shoulder seasons, and avoiding public holidays and school breaks, you can maximise your savings and enjoy a smoother journey.

Remember, it’s always a good idea to check the Eurotunnel website for the latest deals and promotions. By staying informed and planning, you’ll be well on your way to a budget-friendly and enjoyable Eurotunnel experience.

If you’re looking for the cheapest time to travel on Eurotunnel, there are a few factors to consider. According to the information found on the Eurotunnel website, the quieter times tend to be from 00:00 to 06:00 and 22:00 to 00:00 from Folkestone to Calais, and from 00:00 to 08:00 and 22:00 to 00:00 from Calais to Folkestone. However, it is important to note that these times are subject to change and availability.

In addition, it may be worth considering midweek travel as it is generally cheaper than travelling on Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays. This is because weekends are typically busier with more people looking to travel.

It’s also worth keeping an eye out for any special offers or promotions that Eurotunnel may have. For example, other travellers have mentioned that Brittany Ferries offered a deal where if you bought three camping cheques, you could get the caravan for free on the ferry.

Overall, while there may not be a definitive answer to the cheapest time to travel on Eurotunnel, considering quieter times, midweek travel, and any available promotions can help you find the most cost-effective option for your journey.

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Eurotunnel - Driving "Le Shuttle" Through the Channel Tunnel

The withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union (a move known as "Brexit") formally occurred on January 31, 2020. Following that departure is a transition period lasting until December 31, 2020, during which the U.K. and E.U. will negotiate the terms of their future relationship. This article has been updated as of the January 31st withdrawal, and you can find up-to-date information about details of the transition on the U.K.'s government website .

One of the fastest - and cheapest - ways to cross the English Channel is via Eurotunnel. Whether you cross through Eurotunnel for a short excursion or as one leg of a European touring vacation, you just drive aboard Le Shuttle , and, hey presto, 35 minutes later you're in another country.

First Let's Get a Few Things Straight

• You don't actually drive through the Channel Tunnel. You sit comfortably in your own car (or in a minibus if you're a cyclist) while you are carried through the tunnel on a special train, the Car Transport.
• Nobody really calls the the tunnel the "chunnel" anymore. It is called the Channel Tunnel or  Le Shuttle  for going by car or Eurostar for the high-speed, passenger-only service.

What is a Trip Through Eurotunnel Like?

First off, if you're not the greatest traveler when it comes to long tunnels, you have nothing to worry about. Crossing the channel on the car transporter has to be the easiest,quickest and most comfortable way to do it ever.

Boarding is a snap. We showed up early for our train and actually got on an earlier departure. Driving on Le Shuttle , the Eurotunnel Car Transporter, was a bit like driving into a garage.

The inside was painted a sunny yellow and the lights stayed brightly lit throughout the journey. So bright, in fact that, while we chatted happily, the dog snoring, oblivious, in the back seat, we raced across the French countryside for at least five minutes before we noticed that the carriage windows had turned from tunnel black to sky blue and we'd actually gone all the way through.

Le Shuttle Is for Cyclists Too

Each Eurotunnel Shuttle can carry six cyclists. The bicycles are carried on a specially adapted trailer and the cyclists travel in a minibus. To book a bicycle crossing, telephone the sales support department, weekdays, from 9 a.m. to 5:30p.m. on  44 (0)1303 282201 . Cycle crossings must be booked 48 hours in advance.  If you are traveling with a larger group, ring the sales support department on the same number to discuss arrangements. 

Cycles on a roof rack  - Some carriages on the Shuttle are double-deckers and some are single. If you are carrying bicycles on the roof of a car that make the car more than 1.85 meters tall (about 5.15 feet), tell the agent when you book your travel so that you can be assigned to an appropriate carriage.

Taking Your Dog

The tunnel is the most comfortable and humane way to travel across the English Channel with a pet. Your animal stays with you the whole way. If you are coming and going from the UK with a dog or cat though, the animal must be proven rabies free, microchipped and registered for the UK Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) , which takes some advanced planning.

Checking-in

Arrive at least half an hour before your departure (and not more than two hours) to allow time to check in, get into the boarding lanes and go through British and French security and frontier controls. In addition to passports and visas (if required) for all passengers, you'll also need registration documents and proof of insurance for your car. If you are traveling with a pet, you need to bring the required PETS paperwork and allow some extra time for your animal's passport and microchip to be checked.

Do You Have to Book in Advance?

You may be able to get aboard the next available shuttle, paying in pounds, euros or by credit card. But it's more expensive than booking in advance and you aren't guaranteed a place. During busy times of day or at the start of European school vacations, you could end up waiting quite some time to board a shuttle.

But you can still be almost spontaneous. Shuttles through Eurotunnel can usually be booked as little as a day in advance.

