The Ultimate Guide To Traveling From London To Ghent

Are you planning a trip from the bustling city of London to the picturesque town of Ghent? Look no further! This ultimate guide will take you on a journey through the best routes, transportation options, and must-see attractions along the way. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a charming European getaway, this guide has everything you need to make your trip from London to Ghent unforgettable. So pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready to embark on an adventure like no other!

Getting to Ghent from London by train

Are you planning to travel to Ghent from London? One of the best ways to reach Ghent is by train. The train journey not only offers convenience but also allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty along the way. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to get to Ghent from London by train.

Step 1: Start at London St. Pancras International

The first step to reach Ghent from London is to start your journey at the London St. Pancras International station. This station is well-connected and easily accessible via public transportation. Make sure to arrive at the station well in advance to avoid any last-minute rush.

Step 2: Board the Eurostar

Once you reach London St. Pancras International, head to the Eurostar check-in area. Make sure to have your ticket and passport handy. Security checks will be conducted before boarding the train. Once you clear the security checks, proceed to the boarding gate as mentioned on your ticket.

Step 3: Journey to Brussels

The Eurostar train will take you from London to Brussels. This leg of the journey is quite comfortable, and you can relax or enjoy the onboard amenities, such as the café and Wi-Fi. The journey takes approximately 2 hours. Once you reach Brussels, follow the signs to the main station.

Step 4: Transfer at Brussels Midi/Zuid

At Brussels, you will need to transfer to a local train to reach Ghent. Head to the Brussels Midi/Zuid station, which is located within the same building as the Eurostar terminal. Check the departure boards or ask the station staff for the next train to Ghent. Trains to Ghent run frequently, so you should have no trouble finding a suitable train.

Step 5: Sit back and enjoy

Once you board the local train to Ghent, sit back, relax, and enjoy the picturesque Belgian countryside. The train journey from Brussels to Ghent takes approximately 30 minutes. You can also use this time to plan your itinerary or simply admire the passing landscapes.

Step 6: Arrive at Ghent

After a comfortable journey, you will finally arrive at Ghent. Get off the train at the Ghent-Sint-Pieters station, which is the main train station in Ghent. From the station, you can easily access public transportation or choose to walk to your accommodation if it is nearby.

That's it! You have successfully traveled from London to Ghent by train. Remember to check the train schedules and book your tickets in advance to ensure a smooth journey. The train is not only a convenient mode of transportation but also offers a delightful travel experience. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy your journey to Ghent!

Flying from London to Ghent: travel options

If you're planning a trip from London to Ghent, one of the easiest and quickest ways to travel is by flying. There are several options available for flights from London to Ghent, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Here are the travel options for flying from London to Ghent:

• Brussels Airport (BRU): The closest major airport to Ghent is Brussels Airport, which is located about 70 kilometers away. There are direct flights from London to Brussels Airport operated by multiple airlines. The flight duration is typically around 1 hour and 10 minutes. Once you arrive at Brussels Airport, you can travel to Ghent by train, taxi, or private transfer.
• London City Airport (LCY) to Antwerp Airport (ANR): Another option is to fly from London City Airport to Antwerp Airport. There are direct flights operated by CityJet, with a flight duration of approximately 1 hour. From Antwerp Airport, you can take a train or taxi to Ghent, which is about a 40-minute journey.
• London Stansted Airport (STN) to Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL): If you're looking for a budget option, you can fly from London Stansted Airport to Brussels South Charleroi Airport. Ryanair operates regular flights between these two airports, with a flight duration of around 1 hour and 10 minutes. From Brussels South Charleroi Airport, you can take a shuttle bus or taxi to Brussels Midi/Zuid train station, and then catch a train to Ghent.

Once you arrive in Ghent, there are convenient transportation options to get to the city center. The city is well-connected by train, with regular services from Ghent-Sint-Pieters station to other Belgian cities, as well as international destinations. You can also choose to take a taxi or use public transportation, such as buses or trams, to reach your accommodation or explore the city.

When planning your trip, make sure to book your flight well in advance to secure the best fares. Take into consideration the location of the airports, flight durations, and the available transportation options to find the most convenient and cost-effective way to travel from London to Ghent.

Driving to Ghent from London: routes and tips

If you're planning a trip from London to Ghent, one of the most convenient and flexible options is to drive. Driving not only allows you to have control over your itinerary, but it also gives you the freedom to explore the beautiful countryside along the way. In this article, we will guide you through the routes and provide some useful tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable road trip.

