Three Tunnels, Not One

The Channel Tunnel is actually three parallel tunnels: two for trains and one central service tunnel for maintenance and evacuation. The service tunnel has cross-passages every 375 meters for fresh air and emergency escape. The crossing from Folkestone to Coquelles takes 35 minutes at speeds up to 160 km/h.

The system handles well over 400 trains daily, carrying passengers, cars, and freight. Eurostar trains share the rails with car shuttles and freight services, making the crossing one of the busiest rail links in Europe.