If you cannot take a train or flight, or you want to find the cheapest way to get from London to Lille, taking a bus or coach is the best way to get from England to northern France.

National Express operate coaches to Lille in cooperation with the European company Eurolines. Their buses are relatively comfortable and offer air conditioning and free WiFi on board.

Departures take place from London’s Victoria Coach station four times a day, with three daytime buses to Lille at 8:00, 9:30, and 14:00 and one overnight bus to Lille at 21:30.

The driving time from London to Lille is 6.5 to 7.5 hours on the timetables. However, depending on traffic, coach schedules, and ferry times, journeys can take longer. As such, make sure to allow yourself extra time if you plan to make a connection when you arrive in France.

Fares for National Express and Eurolines buses from London to Lille can cost from £20 if you buy bus tickets online in advance. If you’re not planning to visit Lille itself, you can take a coach or train from there to your final destination in Europe.