The English Channel

First crossing by air balloon

Mar 1, 1785

Image source: Wikimedia Commons

First paddle-steamer makes the crossing to carry mail.

Jan 1, 1820

What was the vessel called, and where was it built?

London-Dover railway opened.

Jan 1, 1844

A hotel was built at the dockside to bring comfort to travellers waiting for the next steamer - a stark contrast to the seasickness and fear of shipwreck that they faced on the long steamer crossing.
Image source: www.theotherside.co.uk, Invicta Media 2004

First person to swim across

Oct 9, 1875

The 21 mile swim was completed in 21 hours 45 mins. Who did it, and what was their occupation? Image source: Wikimedia Commons

Construction work starts on a tunnel crossing.

Jan 1, 1880

Why was work halted?

First crossing in an aeroplane

Jul 25, 1909

What was the name of the pilot?

1st woman to swim across.

Aug 6, 1926

The "Queen of the Waves" completed the swim in 14hours30mins. What was her name? Image source: Wikimedia Commons

Official opening of the Channel Tunnel.

May 6, 1994

BBC 1 news coverage of the official openingThe channel tunnel is finally opened over 100 years since construction began.

Slowest (and longest) swim across.

Jul 28, 2010

Jackie Cobell became the slowest ever, having been severely affected by strong currents. How long did she take, and how far did she swim?

Roger Allsopp becomes the oldest person to swim across.

Aug 31, 2011

Roger Allsopp, a retired surgeon completed the swim in 17hours 51 mins. What age was he?