With so many places to visit and such a long history, it is no wonder that the UK ranks as one of the worlds most visited destinations. Every part of the United Kingdom has its own character and atmosphere, from the laid back country lanes of Devon, to the culture and excitement of London.

Nearly every major city in the UK has plenty to offer visitors of all ages. Though the United Kingdom is part of Europe, it is divided from Europe by the English Channel and you will find ports all over the Britain and Ireland which will take you to destinations all around the mainland of Europe.

One of the biggest ports in England, Dover, has considerable traffic to France, Belgium and beyond. The Dover to Calais route is served by several competing companies, including Hoverspeed, P&O and SeaFrance. It is a two hour journey and the larger ferries have all kinds of amenities and entertainment onboard. There are up to 60 crossings every day between these major hubs.

Not too far away from Dover is Folkestone, also in Kent. You can catch a ferry from here to Boulogne-sur-Mer, France, with crossings every few hours. Within an hour you should be their, if the sea is calm when you cross.

Anther major British port is Liverpool Port. Passengers may travel directly to Dublin from here using services provided by P&O Irish Sea Ferries. A crossing from Liverpool to the Isle of Man is available from SeaCat Ferries.

On the south coast, you will find several major British ports, including Southampton, Bournemouth, Poole, and Plymouth. Southampton is particularly busy with ferries departing to various destinations. Operator Red Funnel runs a vehicle ferry service offering 17 departures daily onto East Cowes, with a total duration of 55 minutes.

Plymouth is located in Devon in the South West peninsula of England. A strategically important dock for the Royal Navy, this port resides at the mouth of the famous River Tamar. Brittany Ferries runs a regular service from here to Roscoff, France and this is a seven hour crossing. A 30 hour journey will take you on to Santander, Spain, from Plymouth port.

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