England to France Road Trip: A Guide to Driving Across the Channel

Your Complete Guide to Driving from England to France

Wondering what’s involved with making the scenic drive across the English Channel to France? As someone who’s taken this road trip numerous times, let me walk you through everything you need to know to plan and enjoy your England to France motor trip.

Route Options

The main routes you can take are the Channel Tunnel route or ferry route. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each:

1. Channel Tunnel (Eurotunnel) Route:
   • Quickest option, taking only 35 minutes on the high-speed train underneath the Channel.
   • Avoid seasickness unlike the ferry.
   • No need to load/unload your vehicle on a ferry.
   • Can be pricier than ferry options, starting at around £100 each way for a standard car.
2. Ferry Route:
   • Slower crossing of 1-2 hours depending on port, but you get to enjoy sea views.
   • Can be a more memorable experience than the tunnel.
   • Usually cheaper rates starting around £50 each way for a standard car.
   • Risk of delays/cancellations in bad weather unlike the tunnel.

From my experience, the tunnel is best for a quick getaway while ferries add to the adventure if you don’t mind the extra time. Consider factors like budget, time, and weather when deciding.

Booking & Documents

No matter which route you choose, be sure to book tickets well in advance during peak seasons for the best rates. You’ll need:

• Passports for all passengers (drivers must have held a valid license for at least a year).
• Vehicle documents like registration and insurance.
• Euro sign on your car if driving on French roads long-term.

Remember, tickets are non-refundable if plans change, so consider travel insurance. It’s saved me a packet of cash before when weather halted my ferry.

Ports of Entry/Exit

The most commonly used ports are:

1. Channel Tunnel – Folkestone (UK), Coquelles (France)
2. Dover-Calais Ferry – Popular shortest route taking 1-2 hours.
3. Portsmouth-Cherbourg/Caen/Le Havre – Longer rides of 2-3 hours but less crowded.
4. Newhaven-Dieppe – Attractive scenic route along France’s northern coast.

From experience, I recommend Dover-Calais for a quick trip or Newhaven-Dieppe for a more relaxing drive with gorgeous coastal views en route.

Drive Times & Routes

Now that the logistics are clear, let’s talk driving! Most folks take the toll-free A2/A26 motorway for the 2.5 hour drive from London to Calais or Folkestone.

But if you have time to spare, I’d suggest the non-toll D915 coast road from Dover to Calais instead. The Channel vistas totally make up for the extra half hour!

Once in France, follow signs for Paris on the busy A16 toll road. It’s a smooth 4-5 hour ride to the City of Lights, though you may face heavy traffic on weekends or holidays, so allow extra time.

Costs to Budget For

Aside from ferry/tunnel tickets, here are some other driving expenses:

• Tolls – French motorways have tolls, usually €2-4 per 50km on average.
• Fuel – Expect to pay around £1.40/L petrol in the UK, €1.60/L diesel in France.
• Food/refreshments on the road.
• Emergency car issues like punctures or breakdown cover.

From past experience, I’d set aside £300-500 total budget per car depending on distances covered. Travel cards save heavily on French tolls!

Packing Tips

Don’t forget these essential items:

1. Valid documents, tickets, insurance info, spare cash.
2. Phone chargers, maps, first aid kit.
3. Snacks, water, kid stuff like toys or books.
4. Comfortable clothes, layers, sunglasses.
5. Important meds, sanitizer, masks during the pandemic.

Throw in plenty ofEnglish pounds, Euros and a translation book just in case. Bringing family? Consider a portable toilet, changing mat too for little ones.

Driving Rules

While driving manners are quite similar, be aware of these key Franco-British road differences:

• Drive on right side of the road in England, left side in France.
• Speed limits in km/h in France vs mph in England.
• Front and rear seat belts mandatory even for back seats in France.
• No right turns on red lights in France like the UK/US.

Following local rules will help you avoid fines. Don’t risk getting “le ticket” in France!

Travel Tips

A few more tips from my countless Channel crossings:

• Pack light for faster border checks.
• Fill gas tanks before the final drive to ports.
• Request top deck ferry cabins for balconies and views.
• Pre-order snacks/meals online to grab and go.
• Utilize ferry/tunnel lounges with cafe’s, WiFi if delayed.

Take lots of fun snapshots too! The sun setting over waves or tunnel lights zooming by create lifelong memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to other common questions travellers have:

Do I need a visa to drive in France?

No visa required for short trips as a UK citizen. Just carry proper ID/documents.

Can I bring food/alcohol between countries?

Yes, but declare amounts over personal allowance limits. No fresh produce usually.

Is driving in France very different than England?

Rules vary slightly as mentioned, but French drivers tend to be faster paced. Just merge carefully!

What if my ferry/tunnel booking is cancelled?

Contact provider for refund/exchange options depending on circumstances like weather delays.

Any French road trip tips once across?

Visit charming villages, taste wines in vineyards, sightsee on scenic coastal/country roads rather than just motorways.

What documents do kids need?

Passports if overseas citizens, ID/proof of guardianship if EU residents should suffice for minors.

Can we take pets across the Channel?

Yes, but check provider rules and ensure pets are microchipped, vaccinated with paperwork for rules of entry to other countries.

I hope this guide has covered all your transportation questions for driving from England to France. Bon voyage and safe travels!

Considerations for Driving from England to France

Car Rental Company	Available Seats	Trunk/Boot Space	Fuel Efficiency
Budget	5	Medium	Average
Hertz	4	Large	Good
Sixt	5	Small	Great
Enterprise	7	X-Large	Average
Thrifty	5	Medium	Poor

FAQ

1. How long does it take to drive from England to France?

   Basically it depends on where in England you’re starting from and where in France you’re ending. But in general it takes between 1.5 to 3 hours to make the drive. From London to Paris is around 2.5 hours.

2. Do I need travel documents like a passport?

   Oh yeah, you’ll definitely need a valid passport or equivalent ID to cross the border into France. Even though both countries are in the EU, they’ve got customs checks and all that jazz at the tunnel and ferry ports. Don’t get caught without the right paperwork!

3. Is it cheaper to take the tunnel or ferry?

   The ferry often works out less expensive than the Chunnel, but it takes longer. At the same time, the tunnel saves hours of time versus a ferry crossing. So it depends if your priority is cost or time. You’ll have to check prices and consider your own situation.

4. What are some important things to prepare for the drive?

   Besides your passport and boarding passes, be sure to pack snacks, water, and any medications you may need. Also check your car documents like insurance and registration are in order. Maybe load up some tunes or podcasts for the drive too. And don’t forget to set your trip odometer – it’s always stunning how far you’ve gone once you reach your destination!

5. Is driving in France very different than England?

   Kinda sorta. The traffic does move on the opposite side of the road in France compared to England. So that part may take some getting used to. But in general, driving rules and signage are pretty similar between the two countries. You’ll probably pick it up quickly. Just keep an eye out for those mopeds zipping around!

   

6. What are some cool spots to visit along the way?

   If you’ve got time to spare, the Dover Castle and White Cliffs are amazing sights not far from the ports. Once in France, head to Rouen for half-timbered buildings and gothic architecture. You could maybe stop in stunning medieval town of Le Mont-Saint-Michel too if your trip allows for detours. Lots of options – but is it worth slowing your journey? You decide!

7. Any tips for making it an enjoyable trip?

   Play some fun road trip games like license plate bingo to help pass the time. Sing loudly to songs you like – who cares what others think! Bring snacks to munch on and lots of water. Check weather and plan rest stops. Consider splitting driving duties if there’s two vehicles. Most importantly, take pictures to share memories of your England to France drive!