A Surprisingly Easy Family Trip to France – No Planes, No Stress!
We recently travelled to France with P&O Ferries, and honestly? I don’t think we’ll ever fly for a short European break again. Travelling from the UK by ferry was incredibly easy - especially with two kids in tow - and it made the whole start of the trip feel like part of the holiday. Despite being only 2-nights, 3-days away, we all switched off and enjoyed quality time together!
No airports, no security queues, no luggage limits. We simply packed up the car, drove onto the ferry, and set off. Everything stayed in the boot—snacks, toys, travel cots, even that ‘just in case’ stuff you normally have to leave behind when flying. It was stress-free and smooth from start to finish. Boarding was quick and easy, and within minutes we were exploring the ship.
The ferry itself was well equipped for families. There were two canteen-style cafes, a comfy lounge bar, plenty of space to sit and relax, and even a small soft play area for younger kids. The unexpected highlight? The ‘quiet lounge’—a peaceful space with reclining leather chairs and massage seats (yes, they’re paid-for, and yes, the kids convinced Daddy to splash out 😂).
We arrived in France by midday, feeling relaxed and ready to explore. Like most of the ferry crowd, we made a quick stop at the first supermarket for fresh baguettes and croissants—because, when in France! Then we headed to Cap Gris-Nez for a leg stretch and to look back across the Channel to where we’d just come from.
From there, it was less than an hour’s drive to our base at Trois Tilleuls, along quiet, scenic country roads. So easy and so much calmer than a long UK drive!
Our accommodation was on a traditional working farm—complete with cows and alpacas—and had a lovely honesty shop filled with local produce. The kids loved seeing the animals up close, and we loved the peace and quiet.
The weather was a bit typically British, so we spent a day at Nausicaá Aquarium in Boulogne-sur-Mer. It’s apparently the largest in Europe, and it really impressed us—four big exhibitions, loads of interactive areas, and plenty to keep everyone engaged for hours.
We also made time for a visit to Saint-Omer for pastries (obviously) and wandered around Calais, which has a surprisingly lovely beach front and loads of family-friendly activities. Then it was time to head home. Boarding the ferry back was just as easy, and we were back in the UK before we knew it.
Honestly, the whole trip felt easier and more relaxing than a weekend in Devon or Cornwall. No traffic jams, no tired kids crammed in the back of the car for hours, and no airport stress. Just a smooth ferry ride, an easy drive, and a lot of French pastries.
Here's some snapshots of our highlights!
