How to get here

The Cross-Channel Geopark spans both the UK and France, offering seamless access across the Channel. Whether you’re traveling from the UK or France, getting to the Geopark is easy, with well-connected transport links that bring you to both sides of this unique cross-border destination. Here’s how you can reach the Geopark:

By Car

From the UK:
The Geopark is easily accessible by car from the UK, with major routes connecting directly to key locations. From London, take the M20 motorway, and it’s about a 1.5-hour drive to the Kent Downs area. Once in Kent, the Geopark’s sites are just a short drive away.

From France:
From Calais, it’s a scenic a scenic 20 to 30-minute drive along the D940 coastal route to the Geopark’s key French locations. The roads are well-connected, making it easy to explore the region by car.

By Train

From the UK:
Kent is well-connected by train and easy to reach from London and other major cities. Take the Southeastern High-Speed service from London St Pancras to Ashford International (38 minutes). From Ashford, local trains or buses will bring you to various Geopark sites in the Kent Downs area.

From France:
Travel from Paris Gare du Nord to Calais Ville using a TGV or Intercités service – the journey takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Once in Calais-Fréthun, local buses, taxis or driving routes will take you to Geopark landmarks such as Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez.

Cross Channel Travel

By Ferry

The Cross-Channel Geopark is directly linked via regular ferry services. DFDS Seaways and P&O Ferries offer frequent services between Dover and Calais, with a crossing time of around 1.5 hours. Once across, local transport or car travel makes it easy to continue your journey on either side.

By Train (Eurostar)

• From Paris, Lille, Brussels, and Avignon, the Eurostar provides high-speed services to London, with connections via Southeastern trains to reach the Kent region.

• From London, Eurostar services run to Paris, where you can take connecting trains to Calais, offering a seamless rail route to the northern part of the Geopark.

By Car Shuttle (Eurotunnel Le Shuttle)

If you’re driving, the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle offers a quick and easy way to bring your car across the Channel. Trains run frequently between Folkestone and Calais , with the crossing taking just 35 minutes. You stay in your vehicle the entire time, making it ideal for a seamless road trip across both sides of the Geopark.