brianagain

I remember learning the meaning of these signs (AB6 & AB7) from filling out the "I Spy in France" booklet we took on holiday to France with our children many years ago. Perhaps the AA/RAC should give out copies of this booklet at the ferry ports instead (assuming it is still in print) Brian

Have used this route for many years. Gradually improving as it's brought up to autoroute standard but still to my mind a long boring stretch of road (apart from the brief views of the cathedral on the Chartres ring road) but agree with Ernie Y that it's not worth using another route if you're using it to avoid Paris on your way south on to the A71. (especially once you have mastered the route through Rouen). Brian

There are reasonably regular TER services both from Frethun to Lille Europe - takes just over 30 mins or there is the slow option from Calais town station to Lille Flandres (about 90 mins). I have been on Eurostar services that have stopped at Frethun but I believe that is the exception. Check out the RailEurope (www.raileurope.co.uk) website which will give you full times for your chosen date and will allow you to buy tickets online in £ sent to a UK address. Coming from either station (esp. L Europe) don't forget to allow plenty time for the stroll into the city centre or otherwise you could take the Metro to Pl. Rihour. We have visited the Xmas market in Lille a couple of times but usually opt to park at the Carrefour centre commercial in Lomme (just off the A25 motorway) and then travel into Lille on the Metro from St Philibert station. Hope you enjoy the market and get to ride the big wheel. Brian