Can You Accidentally End Up on the Wrong Side of the Road?

Not a chance. Yes they drive on the right in France and on the left in the UK but those clever engineers who designed and built this wonder of the world thought of everything - including how stupid some of us drivers might be.

Roads are engineered to guide you to the correct lane both getting in and out of Eurotunnel. By the time you have gone through British and French passport control and customs and are ready to leave the private roads on the Eurotunnel sites, you've adjusted to the correct side of the road for the country you are in. 

Cheap Enough for Day Trips

Eurotunnel is priced to encourage day-trippers and short visits - and it only takes 35 minutes. If you're renting a self-catering cottage in Kent, you can hop across to stock up on cheaper wine and beer, cheaper cigarettes if you smoke, plus lovely French cheeses and groceries to stock your cupboards. Touring in the south of England? Pop across the channel for lunch, a visit to Northern France and a change of scene. The Pas de Calais region, near the tunnel exit in Coquelles, has lovely beach resorts, Flemish-influenced villages and great beer. There are also some wonderful restaurants. Try le Grand Bleu near the ferry port in Calais or the restaurants in the pretty town of Montreuil-sur-Mer . And if you are coming over from France, there's plenty to do within easy reach of the tunnel's Folkestone terminus.

Meals on the Way

Thirty-five minutes is a pretty short trip but if you arrive early, have to queue to board or have a long drive once you're through the tunnel, you could get hungry.

I find the shopping and catering at Eurotunnel facilities on a par with airport duty free - pretty conventional, over priced and not very nice. And once you've entered the Eurotunnel site, you can't really leave without repeating all the frontier security checks.

So allow some time to visit Calais first. See Rodin's original bronze of the Burghers of Calais and learn their heroic story, shop the Calais hypermarkets for wine and bargains, then pick up one last French picnic and head for the tunnel at Coquelles.

Essential Information:

• Where: The tunnel joins Folkestone in Kent with Coquelles, outside Calais. It has its own motorway exits, leading straight to check-in at both ends.
• from France take junction 42 off the A16 motorway
• from the UK take junction 11A off the M20.
• Book: online at the Eurotunnel website or by phoning:
• from the UK -  08443 35 35 35
• from outside Europe - +44 08443 35 35 35
• from France - +33 (0) 810 63 03 04
• Schedule:  Up to four departures per hour (from both directions) in bookable 2-hour windows, round the clock.
• Fares: One way fares start at £85. But you'd be smarter booking a round trip. Day trips and overnight stays start at £30 each way and short stays of up to five days start at £66 each way. The fare is per car (prices as of 2019). Motorcycle fares start at £15 and bicycles cost £20 each way.

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The Channel Tunnel

What is the chunnel.

The Channel Tunnel (often called the 'Chunnel' for short) is an undersea tunnel linking southern England and northern France. It is operated by the company Getlink, who also run a railway shuttle (Le Shuttle) between Folkestone and Calais, carrying passengers in cars, vans and other vehicles.

Eurostar is a totally separate company and is Getlink’s biggest customer, running high-speed passenger services through the Channel Tunnel between London and a number of other European cities on the continent, including Paris, Brussels, Lille, Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

The Chunnel actually comprises three tunnels: two rail tunnels, used for freight and passenger trains, and a service tunnel.

Everything you need to know about the Channel Tunnel

How long is the Channel Tunnel?

The Channel Tunnel is 31.5 miles long or 50.45 km. That's the equivalent of 169 Eiffel Towers stacked on top of each other.

23.5 miles (37.9 km) of the Channel Tunnel is under the English Channel, making it the world's longest undersea tunnel.

What year did the Channel Tunnel open?

The idea of a tunnel under the Channel was first proposed in 1802 but construction wasn't started until 1988. It was completed in 1993, and Eurostar services started in November 1994.

What does the Eurotunnel look like underwater?

This may be a disappointing answer, but you can't actually see the sea from the Eurostar. When you go through the tunnel and look out of the window, all you can see is your reflection in the glass because it's quite dark outside. You can catch glimpses of the walls of the tunnel, of course, which are made of reinforced concrete.

Where is the Channel Tunnel?

The Channel Tunnel runs between Calais in northern France and Folkestone in south Kent. Vehicle traffic for Le Shuttle gets on in Calais and gets off in Folkestone. Calais is about three hour's drive from Paris and Folkestone is about an hour and a half's drive from London.

Our passenger-only Eurostar trains leave from St Pancras International station in London and go directly to the centre of Paris, Brussels and other Eurostar destinations in Europe.

How deep is the Channel Tunnel?

At its deepest, the tunnel is 75 metres (246 feet) below the sea level. That's the same as 107 baguettes balancing on top of each other.