Routes:

• The Eurotunnel route: The Eurotunnel is a popular choice for travelers who want the convenience of taking their car across the Channel. From London, you can drive to Folkestone and board the Eurotunnel shuttle, which will take you to Calais in just 35 minutes. From Calais, it's approximately a 2.5-hour drive to Ghent via the E40 motorway.
• The ferry route: Another option is to take a ferry from Dover to Calais or Dunkirk. From London, you can drive to Dover and board a ferry, which is a relaxing and scenic way to start your journey. Once you reach Calais or Dunkirk, it's a straightforward drive to Ghent via the E40 motorway.

Tips:

• Plan your route: Before you set off, make sure to plan your route in advance. Use a reliable navigation system or GPS device to ensure you stay on track. Consider using a map as a backup, as some areas might have limited or no GPS signal.
• Check for toll roads: Depending on your preferred route, you might encounter toll roads along the way. Research and be prepared to pay the required tolls either in cash or via electronic payment methods. It's also a good idea to carry some local currency in case you need to pay for parking or other expenses.
• Familiarize yourself with local driving regulations: Take some time to familiarize yourself with the driving regulations in both the UK and Belgium. Remember to drive on the right-hand side of the road in Belgium and adhere to the speed limits.
• Consider traveling during off-peak hours: To avoid heavy traffic and congestion, it's advisable to plan your journey outside of peak hours. If possible, start your journey early in the morning or later in the evening to make the most of the open roads.
• Take breaks and stay hydrated: Long drives can be tiring, so it's important to take regular breaks and stay hydrated. Plan to stop at service stations along the way for restroom breaks, snacks, and fuel. Stretch your legs and take short walks to help stay alert during the journey.
• Check your vehicle before setting off: Before embarking on your road trip, check your vehicle's oil, tires, brakes, and lights. Ensure that everything is in good working order and have any necessary repairs or maintenance carried out beforehand. It's also a good idea to pack an emergency kit with essentials such as a flashlight, spare tire, and a first aid kit.

Driving from London to Ghent is a fantastic way to explore the picturesque landscapes and charming towns of both countries. With the right preparation and a spirit of adventure, your road trip to Ghent is sure to be a memorable one. Safe travels!

Taking a ferry from London to Ghent: transportation options

If you're planning a trip from London to Ghent, taking a ferry can be a convenient and enjoyable transportation option. The journey by ferry offers a scenic route across the English Channel, allowing you to relax and enjoy the views. Here are some transportation options for taking a ferry from London to Ghent.

Ferry from London to Ghent via Dover

• The most common ferry route from London to Ghent involves traveling via Dover, a port town in southeast England. From London, you can take a train or a coach to Dover, which typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
• Once you reach Dover, you can board a ferry at the Dover Ferry Terminal. There are several ferry companies operating on this route, such as DFDS and P&O Ferries.
• The ferry journey from Dover to Calais, a port town in northern France, takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the weather and sea conditions.
• After arriving in Calais, you can take a train or drive to Ghent. The train journey from Calais to Ghent typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, with a transfer at Brussels. Alternatively, you can rent a car in Calais and drive to Ghent, which takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

Ferry from London to Ghent via Hull or Newcastle

• Another option is to take a ferry from London to Ghent via Hull or Newcastle. This route involves a longer ferry journey but can be more convenient if you're located in northern England or Scotland.
• To reach Hull or Newcastle from London, you can take a train, a coach, or a domestic flight. The train journey from London to Hull or Newcastle typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
• Once you reach Hull or Newcastle, you can board a ferry operated by P&O Ferries. The ferry journey from Hull to Zeebrugge, a port in Belgium, takes approximately 15 hours, while the Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry journey takes around 15.5 hours.
• After arriving in Zeebrugge or Amsterdam, you can drive or take a train to Ghent. The driving time from Zeebrugge to Ghent is about 1 hour, while the train journey from Amsterdam to Ghent typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.

Planning your journey

• When planning your journey, it's advisable to check the ferry schedules and book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Make sure to arrive at the ferry terminal well in advance to allow time for check-in, security procedures, and boarding.
• If you're traveling by car, check the requirements for bringing a vehicle on board, including any necessary documentation and insurance coverage.
• Consider the additional costs of transportation from the ferry ports to your destination in Ghent, such as train tickets or car rental fees.
• Keep in mind that ferry schedules and routes may be subject to change, so it's always a good idea to double-check the latest information before your departure.

Taking a ferry from London to Ghent can be a convenient and enjoyable way to travel. Whether you choose the Dover route or opt for the Hull or Newcastle route, you'll have the opportunity to relax, enjoy the scenery, and arrive in Ghent ready to explore all that this beautiful Belgian city has to offer.

Frequently asked questions