The English Channel

The English Channel is a narrow strip of sea between England and France. It connects the Atlantic Ocean to the North Sea. At its narrowest point, it is only about 21 miles wide. The channel is one of the busiest waterways in the world.

Crossing the Channel

People have crossed the English Channel by boat for thousands of years. In 1875, Captain Matthew Webb became the first person to swim across it. Today, the Channel Tunnel, also called the Chunnel, runs under the water. Trains zip through it between England and France.

The Channel Today

Hundreds of ships pass through the English Channel every day. Ferries carry people and cars between England and France. The channel has strong currents and can be foggy. The White Cliffs of Dover on the English side are a famous sight for travelers.

Fun Facts

• The Channel Tunnel is about 31 miles long and runs under the seabed.
• It takes about 35 minutes to travel through the Channel Tunnel by train.
• The English Channel is called La Manche, meaning the sleeve, in French.

Did You Know?

During World War II, the English Channel helped protect England from invasion, and the famous D-Day invasion crossed the channel to free France!