The English Channel is much deeper than the tunnel, with its deepest point measuring 175 meters (574 feet) below sea level.

How was the Channel Tunnel built?

The Channel Tunnel is made of three separate tunnels running parallel to each other. One train tunnel running south (UK to France), one train tunnel running north (France to UK) and one service tunnel. All three tunnels were drilled below the seabed and link Folkestone in Kent to Coquelles in Pas-de-Calais.

However, the idea of connecting the UK and France by tunnel is much older than people think – dating back to the early 1800s when its supporters included Napoleon Bonaparte.

Work on experimental tunnels started back in 1880 at Abbot’s Cliff near Folkestone, Kent. Many of the workers used hand tools, but a state-of-the-art boring machine was also used. Work was eventually abandoned until construction on the tunnel as we now know it began again in 1988.

Frequently asked questions

Thinking of hopping on Eurostar for your next European adventure? Got a couple of need-to-know questions before you book your trip? Here we’ve answered a selection of the most frequently asked questions from our customers.

Who can travel through the Channel Tunnel?

Foot passengers can travel with Eurostar, between our UK stations London St Pancras International and our stations on the continent . People who want to travel with their own vehicle or on a coach can use the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle between Folkestone and Calais. Before travelling with either Eurostar or Eurotunnel you will need to go through security, border and ticket checks before going through the Tunnel.

How much did it cost to build the Channel Tunnel?

It took just under six years and 13,000 workers to build the Channel Tunnel. The total cost came at an eye-watering £4.65 billion which would be the equivalent of £12 billion in today's money.

Why travel with Eurostar rather than drive?

• Avoid the stress of driving, with direct high-speed journeys to top destinations, from city centre to city centre.
• Great value fares with no additional costs like fuel, road tolls and parking.
• Simple connections with other rail services in Europe, allowing you to go beyond our direct destinations on a single booking.
• Travel in style on our comfortable trains, including our new, state-of-the art trains with wi-fi.

How fast does the Eurostar go?

The Eurostar travels through the Channel Tunnel at a speed of 100 miles per hour (160kph) although when the train is outside the tunnel it reaches speed of 186 miles per hour (300 kph).

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Travel for a Living

My experience taking the eurotunnel leshuttle.

Have you ever taken the Eurotunnel LeShuttle? Over the years, we’ve driven from the UK to mainland Europe many times. And would usually take the ferry from Dover to either Calais or Dunkirk. However, with Frank the pup joining us on our travels, we have switched to the Eurotunnel instead. We’ve used it for three return trips so far and have already booked our next trip in a few weeks’ time. So, I thought I would share my experience taking Eurotunnel LeShuttle with you all. In case you wondered what it is like on the Euroshuttle. Or are thinking of booking the Eurotunnel yourself for a trip to mainland Europe. 

I will do my best to answer the most common questions about taking the Euroshuttle first, before sharing with you my experience of taking the Eurotunnel LeShuttle:

What’s it like on the Eurotunnel LeShuttle?

How long does it take to go through the Eurotunnel?

How much does it cost to take LeShuttle?

Which tickets are available for the Euroshuttle?

How does boarding work for the Euroshuttle?

Can I get out of the car during the LeShuttle journey?

Can I take my pet with me on the Eurotunnel LeShuttle?

What is better, Eurotunnel or ferry?

What is the eurotunnel leshuttle.

Before I share my experience of taking the Eurotunnel LeShuttle, it is probably worth clarifying what the shuttle actually is?

The Euroshuttle, or correctly named the Eurotunnel LeShuttle, is a shuttle train that operates between Folkstone and Calais, going through the Eurotunnel. But this is no normal passenger train, instead you board with your car (or van or motorhome or even lorry). So, they are a bit bigger (and not quite as sleek looking) than normal passenger trains. 

Don’t confuse the Euroshuttle with the Eurostar. They both go through the Eurotunnel, but the Eurostar is the  high-speed passenger train connecting London with Paris , Brussels and Amsterdam. And believe me, when you see the two trains, there is no mistaking one for the other. 

The actual train journey takes around 30 minutes. But you will need to be at the LeShuttle terminal a little earlier for check-in and boarding etc (more on that in a little while). So, the overall time to allow would be more like one and a half hours. At least that was our experience in taking the Eurotunnel LeShuttle.

How much does it cost to take LeShuttle? And which types of tickets are available?

In our experience, the Eurotunnel LeShuttle is slightly more expensive than the ferry. However, you do save time, as the actual journey is only 30 minutes rather than 90 minutes on the ferry. Which is definitely something to take into consideration, when deciding whether to take LeShuttle or ferry.

