Frequently Asked Questions about the Channel Tunnel
Do you have questions about the Channel Tunnel? Here, you'll find the answers to frequently asked questions about traveling through the Channel Tunnel to England.
Discover answers to common questions about traveling by car through the Chunnel. For more information, check out our page on traveling by car through the Chunnel. If your question isn't answered here, don't hesitate to send us a message. We're here to help!
The Journey Through the Tunnel
The Eurotunnel train, which operates through the Channel Tunnel, reaches speeds of up to 160 kilometers per hour (99 miles per hour). You'll be across in 35 minutes.
The train journey through the Eurotunnel takes just 35 minutes. However, there might be some wait time before the train departs, depending on when it's full and ready to leave. Check the expected travel times for trips via the Channel Tunnel or alternative routes.
Yes, there are no restrictions or exceptions when traveling with an electric car. Additionally, there are ample charging facilities available at the terminals in both Folkestone and Calais.
Currently, it's not permitted to travel with an LPG-powered vehicle through the Channel Tunnel. More information about LPG can be found on this page.
Yes, during the 35-minute train ride through the Channel Tunnel, you have the opportunity to use the toilet facilities.
Costs
The costs for traveling through the Channel Tunnel by car vary depending on the type of vehicle, the time of booking, and the ticket type. For a one-way trip, prices start from around €72. There are various ticket types available for the Channel Tunnel. For detailed information on ticket options and prices, check out the page on Channel Tunnel tickets and prices.
Both the Eurotunnel and the ferry can be cheaper, depending on how busy it is and availability. We recommend comparing prices of Eurotunnel train tickets and ferry tickets to choose the most economical option. You can check out the Ferry or Channel Tunnel page with alternative routes for the Channel Tunnel and starting prices for ferry trips.
Yes, larger vehicles take up more space and may be more expensive.
No, the ticket price includes your vehicle and up to nine persons. Vehicles capable of carrying more than nine persons are charged a bit differently, but the number of people in the vehicle does not change the price.
Route & Traffic
To get to the LeShuttle Folkestone Terminal (view the address details here), you can take various routes:
From London: Travel on the M20 towards Folkestone, adhering to the signs heading south until you reach Junction 11A. Here, you'll find directions to the Eurotunnel terminal.
From the North or Midlands of England: Proceed to the M25 directed towards the M20 Dover/Folkestone. Subsequently, take exit 11A to reach the Eurotunnel.
Eurotunnel LeShuttle Postcode and Maps: Should you be utilising a satnav, input the Eurotunnel postcode: CT18 8XX.
In France, traffic from the right generally has priority, unless indicated otherwise by traffic signs. This means that at intersections without priority signs or signals, vehicles coming from the right have the right of way. This principle is known as “priorité à droite”. However, it's important to note that this rule does not apply to roundabouts; there, vehicles already on the roundabout have priority.
Pets
You are allowed to take your pet to Europe via the Channel Tunnel, but you must comply with certain rules beforehand. These include the correct vaccinations, deworming for dogs, a microchip, and a pet passport. It's crucial to meet these requirements; otherwise, your pet cannot accompany you. For more information about travelling with your dog through the Channel Tunnel and the applicable rules and obligations, you can read everything here.
Yes, both the French and English terminals have special pet relief areas marked in yellow. There's also a relief area behind the petrol station, just after leaving the train in Great Britain.
Yes, it's important to have your booking number ready so we can locate your booking and check your pet in more quickly.
The tapeworm treatment must be carried out by a vet at least 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (5 days) before arrival in France. Dogs not dewormed according to these rules will not be allowed into Europe. Your dog can only enter after being dewormed at least 24 and no more than 120 hours before arrival.
Yes, Eurotunnel Le Shuttle can transport domestic horses and donkeys on the single deck passenger shuttles. This requires a Type 2 horse trailer that meets current standards. This trailer must have an inspection certificate based on article 18(2) of the UK's ‘Welfare of Animals During Transport Regulations' or a comparable European regulation for animal welfare. You can make a reservation through one of Eurotunnel Le Shuttle's partners specialising in horse transport.
Registered guide and assistance dogs can travel free of charge with their owner. At check-in, you must present an official registration document, along with the usual travel documents for the dog.
You can transport up to 5 pets per vehicle between Great Britain and Europe. Reservations can be made via the website, the call centre, or at the Pet Reception during check-in.
Yes, you can. Subject to availability, you can make changes to your booking until midnight the day before your outbound journey. Most bookings can be modified online using the password from your confirmation email. Please note that if you have paid for your booking in full or part with Tesco vouchers, you will need to contact us by phone to amend your booking.
During the 35-minute crossing, your pet stays with you in the car.
You must check in your pet at least 1 and no more than 4 hours before departure.
Follow the ‘paw prints' to the Pet Reception at the Folkestone terminal, just before the check-in lanes.
If you're travelling in the evening or at night, try the regular Pet Reception first. If it's closed, head to the special Night Time Pet Check-in.
For a single journey with Eurotunnel Le Shuttle, you'll pay £22 per pet. This fee applies to each cat, dog, or ferret in your vehicle.
Follow the ‘paw prints' to the Pet Reception at the entrance to the passenger terminal.
About the Chunnel Itself
The Channel Tunnel reaches its deepest point at approximately 75 meters below the sea level of the Channel (known as the English Channel in English, La Manche in French). This makes it an impressive feat of engineering that runs both beneath the seabed and the sea level, facilitating travel by train or car between the United Kingdom and France.
The Chunnel comprises three tunnels, two of which are used for the LeShuttle and Eurostar trains. The middle tunnel is used for maintenance and emergencies.
The Eurotunnel starts on one end in Folkestone, England, and on the other end in Coquelles (near Calais), France. The starting point depends on which side you begin your journey from.
Are you curious about what a journey through the Channel Tunnel is like? Check out here: videos and clips about the Channel Tunnel for a good impression.
Questions about the Channel Tunnel:
Chunnel.co.uk is your comprehensive guide for traveling to England by train through the Channel Tunnel. Whether you're traveling by car, on foot, or simply seeking current information, we provide all the essential details for a smooth crossing via the Channel Tunnel. Learn more about Eurostar train services, the Shuttle for vehicles, current prices, and alternatives such as ferries.
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