LeShuttle Timetable
Live LeShuttle timetable and up-to-date departure times for your Channel Tunnel journey. Discover the Eurotunnel crossing times, check prices and read practical tips.
🔴 Eurotunnel: Folkestone to Calais Live Timetable
About the LeShuttle timetable
LeShuttle operates up to four departures per hour through the Channel Tunnel between Folkestone (UK) and Calais (France). 🔴 The Live Timetable above shows current Eurotunnel crossing times and departure updates in real time.
While the train ride through the Channel Tunnel takes 35 minutes, travellers should plan to arrive at least 60 to 90 minutes before departure to allow for check-in, security screening, and passport control. All checks take place before boarding, and vehicles queue in lanes until it’s time to drive onto the train.
From arrival at the terminal to exiting on the other side, expect a total journey time of around 2 to 3 hours.
Typical Eurotunnel crossing times
| Stage of journey | Average duration |
|---|---|
| Check-in and border control | 30–60 minutes |
| Boarding and waiting | 15–30 minutes |
| Train journey through the tunnel | 35 minutes |
| Disembarkation and exit | 10–15 minutes |
| Total travel time (realistic) | 2–3 hours |
LeShuttle is the fastest link between the UK and France for road vehicles. We compared the speed with the ferries, and LeShuttle was a clear winner.
Departures from Folkestone and Calais
From Folkestone (UK to France)
Departures from Folkestone run day and night, with the highest frequency in the morning and early evening. Most vehicles clear border and security checks before boarding, so keep your booking reference and passports ready.
LeShuttle operates 24 hours a day. Trains run throughout the night.
From Calais (France to UK)
Services from Calais also operate 24/7. Drivers should follow signs for LeShuttle – Royaume-Uni. As on the UK side, check-in opens two hours before departure, and you must arrive at least one hour in advance.
How to check real-time Eurotunnel departures
🔴 The Live Eurotunnel timetable above displays current departure and arrival information directly from the operator’s feed. It shows the departures on any given day.
Updates refresh automatically throughout the day. You can also find service updates on digital boards at both terminals and via the LeShuttle app.
How to book your tickets in advance
Tickets can be purchased at check-in, but it is cheaper and easier to book in advance. Comparing the different tickets is the way to go (for instance, comparing the tickets with Ferry tickets). Use our booking engine below to compare and book tickets:
What if you arrive late or early?
With a Standard Ticket, you must check in at least 1 hour before your booked departure and no more than 4 hours in advance. If you arrive up to 1 hour early or 1 hour late, you can usually take the next available train, subject to space. Arriving more than one hour late may result in your ticket being voided. Please plan your trip carefully and amend your booking in advance if necessary.
A Flexiplus Ticket gives complete freedom to travel on any train on your booked date. You check in and are allocated the next available departure. Check-in closes at 23:59 on your travel day. Flexiplus also includes priority boarding and access to dedicated lounges, making it the most flexible option for Channel Tunnel crossings.
Questions About the LeShuttle Timetable
How long does it take to go through the Channel Tunnel?
We mentioned this earlier on the page, but this question comes up frequently: the train journey itself takes approximately 35 minutes. Including check-in, security, and border control, plan for a total of roughly 2 to 3 hours from terminal arrival to exit on the other side. See 🔴 the live timetable at the top of this page for current status.
What is the check-in time window for Standard vs Flexiplus tickets?
Standard tickets: check-in at least 1 hour before your booked time and no more than 4 hours in advance. If you arrive up to 1 hour early or 1 hour late, you can usually be placed on the next available departure, subject to space. Flexiplus: travel on any train on your booked date; you will be allocated the next available departure on arrival. Details are on the tickets page: Eurotunnel tickets & prices.
Do departure times run overnight and early morning?
Yes. Services operate 24/7. Overnight and early-morning departures are available in both directions, with frequency varying by time of day. Check the 🔴 the live timetable above!
How much extra time should I allow during peak season or bank holidays?
Queues at security and border control are longer on summer weekends, school holidays, and bank holidays. Add at least 30 to 60 minutes buffer on top of the usual 1-hour minimum arrival time for Standard tickets. If timing is tight, consider Flexiplus: ticket options.
Are UK and France in the same time zone for departures and arrivals?
No. France is 1 hour ahead of the UK. Always check local time on the day of travel when planning your arrival and departure windows.
If I miss my booked departure, how quickly can I be reallocated?
If you arrive within the ticket’s flexibility window, you are typically moved to the next available train, subject to space. Outside that window, a fare difference or a new ticket may apply. For policy details, see: tickets & prices.
How far in advance can I see live departures?
Live information is updated continuously.
How long does border control take with pets?
Allow additional time for pet document checks and microchip verification before boarding. Please bring the required papers and arrive well within your scheduled check-in window. Full pet rules here: travel with pets.
How much total time should I plan if I have a fixed appointment after arrival?
For Standard tickets, plan 2 to 3 hours from terminal to terminal, plus your onward drive time to your destination. If the arrival time is critical, consider a wider window or Flexiplus.
Do coaches, vans, or trailers change the timing?
Processing is broadly similar, but longer vehicles and trailers may be directed to specific lanes, which can add a few minutes to the wait time at busy times. Arrive within your required window and follow lane signage.
What happens to my return time if my outbound is delayed?
Your outbound delay does not automatically change the return booking. If your plans shift, amend the return according to your ticket rules. See options on: tickets & prices.
Where can I check for safety or restricted items that could slow boarding?
Items such as LPG-powered vehicles and certain hazardous goods have restrictions that can affect boarding. Review guidance before you travel: Channel Tunnel safety regulations.
Is there a recommended arrival time for the duty-free shop that won't risk my slot?
You cannot check in earlier than the time specified on your ticket. If you arrive very early, you can use the terminal facilities, but please keep track of time so that you still check in at least 1 hour before your booked departure.
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