The lowest price I could find online, was around 79 GBP one way. Prices obviously vary, depending on time of day, travel dates and type of ticket. So, have a look around and play with the days / times before booking. You may be able to save yourself some money, if you can be a little flexible. 

There are different types of tickets available for the Eurotunnel LeShuttle:

Day Trip & Overnight

This is the cheapest option (and you might be able to buy a ticket for as little as 31 GBP each way). But as the name already suggests, this is a ticket that requires you to return the same day or latest the next day. And the ticket is non-refundable.

Short-Stay Saver

Next up is the Short-Stay option. Which gives you up to five days between journeys. More expensive than the Day Trip ticket, these tickets start at 79 GBP one way. The short-stay tickets are also non-refundable.

Standard Ticket

If you are planning a week’s holiday in France (or even longer than a week), this is the cheapest ticket you could get. You can book the Standard Ticket one way or return (with as much time as you like between the two journeys). Prices start at 91 GBP one way and are non-refundable.

Standard Ticket Refundable

These are the tickets we have experience with when taking the Eurotunnel LeShuttle. Starting at 131 GBP each way, you will get a refund, should your travel plans change. Given the rather disastrous two years we all had when it comes to travelling, these were the tickets we felt most comfortable with. As we could never be sure whether travel really would go ahead as planned or not. First time we booked Eurotunnel LeShuttle was Christmas 2020. Well, have a guess how that worked out. We ended up cancelling the trip a week before. But thanks to booking refundable tickets, we received the full amount back without any hassle. Same went for Christmas 2021. But I have high hopes for Christmas 2022 (dammit, there I said it and jinxed it, haven’t I?)

And lastly, the Flexiticket

Starting at 249 GBP, these tickets don’t come cheap. But they give you full flexibility and are probably the most luxurious experience when taking the Eurotunnel LeShuttle. You simply turn up and board the next available train. You have a dedicated check-in lane (so no lengthy queueing), as well as an exclusive waiting lounge with free refreshments. I have not tried this option, so I can’t tell you whether the extra money is worth it and if it really betters your experience taking the Eurotunnel LeShuttle. I would just hope it does.

Currently it is not possible to just show up at the port and buy a ticket last minute on the spot. You will have to book your ticket at least 24 hours in advance. Which I guess is fine for most of us. I mean, how often do you wake up in the morning and think to yourself ‘Oh how about a trip to France today?’ … probably not that often. But then again, I do remember one trip years ago, when we were meant to fly to Germany in the evening. And our flight was cancelled (along with many others) after hours of delay. We were unable to rebook for several days… and ended up packing the car, booking a last-minute ferry ticket the next morning and driving to Germany instead. 

Little money saving tip when booking your Eurotunnel LeShuttle ticket:

If you live in the UK and have a Tesco Club Card, you can use your clubcard points to buy Eurotunnel LeShuttle tickets. Converting 50p of clubcard vouchers into £1.50 for the ticket. Which effectively means you only pay a third for your LeShuttle ticket if you have enough Tesco Club Card points. However, these tickets are always non-refundable. Keep that in mind, when you use those vouchers. There might well be offers like this available from other retailers. I am only mentioning Tesco Club Card, as that is the one, I personally have. And have seen the offer, although not used yet.

How do I board the Eurotunnel LeShuttle?

Now that we’ve covered the basics, how about I finally tell you a little about our experience taking the Eurotunnel LeShuttle.

Obviously, boarding a train by car is a little different from boarding a passenger train. You don’t just stand on the platform, wait for your train to arrive, and enter.

First up: Check-in

To check in and board the Euroshuttle, you will have to arrive at least an hour before departure. Usually, it would be 45 minutes, but since we had the dog with us, we needed a little extra time. 

Once we arrived at the port, the first thing we needed was our booking reference. From there, our next stop was the pet reception, to check Frank in.

For that, we needed to bring the dog, as well as his Animal Health Certificate (or EU passport, if still valid) and they asked us to scan his chip, checking the dog we were taking matched the paperwork we had. Ever since Brexit,  taking a dog abroad  has become a bit of a challenge, but I won’t go into too much detail here. After all, this post is about our experience taking the Eurotunnel LeShuttle, not the bureaucracy madness caused by Brexit.

Upon check-in, we received a boarding pass, that needed to be displayed in the windscreen (same as you would when boarding the ferry). First time we took the LeShuttle, we got a little confused with said boarding pass. It had a letter and number on it, which we assumed would be the parking lane for boarding (as it would be when taking the ferry). As we boarded an earlier train and were asked to immediately proceed to boarding, we didn’t get a chance to look around and get our bearings on how it all works. We went straight from pet reception into our car, drove off and followed the signs to ‘France’, until we arrived at the boarding area. But whilst our boarding pass said ‘N5’, we could not find a lane N. We did find a lane 5, but that was shut. After some confusion, we decided to chance it and just take the next available lane, regardless of its number.

