The Channel Tunnel (Chunnel): UK–France Rail Link Under the Sea

The Channel Tunnel ("Chunnel") is a 50.5 km (31.4 mi) undersea rail tunnel linking Folkestone, UK to Coquelles (near Calais), France beneath the Strait of Dover.

Key Specs

• Built: 1988–1994; opened 6 May 1994.
• Operator: Getlink (Eurotunnel).
• Three bores: Two single-track rail tunnels (7.6 m diameter) + one service tunnel.
• Trains: LeShuttle (car/coach/lorry carriers), Eurostar (high-speed passenger, 300 km/h), freight.
• Transit time: 35 min tunnel; 2 hr 15 min London–Paris city center.
• Daily traffic: ~10,000 passengers + freight.

Significance

Only fixed link between Britain and continental Europe. Transformed trade, tourism, commuting. Engineering marvel—longest undersea tunnel worldwide.