Even though the Channel Tunnel linking the UK to mainland Europe has been open for 27 years, there still seems to be abundant confusion between the two popular train services that use it – Eurotunnel Le Shuttle and Eurostar.
Not sure which is which, or how to choose between the two options? It really depends on where you want to go and how you want to travel. We clear up some myths.
Are Eurotunnel Le Shuttle & Eurostar the same company?
No. The Channel Tunnel is the longest undersea tunnel in the world at 38km long and Eurostar uses Eurotunnel’s tunnel, and is one of their biggest customers.
Where can I board Eurotunnel and Eurostar?
Eurotunnel’s UK boarding point is in Folkestone, Kent.
Eurostar runs from three UK stations on the same line: St Pancras International, Ebbsfleet International and Ashford International.
Where can I go?
Eurotunnel Le Shuttle runs solely between Folkestone and Calais.
The main Eurostar routes go to Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam, with some seasonal routes and connections across France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany.
Can I take my car?
Eurotunnel Le Shuttle carries freight and all forms of vehicles, including cars, motorbikes, campervans, caravans, coaches and lorries. You cannot travel as a foot passenger on Eurotunnel, but you are able to take a bicycle.
Eurostar trains are for foot passengers only.
Covid measures
Eurotunnel allows you to remain in your vehicle at all times, so there is no contact with staff or other passengers. You are not required to wear a mask in your vehicle unless travelling by motorcycle or a convertible car with the roof down.
Eurostar carriages are cleaned regularly, and some seats are left free to allow for social distancing. Masks should be worn for the duration of the journey and in the stations.
Can I take my pet?
Eurotunnel allows you to travel with a pet for an additional cost of £22 each way (assistance dogs are exempt), providing you have the necessary paperwork. You can also travel with your horse.
With so many new pet owners emerging from the pandemic, it’s not surprising to see that more than 25,000 pets have joined their families on Eurotunnel in August 2021 (one way).
Eurostar allows assistance dogs to travel with their owners.
How long is the journey?
Eurotunnel takes just 35 minutes between Folkestone and Calais.
Eurostar takes approximately 2.5 hours to reach Paris from London.
Frequency
Eurotunnel runs up to four shuttle departures per hour during peak times.
Eurostar generally runs a service every 30 minutes during peak times but is currently running a reduced service due to Covid restrictions.
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