Every year, thousands of tourists travel to the United Kingdom from Belgium. It is a popular destination with its stunning scenery, historical buildings, and vibrant culture that appeals to everyone, from students and families, to friends and couples. The journey to the UK is relatively straight-forward, with several options available for travelling between Belgium and the UK. Read on to find out everything you need to know to start planning your trip to the United Kingdom from Belgium.
Flights from Belgium to the UK
The quickest way to travel from Belgium to the UK is by plane. There are a few international airports in Belgium, including Brussels, Ghent, Liege, and Charleroi. All of these airports offer regular flights to popular destinations in the UK, most notably London. Airlines such as British Airways, KLM, Brussels Airlines, and Easyjet are some of the most popular operators that fly direct flights to London or other UK destinations from Belgium. Prices vary depending on seasonality and how far in advance you book, but generally speaking, a return flight from Brussels to London can cost anywhere from €80-€250.
Trains from Belgium to the UK
Taking the train from Belgium to the UK is also an option, but it is slightly slower than flying. First, you will need to travel to Paris by train from Belgium, and then take an Eurotunnel train from the Gare du Nord in Paris to Ashford International in Kent, UK. The Paris-Ashford route is operated by Eurostar, a high-speed train service that runs regularly throughout the day. The journey time is around 3 hours from Paris to Kent, and tickets cost approximately €45-€60 one-way.
Ferry Travel from Belgium to the UK
If you don’t mind a longer road trip, you can also take a ferry from Belgium to the UK. The ferry route runs from Zeebrugge or Ostend in Belgium to Hull in the UK. It takes around 10 hours to complete the journey, and tickets cost around €50-€80 per person one-way. It’s usually best to book tickets in advance as the price may vary depending on the ferry company.
Driving from Belgium to the UK
If you’d rather travel by car, you can drive from Belgium to the UK. Although it takes a long time to travel by car, it’s also the most cost-effective way to get to the UK. The journey takes around 12 hours, depending on traffic and other factors. You’ll need to arrange your own car hire in Belgium and take the ferry from Belgium to the UK.
Entry Requirements to the UK
If you are travelling from Belgium to the UK, you will need to make sure you comply with the UK’s immigration regulations. All non-EEA nationals will need to obtain a visa before entering the UK. Depending on your nationality, you may be able to apply for an Electronic Visa Waiver or Standard Visitor Visa. You can find out more information and apply for a visa at the UK Government website.
Money & Payments in the UK
The UK uses the British Pound as its currency, which is different from the Euro that is used in Belgium. You can exchange currency at the airport, at your hotel, or at a local exchange bureau. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in the UK, so you can easily pay with your card in shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions. Be sure to check with your bank beforehand to make sure your card works abroad and inform them of your travel plans.
Transportation in the UK
Once you arrive in the UK, you will need to arrange your own transport for travelling within the country. The UK has a great public transportation network, including buses, trains, and the iconic London Underground. Transport for London (TfL) is a good place to start if you’re travelling to London, as it offers a range of ticket options and discounts for visitors.
Accommodation in the UK
There are plenty of options for accommodation in the UK, ranging from hotels and Bed & Breakfasts, to apartments and hostels. Accommodation prices vary according to season and location, so it’s best to book in advance to secure the best deals. Make sure to research the area you’re travelling to so you know what sort of accommodation is available in the area.
Things to do in the UK
The UK is a great destination for sightseeing, as it’s packed with historical buildings, galleries, and museums. It’s also a great place to enjoy the outdoors, with its stunning countryside and beautiful beaches. Some of the top attractions in the UK include the Tower of London, Stonehenge, the Scottish Highlands, and the Natural History Museum. There are also plenty of festivals, concerts, and other events taking place throughout the year.
FAQs
- Q: What is the best way to travel to the UK from Belgium?
- A: The quickest and easiest way to travel from Belgium to the UK is by plane. There are several international airports in Belgium offering direct flights to the UK.
- Q: Do I need a visa to enter the UK from Belgium?
- A: Yes, all non-EEA nationals need to obtain a visa to enter the UK. You can apply for a visa at the UK Government website.
- Q: What is the currency used in the UK?
- A: The currency used in the UK is the British Pound.
- Q: What are some of the top attractions to visit in the UK?
- A: Some of the top attractions in the UK include the Tower of London, Stonehenge, the Scottish Highlands, and the Natural History Museum.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for an exciting city break or a relaxing countryside escape, the UK is a great destination for travellers from Belgium. With its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and plenty of things to do, it’s easy to see why so many choose to make the journey from Belgium to the UK each year. Before you travel, make sure to check the entry requirements, arrange your accommodation, and organise your transport for when you’re there. With the right planning in place, you’re in for a trip to remember!
