The English Channel
The English Channel is a narrow strait separating southern England from northern France, one of the world's busiest shipping lanes and site of the historic Channel Tunnel.
Separating two nations by as little as 21 miles at its narrowest point, this historic strait has witnessed pivotal historical events while remaining one of the busiest waterways on Earth.
Separating England and France
The English Channel separates southern England from northern France, narrowing to just about 21 miles at its closest point, the Strait of Dover.
One of the World's Busiest Shipping Lanes
The Channel ranks among the busiest shipping lanes in the world, with enormous volumes of maritime traffic passing through its waters annually.
The Channel Tunnel
The Channel Tunnel, completed in 1994, allows train travel beneath the strait, directly connecting England and France without sea crossing.
Significant Historical Crossings
The Channel has been the site of numerous historically significant crossings, including the D-Day invasion during World War II and Napoleon's unrealized invasion plans.