Calais-A Touch of England in France
The port of Calais in northern France is arguably one of the most disputed territories in history, with an almost constant war for possession being fought between the English and French for nearly 500 years. Throughout its history, Calais has swapped hands many times, before finally being settled as a French territory in the 20th century.
However, the city remains undeniably English in many ways; one cannot wipe away years of history with one simple treaty agreement. While on mainland France, Calais is also connected by the Channel Tunnel and rail links to England. For many people living in Southern England, it is actually easier to pop over to Calais – France – than it is to visit England’s second city, Birmingham.
Calais has become famous over recent decades as the natural watering hole of the cruise day tripper; visitors from England, with its high alcohol taxation, flock to the more affordable Calais and buy as much alcohol as can feasibly be transported. This constant use by visiting English day trippers has kept much of Calais predominantly English; particularly close to the port, signs and road directions are given in English as well as French, and English food is readily available.
However, should one get the chance to venture beyond the warehouses of alcoholic plenty in Calais, there is more to see of this city. While it is easy to have a general perception of Calais as a somewhat dank and miserable industrial area, if explored a little deeper, it becomes charmingly French in style and custom with plenty to offer even the most casual day tripper.
The main square and meeting area in Calais is as French as any southern town, with charming architecture and stunning floral arrangements dotting the town. The town is full of adorable little French shops, selling scrumptious French cheeses and fragrant coffee; both of which would make a wonderful afternoon pick-me-up. So the next time you plan a stop in Calais to stock up the wine cellar, why not book ferry or tunnel crossings a little further apart, and enjoy this town and it’s Anglo-French history for awhile.
