Hop across to France

Kent's position as the nearest part of England to France makes it easy to hop across the Channel to the beautiful Nord-Pas de Calais and Picardy regions of France.

The area is split into Nord, which borders Belgium and combines a typically French atmosphere with a distinctive Flemish flavour; Pas de Calais, which includes the main French channel ports of Calais and Boulogne; and Picardy, renowned for its stunning coast and river - dominated landscapes.

It takes just 35 minutes with Eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais, or you can catch the high-speed train, Eurostar, from Ashford International to Lille and Paris. Or, travel by ferry with P&O Ferries and Seafrance from Dover to Calais, Norfolkline from Dover to Dunkerque. Once you reach Nord-Pas de Calais, there is a multitude of things to see and do. Admire the Flemish architecture in historic towns such as Lille or stock up on fine cheeses and wines in the tax-free hypermarkets of Calais and Boulogne. Enjoy an invigorating walk, cycle or horse ride in the fertile valleys of the Nord, sail in the magical Bay of the Somme or relax on the stunning Picardy beaches. You'll also have plenty of opportunity to sample the gastronomic specialities such as coq á la bière, (the Nord's answer to coq au vin).

 

Visit Dover Ferry Port's website for the latest special offers on ferries to France.