Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is one of the most visited cities in Europe. From London, the capital of the United Kingdom, people can go to Dublin through various means of transportation. With the introduction of Brexit, things may have changed, but the journey from the United Kingdom to Ireland is still an amazing experience. In this article, we will take a look at the best travel options from London to Dublin.
Flights
Flights from London to Dublin are extremely easy to find. There are numerous direct flights from the main airports of London such as Gatwick, Stansted and Heathrow, while other airports, such as London Luton, also have direct flights to Dublin. The most common flight companies that travel from London to Dublin are British Airways, Aer Lingus and Ryanair, all of which offer daily flights. The duration of the flights may vary, as some flights have layovers, while other are direct. The average flight duration is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
The cost of flights from London to Dublin vary, depending on the airport chosen and the company. Generally, the higher the cost, the less time is spent in the air. Ryanair is the cheapest option, with fares starting at £20, while Aer Lingus is the most expensive with fares starting at £80. The best way to find a good deal is by shopping around and comparing fares.
Ferries
Ferries are another great way of traveling from London to Dublin since they offer an amazing experience. The most popular ferry company used on this route is Stena Line. Ferries from London to Dublin usually leave from Holyhead, Wales and take between 12 and 14 hours. They usually depart in the late evening and arrive early in the morning, depending on the type of ferry service chosen.
The cost of ferries from London to Dublin vary according to the type of service chosen and the time of the year. Prices usually start from £45, with the option to save some money by booking in advance. Ferries also offer the option to carry vehicles, so travelers will be able to take their cars, motorcycles, and even boats with them. It is important to keep in mind that passengers will need to have a valid passport or a photo ID from United Kingdom and Ireland.
Trains
Taking a train from London to Dublin is a great way to experience the wonderful scenery of the countryside. Travelers can choose from a variety of different train services, including the Eurostar, which departs from Waterloo Station in London. The journey usually takes about 10 hours and 15 minutes and is one of the most convenient ways of traveling from London to Dublin; however, it is also one of the most expensive, with prices starting from £99.
Those who are looking for a more budget friendly alternative should opt for the direct trains from London Euston to Dublin which can take up to 9 hours and cost as little as £45. The direct trains usually depart every day with the first train departing at 6:30 AM and the last departing at 8 PM.
Driving
Driving from London to Dublin is an amazing way to explore the United Kingdom and Ireland. Many people choose to make the journey by car, as it allows them to have a unique experience. The drive usually takes around 10 hours and the cost of fuel will vary depending on the type of car. The M1 road is the most popular route and it will lead travelers to Dublin by way of the North Sea.
Those who are driving will need to make sure they have all the necessary documents such as a valid driver’s license, insurance documents and an international driving permit (IDP). It is also important to check if there are any fees, taxes or tolls to be paid upon entering Ireland or in the process of crossing the border.
Hitchhiking
Hitchhiking is the least expensive way of traveling from London to Dublin. It is also a great way to meet new people and to experience the culture of both countries. Those who choose to hitchhike will usually need to wait a few hours or even a full day before they find someone willing to pick them up but, once they do, they can expect to get a ride all the way to Dublin.
Hitchhiking is not without its risks, however, so it is important to take all necessary precautions before setting off. It is also important to note that hitchhiking is not allowed in certain areas, so it is best to check the local regulations before hitting the road.
Environmental Impact
When traveling from London to Dublin, travelers should be aware of the environmental impact their journeys will have. The various transportation options should be compared in terms of their carbon footprint as this will allow travelers to make a more informed decision when it comes to the best way to travel from London to Dublin. Flying has by far the highest carbon footprint per passenger while ferries and trains have a much smaller environmental impact.
Using electric or hybrid vehicles can also help to reduce the impact on the environment when driving from London to Dublin. In addition, using public transport, such as buses or trains, when in either of the cities can help to reduce the overall environmental impact of the journey.
Safety Precautions
Traveling from London to Dublin is generally a safe journey; however, there are certain safety precautions that travelers should take. It is important to be aware of pickpockets, especially in large cities such as London and Dublin, and to take sensible precautions such as keeping any bags zippered and keeping wallets in safe, hidden places. Travelers should also make sure to carry a valid ID with them at all times and to keep any valuables such as passports or credit cards in a safe, secure place.
It is also important to be aware of any political or religious tensions that may be present in either of the cities. For example, London has recently experienced terrorist attacks, while in Dublin gang activity is not uncommon. Being aware of current events and taking sensible precautions can help travelers ensure success and safety when travelling from London to Dublin.
Visas
Depending on the country of origin, travelers from London to Dublin may be required to obtain a visa. Generally, citizens of the European Union and Schengen countries are not required to obtain a visa in order to travel from London to Dublin. However, citizens of countries outside the European Union or Schengen may need to obtain a visa before traveling. Travelers should check the relevant websites for their country of origin to make sure they have the correct documents and visas.
Costs
The cost of traveling from London to Dublin can vary significantly depending on the means of transportation chosen. Generally, flights and direct trains are the most expensive options, while hitchhiking and driving can be the most cost-effective way to travel.
Travelers should take into account all the possible expenses of their journey in order to budget adequately. These can include not just the cost of the journey itself, but also the cost of accommodation, food, attractions and any visas that may be required.
Convenience
The convenience of each means of transportation is also an important factor to consider when deciding which option to use. For example, flying is often the quickest and most convenient option, while driving and hitchhiking may take much longer and involve more stops along the journey.
Ferries and trains are also great options for those who want to take a more scenic route and experience the beauty of the countryside. In the end, the decision of which means of transportation to use from London to Dublin can be determined based on the budget, the time available, and the traveler’s preferences.