Which turned out to be the right call. During subsequent trips, we worked out that the letter/number combination on the boarding pass does not indicate where to park for boarding, but when to board. Each train is given a letter and numbers 1, 3 and 5 for the three subsequent boarding times. At check in and all around the premises, large screens show you when each letter/number is due to board. And you will then just head towards the boarding area and join the queue once your letter/number is called.

At the terminal

First time we took the Euroshuttle, we didn’t actually get a chance to explore the terminal either side. As on both occasions we were allowed on an earlier train. And therefore, rushed straight through from pet reception to boarding. But on subsequent visits, we had a little spare time and were able to explore the terminals a little.

Both Folkstone and Calais have customer terminals with a few restaurants, shops, duty-free shopping and restrooms. First few times we’ve taken the Euroshuttle, dogs weren’t allowed inside the terminals, making it a little awkward when travelling with pets.

However, during our most recent trip (yes, we did actually make it home for Christmas this time), Folkestone had updated their terminal and now has a pet lounge. Calais still has a sign outside saying ‘no dogs’ but more and more people were taking the dog inside and no one moaned. But even though dogs are allowed inside the building, they are still not allowed into the actual shops. So, no duty-free shopping.

Border control

Once you are due to board, you will first have to pass border control. But no worries, just follow the signs to ‘France’ or ‘UK’ and you will automatically arrive at border control. Occasionally we had a bit of a queue at border control, but most times this was quick and easy. Along with the passport check, you may also be asked to park up for customs checks. So far, we have not been checked even once, but last time they did ask the two cars ahead of us to go to customs. 

Boarding the Eurotunnel LeShuttle train

Border control cleared; we arrived at the boarding area. As mentioned before, you don’t have a dedicated lane. You just park up in the next available lane and wait for boarding to commence. Surprisingly, you can’t actually see the trains yet but trust me when I say they are near. 

We had mixed experiences with boarding. Most times it started relatively quick. But on our last trip, we sat for quite a while on the tarmac here, until we were allowed to board. Annoyingly, there is no announcement if a train is delayed. All you get is the info to go to the boarding lanes. But once you are there, you just sit tight and wait. If your wait drags out a little, there are restrooms and vending machines nearby, just in case. 

Once boarding commences, you will drive down to the platform and will be directed to the train. The car area of the Eurotunnel LeShuttle train has two levels. We have not yet been upstairs; we’ve always been directed to board on the lower level. But you are stuck in a car in a train in a tunnel… so chances are, the view isn’t any better up there, just saying. 

With all cars parked (and squeezed together really tight to allow as many cars on the train as possible), the internal section doors of the train will shut, and the journey will start.

Our experience taking the Eurotunnel LeShuttle: on board the shuttle

The journey through the Eurotunnel takes approx. 30 minutes. When parking the car, you are advised to open your windows a little, as it can get a bit warm and stuffy in the car during that time. Especially in summer. Since you are not allowed to switch on your engine whilst the train is moving, your car’s aircon isn’t much help. 

Since this isn’t your normal passenger train, there aren’t many mod cons on board. Yes, there are restrooms every couple of sections, but there is no onboard restaurant or entertainment in any way. First two trips we took, we weren’t even allowed to leave the car. But last time it was all back to normal, and the restrooms were open during the journey.

The Eurotunnel LeShuttle offers onboard Wi-Fi for free. But whilst we were able to connect, it was so slow that we eventually gave up. Instead, we made good use of the half hour journey and had our breakfast instead.

Once the train arrives on the other side, it all goes relatively quick. The doors open and everyone drives off the train, onto the platform and out of the station. Do you actually call it a station? Or would it be a harbour? Not a Scooby Doo (clue).

There were no further controls this end, as we had already gone through passport control and customs before boarding the train. 

Can I take my pet on the Eurotunnel LeShuttle?

Since I’ve been mentioning our dog about 50 times already, you have probably worked out the answer to that question. Yes, you can take your dog with you when travelling on the Euroshuttle. Which is the whole point, why we started using the Shuttle to start with. And not only dogs, you can also take cats, ferrets and rabbits. 

If taking your pet on the Eurotunnel LeShuttle, you must add it to your booking beforehand. And it does come with a little price tag. 22 GBP each way. Which I do find a little annoying, given that I can add an additional person free of charge. 

I have already told you about the pet reception, where your pet will be scanned, and its paperwork checked.

And whilst awaiting boarding to commence, you can visit the dog exercise area. Which is nice at Folkstone, with a relatively large run. But the exercise area in Calais is a bit dingy and small, just a fenced in piece of fake lawn, with nothing else to offer.

