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Eurotunnel Folkestone terminal: address, check-in and facilities
The Folkestone terminal in Kent is the UK starting point for the Channel Tunnel, just off the M20. Here is the address and how to get there, what happens at check-in, the facilities and parking, and how to avoid the queues.
Everything about the UK side of the Channel Tunnel crossing happens at the Eurotunnel terminal in Folkestone: check-in, both sets of border control, and boarding the LeShuttle train. It is well signposted from Junction 11A of the M20, and most drivers go from motorway to train in well under an hour.
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Where is the Folkestone terminal?
The terminal is in the southeast corner of England, right by the M20. Dover is about 7 miles away, Ashford around 10 miles, and London roughly 70 miles (about 1 hour 30 minutes).
- Terminal: Eurotunnel Terminal Building, Folkestone
- Address: Ashford Road, Folkestone, Kent
- Postcode for sat nav: CT18 8XX
- Motorway access: Junction 11A of the M20
Getting there
- From London: take the M20 south and follow the signs to Junction 11A, about 1 hour 30 minutes.
- From the north and midlands: take the M25, then the M20 towards Dover, and exit at Junction 11A.
- By train: the nearest stations are Folkestone West and Folkestone Central, but there is no direct pedestrian access to the terminal. Foot passengers use Eurostar instead.
Check-in at the Folkestone terminal
Check-in is quick and mostly automatic. Here is how it goes from arrival to boarding.
- Arrive around 45 to 60 minutes before your booked departure, and more at peak times.
- Drive to the automatic check-in booths, where your booking is read from your number plate (or entered manually).
- Pass through French and UK border control, both completed here before you board.
- Follow the signs to the passenger terminal or straight to your allocated lanes.
- Board the LeShuttle train when your departure letter is called, and stay with your vehicle for the 35-minute crossing.
Facilities at the terminal
The Folkestone terminal has everything you need for a short stop before boarding.
- A passenger terminal building with shops and places to eat and drink.
- Toilets and baby-changing facilities.
- Fuel available nearby.
- Cash machines and free short-stay parking.
- Pet facilities, including a Pet Reception and exercise areas. See travelling with pets.
Facilities and opening hours can vary, so check the official LeShuttle information before you travel.
Parking at the terminal
Most travellers drive straight through without parking. There is short-stay parking near the passenger building if you want to stop. Long-stay parking is limited and should be arranged in advance with LeShuttle if you need to leave a vehicle.
Queues and delays at Folkestone
Check-in and the border are usually fast-moving, but queues can build at peak times such as school holidays, bank holidays and busy summer weekends. A few things keep it smooth.
- Travel off-peak where you can: early mornings, late evenings and midweek are quietest.
- Allow extra time during busy periods.
- Check the live service status for current waiting times.
- Have passports and booking details ready to speed through border control.
The French terminal at Coquelles
On the other side, the tunnel arrives at Coquelles near Calais (Rue des Garennes, 62231), with direct access to the A16 motorway towards Paris, Belgium and the Netherlands. Your return check-in follows exactly the same process as at Folkestone. For routes and terminals in detail, see our Channel Tunnel terminals and routes guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Eurotunnel Folkestone terminal postcode?
CT18 8XX, on Ashford Road, reached from Junction 11A of the M20. For pinpoint sat-nav accuracy, search for “Eurotunnel Terminal Building” rather than the postcode alone.
How do I get to the Folkestone terminal?
By car via the M20, exiting at Junction 11A, which is signposted for Eurotunnel. From London it is about 70 miles, around 1 hour 30 minutes. There is no foot access; pedestrians use Eurostar.
How early should I arrive at the terminal?
Around 45 to 60 minutes before your booked departure, and more during peak periods. Arriving early can let you take an earlier crossing if there is space.
Are there queues at the Folkestone terminal?
It is usually fast-moving, but peak times like holidays and busy weekends can create queues. Check the official LeShuttle live service status for current waiting times.
What facilities are at the terminal?
A passenger building with shops, food and drink, toilets, fuel nearby, cash machines, and pet facilities.
Is there parking at the Folkestone terminal?
Yes, short-stay parking near the passenger building. Long-stay parking is limited and should be arranged in advance with LeShuttle if you need it.
The Eurotunnel Folkestone terminal (CT18 8XX, M20 Junction 11A) is a quick, well-signposted start to your crossing: arrive 45 to 60 minutes ahead, check in automatically by number plate, clear both borders in one place, and board when your letter is called. Off-peak crossings are quietest, and from Coquelles at the other end the A16 takes you straight into Europe. Use the price checker above to book your crossing.