Folkestone Eurotunnel Terminal

Welcome to the Folkestone (UK) section of FerryCrossings.org, the site for information about major UK and continental ports and the ferries between them. Our site includes an introduction to a number of ports and feature pages about the various crossing ways, lanes and routes and companies operating between them to help you plan your journey and discover interesting travel destinations along the way.

Folkestone

Want to cross the Channel without getting your feet wet and in just over half an hour? Then you can make it easy for yourself by going from Folkestone to Calais via Eurotunnel. Folkestone, in Kent, has evolved into its present day situation from a tiny hamlet whose proximity to the mainland coast of France and the continent was a defining factor. Its subsequent importance is signified by its inclusion in the 13th century group of English south-coast ports known as the 'Cinque Ports'. With this distinction came the associated benefits of becoming a wealthy trading port and key defence of the realm. The need for a purpose-built harbour became of added importance in the 18th century as it became increasingly necessary for the town to have strong defences in place and a safe anchorage for boats. The advent of steam and the coming of the 'Railway Age' only added to Folkestone's prosperity as the town became increasingly popular as a tourist resort. It enjoyed the twin benefits of trade and leisure until the mid 20th century when opportunities to travel abroad, both cheaply and increasingly more easily, became available to everyone.

However, the town hasn't suffered as greatly as many others in the latter years of the 20th century and still has much to offer its visitors. A stop-over here makes a pleasant and worthwhile break in any journey to Europe or back.The town is situated on the edge of the stunning North Downs, a designated area of outstanding beauty. As part of the town's regeneration projects, and a desire to foster the artistic and cultural life of the town, a new theatre and creative quarter is part of an on-going development encouraging artists, musicians and creative talents to make Folkestone their base. The town has much to offer whether or not its history, music, art or literature that is your interest, and all this can be enjoyed against the backdrop of the Downs, the harbour or the beach.