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How to get from Ghent to London
By train it is about 3 h–3 h 30: an SNCB/NMBS train from Gent-Sint-Pieters to Brussels-Midi (about 30–35 min), then Eurostar to London St Pancras (about 2 h). Driving takes about 4–5 h via Calais and the Channel Tunnel shuttle or a ferry.
Best option: Train. It goes city centre to city centre with one easy change and no Channel crossing by car.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| train Train from Gent-Sint-Pieters to Brussels-Midi, then Eurostar to London St Pancras International | about 3 h–3 h 30 including the change | trains to Brussels several times an hour; Eurostar about 8–10 a day | about €60–200 for Eurostar plus about €10–15 to Brussels | Arrive at Brussels-Midi at least 60–90 min before Eurostar departure for passport and security checks. |
| car E40 and A16 to Calais, then Eurotunnel Le Shuttle to Folkestone or a ferry to Dover, then the M20 to London | about 4–5 h | Eurotunnel shuttles several times an hour | fuel plus about €100–250 for the crossing | London has a congestion charge and ULEZ; check before driving into the centre. |
| bus Coaches (FlixBus and others) from Ghent to London via the Channel crossing | about 6–8 h | a few a day | about €30–60 | Cheaper but slow; border checks can add time. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Check the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement for your nationality.
- Book Eurostar early; fares rise sharply close to departure.
- Eurostar tickets often include a Belgian station connection ("any Belgian station" option).
- Allow time for passport checks at Brussels before boarding.
Common questions
Is there a direct train from Ghent to London?
No. You take a train from Gent-Sint-Pieters to Brussels-Midi, about 30–35 minutes, and change to Eurostar for London St Pancras International, about 2 hours. Some Eurostar tickets can include travel from any Belgian station. Allow time for passport and security checks at Brussels.
Do I need a visa or ETA for the UK?
Many visitors who do not need a visa must have a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling. This includes EU nationals. Apply online through the official UK government site before your trip. Check the current rules for your nationality.
How long does the drive take?
About 4–5 hours, including the Channel crossing. You drive to Calais, take Eurotunnel Le Shuttle (about 35 minutes) or a ferry (about 1 h 30), then continue to London. Driving into central London means congestion and ULEZ charges, so many people park outside and use public transport.
What is the cheapest way?
Usually a coach booked ahead. Eurostar can be reasonably priced if booked weeks or months in advance. Driving is cost-effective for groups, but add the crossing fee, fuel, and London charges. Coaches take longer because of the Channel crossing and border checks, but fares booked a few weeks ahead are often the lowest of all options.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.