Given our experience taking the Eurotunnel LeShuttle, I do prefer the Eurotunnel over the ferry. At least for us it works better. But both options have their pros and cons.

Yes, the Eurotunnel LeShuttle is quicker (it’ll save you a good hour over taking the ferry). But it is also more expensive than taking the ferry.

And you get less of a view. In fact, you get absolutely no view. Whereas travelling by ferry enables you to see the white cliffs of Dover as you enter or exit the harbour.

Travelling with our dog, we prefer the train, as it means he can stay with us. If going by ferry, dog would need to stay in the car whilst we would have to go upstairs for the crossing. And since plenty of people don’t seem to know how to lock their car without switching on the alarm, this is an experience I would rather avoid for our beloved pup. We took the ferry to the Isle of Wight last year and the moment the ferry started its engines, the car alarms started, and our pup got all restless (and he wasn’t even down in the car, he was up on the deck with us).

Both ferry and train have their advantages and disadvantages. And I leave it up to you to decide which is better. But if you’ve never done it, it sure is an experience taking the Eurotunnel LeShuttle.

Have you taken the shuttle before? Did you like it?

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• The Channel Tunnel or 'Chunnel'

Book travel across Europe

• Rail travel in Europe

Trains in Europe

The longest undersea rail tunnel in the world, the Channel Tunnel – also known as the ‘Chunnel’ – provides the only permanent link between the island of Great Britain and continental Europe.

In our guide to the Channel Tunnel, we explain its history, how it was built, which trains it serves and more. So, what are you waiting for? Keep reading for more details.

What is the Chunnel?

The Channel Tunnel, also referred to as the ‘Chunnel’, is the longest underwater rail tunnel in the world and connects southern England (Folkestone Terminal) to northern France (Calais Terminal) beneath the English Channel at the Strait of Dover.

Owned and operated by Getlink, the Chunnel is actually made of three tunnels – two rail tunnels, which are used for freight and passenger trains, and a service tunnel – and carries  high-speed Eurostar trains , international freight trains and the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle service for road vehicles.

Where is the Channel Tunnel?

The Channel Tunnel runs between Calais in northern France and Folkestone in south Kent. Road vehicles for Eurotunnel Le Shuttle get on in Calais and get off in Folkestone, while Eurostar trains depart from London St Pancras International station in London and go directly to the centre of Paris , Brussels , Amsterdam , and other European destinations.

How long is the Channel Tunnel?

The Chunnel is 31.5 miles (50.45 km) long, of which 23.5 miles (37.9 km) are under the English Channel, making it the longest undersea tunnel in the world.

When did the Channel Tunnel open?

The idea of building a tunnel under the English Channel was first proposed in 1802 but construction only began in 1988. The Channel Tunnel was completed in 1993 and was officially opened on 6th May 1994 by Queen Elizabeth II and French President François Mitterrand. The first Eurostar services started in November 1994.

How was the Channel Tunnel built?

Working from both the English side and the French side of the Channel, eleven boring machines cut through chalk marl to construct three separate tunnels running parallel to each other: one train tunnel running south from the UK to France, one running north from France to the UK and one a service tunnel.

All three tunnels were drilled below the seabed and link Folkestone in Kent to Coquelles in Pas-de-Calais.

How deep is the Channel Tunnel?

At its deepest, the Chunnel is 246 feet (75 metres) below the sea level.

Which trains go through the Chunnel?

The Chunnel connects end-to-end with the high-speed railway lines of the LGV Nord in France and High Speed 1 in England. GetLink operate the tunnel and provide vehicle transport services with the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle between Folkestone and Calais, while Eurostar run high-speed passenger trains between London and many destinations in Europe, including Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam. Whether you’re travelling with Eurotunnel Le Shuttle or Eurostar, you’ll need to go through security checks, border controls and ticket checks before going through the Chunnel.

Read on for more information on Eurostar, including popular routes and how to get the cheapest fares.

Popular Eurostar routes

Have a look at some of the most popular Eurostar routes via the Channel Tunnel below – simply tap the route you’re interested in to check train times, compare ticket prices, and learn more about the train journey.

So, what are you waiting for? Start a search for Eurostar train tickets in our Journey Planner at the top of the page – you won’t regret it!

Find & book tickets

How to buy cheap Eurostar tickets

Want to save money on your train journey through the Channel Tunnel? Read our top tips to snap up the cheapest Eurostar fares.

Book in advance

Eurostar train tickets usually go on sale 6 months before the date of travel. Make sure you book in advance if you want to snap up the cheapest fares as these tend to sell out, leaving only the more expensive tickets.

