Is there some other train than Eurostar to go from Lille to London?

Question

Is there a cheaper/slower alternative to Eurostar between Lille and London?

Answer 1

No. To go between France and the UK by train, you need to cross the Channel Tunnel. Only three types of trains cross the Channel tunnel:

• Eurostar high-speed trains carrying passengers
• Eurotunnel shuttles carrying vehicles
• Freight trains

The Tunnel will soon open to competition, but the other competitors are likely to be high-speed trains heading to other locations, with similar prices.

I think the cheapest way of crossing the tunnel is with a bicycle, if you have one. It may not be as cheap if you need to rent a bicycle or to buy one in Lille and sell it off in London or if you factor in the expenses along the way.

If you book a little in advance, a bus is likely to be cheaper overall. At least Eurolines and Idbus. The journey time is about 6 hours, as opposed to 1½ hours by train.

You can also investigate ferry crossings. Since the train is faster and more comfortable, ferries can but compete on price.

Answer 2

You can use a combination of "classical" trains and ferry.

• Take a local train from Lille to Calais.
• Walk or take a taxi to the ferry terminal.
• Cross the channel by ferry to Dover.
• Take a bus from the ferry terminal to the train station.
• Take a train to London (plenty of options).

A detailed description with up-to date information is available here: http://www.seat61.com/London-Paris-ferry.htm

This option is only cheaper if you book on shorter notice. If the Eurostar is booked in advance it will be cheaper.

Answer 3

If you have a vehicle, you can use the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle.

(onboard, source)

Passenger vehicles are carried in a car shuttle train, made up of closed wagons. You can get out and walk along inside, and there are bathrooms, but otherwise it's fairly basic.

Prices start at £23 each way