Make it midweek

When travelling on the Eurostar, you can benefit from reduced fares by travelling in the middle of the week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and at times of the day that are less busy. When searching for tickets, we'll show you all available tickets, highlighting the cheapest ones for you.

Keep an eye on offers

Eurostar have been known to hold flash sales for tickets, with the cheapest one-way tickets from £29. Keep an eye on our Deals & Discounts page for the latest Eurostar offers to save on your train journey.

Channel Tunnel facts

There are so many interesting facts about the Channel Tunnel. Have a look at our top picks below and learn more about one of the biggest engineering projects ever undertaken in the United Kingdom. 

First designs and plans

• Early Channel Tunnel proposals stirred up concerns in Britain of an invasion from France, so very early concepts included designs that could be blown up or flooded, should the French ever try to invade.
• In designing the original trains, there were some difficult Anglo-French negotiations. French regulation said you couldn’t have liquids over 85°C, so there were debates about whether you could make a decent cup of English tea within the permitted temperatures.
• The trains were designed to be split in two in an emergency if necessary to get out of the Channel Tunnel. All passengers could stand in one half, the other half could be manually uncoupled and the train could leave.
• Early British Rail suggestions for train design were all rejected. In the end, train design, track design, signalling system – it was all French.
• In the 1990s, a sleeper train service was planned through the Channel Tunnel alongside Eurostar trains: the Nightstar! The trains were even built. But alas, they were never launched, and many carriages were sold to Canada.

Early years of the Chunnel

• The early years of the Channel Tunnel were tough, competing with cheap airlines, many people thought it might fold entirely. But then slowly, things changed!
• There were concerns that passing through the Channel Tunnel at 160 km/h would have a hypnotic effect on the driver so the cab window was made very small compared with other trains.
• In 1889 the Channel Tunnel was going to be a BRIDGE. The "Schneider-Hersent" to be exact, 24 miles and 120 piers of engineering excellence. The chief consulting engineer was Sir John Fowler, who was responsible for Scotland's Forth Bridge and London's Metropolitan Railway.
• On 30th October 1990, the Channel Tunnel’s advancing French tunnel boring machine met the British probe for the first time undersea. Incredibly, their difference in alignment was just 358mm horizontally and 58mm vertically!
• The Queen was the very first official passenger to travel through the tunnel… but due to signalling issues on the UK side, her train arrived seven minutes late.

Facts about the Eurostar

• The original Eurostar train designs were essentially based on a French design – the TGV – but had elements designed across Britain, France and Belgium – all the places the trains served. The front of the power car was designed in Leicester.
• Eurostar trains are more complex than they look: they were built to work with 8 different signalling systems across Europe and a different loading gauge (i.e. space around the train to platforms and bridge edges) in France and the UK.
• The original Eurostar London terminus was at Waterloo: the long, curved extension at the side of the main station was used before the station at St Pancras International was completed.
• Eurostar actually had to stop for manual level crossing!
• There are regular changes to timetables in both Britain and France. Because at first the Eurostar trains shared tracks with UK domestic trains to get to Waterloo, there were periods when the timetable worked fine for France but was terrible to try and fit in over in Britain. Now all UK Eurostar tracks are segregated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Thinking of taking the Eurostar for your next train trip in Europe and having a couple of questions before you travel? Have a look at our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the Chunnel from our customers.

Is the Channel Tunnel underwater?

Yes. The Channel Tunnel is the longest undersea tunnel in the world: its section under the sea is 23.5 miles (37.9 km) long.

How long did it take to build the Channel Tunnel?

It took five years – from 1988 to 1993 – to build the Channel Tunnel.

Do Eurostar trains go through the Channel Tunnel?

Yes. Eurostar runs high-speed passenger services through the Channel Tunnel between London and a number of other European cities, including Paris, Brussels, Lille, Lyon, Avignon and Marseille.

How long are you underwater on the Eurostar?

It takes around 35 minutes for the Eurostar to cross the 23-mile underwater stretch of the Channel Tunnel.

What's the difference between Eurostar and Eurotunnel?

Eurostar and Eurotunnel are completely different companies but they share use of the Channel Tunnel. Eurotunnel is operated by Getlink, the company that owns and operates the Channel Tunnel, connecting the UK with France, while Eurostar is a customer of Getlink and runs its passenger trains through the Chunnel.

Is there WiFi in the Channel Tunnel?

Yes. 4G mobile services are available in the Channel Tunnel – WiFi will work on both sides of the English Channel and in the tunnel itself.

How fast does a Eurostar train go?

The Eurostar travels through the Chunnel at speeds of up to 100 mph (160 km/h) but it can reach up to 186 mph (300 km/h) outside the tunnel.

Want to know more about train travel in Europe?

We’ve told you everything you need to know about the Channel Tunnel but if you want to learn more about Eurostar or train travel in Europe, check out our travel guides.

All about the Eurostar

Eurostar train

Eurostar check-in info

Eurostar train classes

Eurostar Standard

Eurostar Standard Premier

Eurostar Business Premier

Eurostar train times

Travel around Europe

Trains in France

High-speed trains in Europe

Night trains in Europe

Cheap European train tickets

Europe train map

First vs Second Class on European trains

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We help customers across Europe make more than 172,000 smarter journeys every day.

How to use the Channel Tunnel when driving to France

The eurotunnel le shuttle train is the quickest way to cross the english channel. it takes 35 minutes to travel from folkestone to calais..

Going on a summer holiday to France – or further into Europe ? The Eurotunnel Le Shuttle train is the quickest way to cross the English Channel.

You’ll need to allow extra time for post-Brexit passport checks, but once on board, the train takes just 35 minutes to get from Folkestone to Calais.

The Eurotunnel is also convenient. Buy an appropriate ticket and you can arrive at any time, then board the next available train. There is quick access to the motorway network when you drive off the train in France, too.

Here, we reveal some of the things you need to know when using the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle. For the latest information, check out the official Eurotunnel Le Shuttle Twitter feed .

How to buy Eurotunnel tickets

Tickets cost from £87 per car for a single crossing, although this is based on staying for five days or fewer. A standard ticket is £110 each way, or £150 if you choose the refundable option.

If you can afford it, we recommend the Flexiplus ticket (from £209). This gives you the flexibility to travel at short notice and with minimal delays.

A Flexiplus ticket is a little like an upgraded flight ticket. Travellers are treated to a dedicated check-in, access to an exclusive lounge and complimentary refreshments, magazines and newspapers.

This guide will enable you to choose the best ticket:

• Short Stay Saver : from £87 per car, each way. Five days or fewer. Must be purchased as part of a return journey.
• Standard : from £110 per car, each way. Single or return.
• Standard Refundable: from £150 per car, each way. Single or return. Can be refunded if your plans change.
• Short Stay Flexiplus : from £209 per car, each way. Five days or fewer. Return ticket.
• Flexiplus : from £269 per car, each way. Any duration. Single or return.

The quickest way to book a ticket is to use the Eurotunnel webs ite . You can also telephone 0344 335 3535 to make a reservation. The lines are open Monday to Friday from 8am to 7pm, and weekends from 9am to 5.30pm.

Arriving at the Eurotunnel

Whether you’re arriving at the Eurotunnel terminal in Folkestone or Calais, you should check-in at least 45 minutes and no more than two hours before your booked departure time. You’ll need your booking reference number and credit or debit card used to make the booking.

• At Folkestone , take junction 11a off the M20 and proceed to the check-in booths.
• At Calais , exit the A16 at junction 42 and follow the ‘Tunnel sous la Manche’ signs to the check-in booths.

If you have made a booking in advance, you can proceed to the self-check-in lanes. Simply insert your payment card into the machine and follow the instructions. Either way, you’ll be given a departure hanger for your car’s windscreen.

Boarding the Le Shuttle train

Once you have checked in, you are free to use the passenger terminal. Here, you will find shops, restaurants, toilets and baby changing facilities.

Next, drive to the British and French frontier controls where your passport, vehicle and official documentation will be checked.

Boarding commences 25 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Check the screens and listen for announcements, before following the arrows to your allocated boarding lane.

Vehicle types on the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle

The following vehicle types are permitted on the Eurotunnel:

• Motorcycles
• High vehicles, vans and minibuses
• Caravans, campervans and trailers
• Electric cars

Most cars will be directed to the double-deck trains, which are suitable for vehicles less than 1.85 metres in height. Taller, wider and longer vehicles, plus those towing a caravan or trailer, will be directed to the single-deck trains.

Once you have boarded Le Shuttle, you’re free to leave the vehicle. There are toilets on board, but smoking is not permitted .

Are there electric car charging points at the Eurotunnel?

You will find electric car chargers in both Folkestone and Calais. However, Eurotunnel notes that: ‘Customers with vehicles that require a Type 2 plug must be in possession of and use their own charging cable. None are provided or available on the terminal’.

There are also dedicated Tesla Superchargers – with those at Folkestone open to other (non-Tesla) cars with CCS compatibility as part of a pilot scheme.

Eurotunnel: other things to remember

There are up to four departures an hour, and the price of a ticket covers a car and up to nine passengers. There are also no baggage restrictions.

For more information, including details about travelling with a pet , fuel types and duty-free shopping, visit the Eurotunnel website. Don’t forget your passport and a new ‘UK’ sticker.

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