The Newhaven–Dieppe ferry is the most direct way from the south of England to Normandy: you board in East Sussex and step off in Dieppe harbour about 4 hours later, with your car. No motorway across northern France, no Channel Tunnel queues. Our holiday home Le Carré Vue Mer is in Pourville-sur-Mer, 5 km west of Dieppe. From the ferry ramp to our front door is about 10 minutes, which makes it one of the closest places in Normandy to stay when you come from England.
Journey times to Pourville-sur-Mer (approximate, without traffic)
London to Newhaven: about 100 km, around 2 hours by car
Brighton to Newhaven: about 15 km, around 20 minutes
Ferry crossing: Newhaven to Dieppe, about 4 hours
Dieppe ferry terminal to Pourville: about 5 km, around 10 minutes
Via Dover–Calais instead: about 2 hours 45 from Calais to Pourville by motorway
Via the Channel Tunnel: the same drive from Coquelles, about 2 hours 45
The crossing, step by step
The route is run by DFDS, usually with two or three sailings a day depending on the season; check the current timetable when you book, especially in winter. Arrive at Newhaven port in good time for check-in. On board you will find cabins, a restaurant and lounges, so the crossing is part of the holiday. In Dieppe the ferry docks in the outer harbour, a few minutes from the town centre. From there, follow the coast road west towards Pourville-sur-Mer: you are at the villa in about 10 minutes.
Night sailings and early arrivals
Some sailings arrive in Dieppe late in the evening or early in the morning. Our check-in is from 3 pm, so with an early arrival you can enjoy Dieppe’s Saturday market or a walk on the cliffs first. If you arrive late, let us know: we will tell you the best way to settle in.
Tolls, fuel and practical tips
- No tolls: from the Dieppe ferry to Pourville there are no motorways and no tolls at all. If you come via Calais, part of the A16 and A29 motorways is tolled; you can pay by card.
- Driving in France: drive on the right, carry your driving licence, vehicle documents and insurance, and check the current French requirements for UK cars before you travel.
- Foot passengers: you can also cross on foot and take a taxi from the Dieppe terminal, but a car is much more practical for exploring the coast.
- Arrival: you can arrive from 3 pm. Check-in is self-service and we send you all the information beforehand.
- Parking: there is private parking for 3 cars on the property at the villa.
By train?
It is possible but slower. From London you take the Eurostar to Paris, then a train to Rouen and on to Dieppe station. From the station Pourville is about 5 km; a taxi takes around ten minutes. On site, a car is useful for trips along the coast.
A seaside weekend in Normandy
Because the ferry lands you right next to us, even a long weekend is worthwhile. Take Friday’s crossing and you are at Dieppe’s market on Saturday morning. Read also what to do in Dieppe and our guide to the Alabaster Coast.
Our holiday home by the sea
Le Carré Vue Mer is an architect-designed villa with a sea view in Pourville-sur-Mer, for 2 to 6 guests, 300 m from the beach. You always have the house entirely to yourselves. See the villa and the prices.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe?
About 4 hours. The ferry docks in Dieppe harbour, about 10 minutes by car from Pourville-sur-Mer.
How many ferries a day run between Newhaven and Dieppe?
Usually two or three sailings a day, depending on the season. Check the current timetable with the ferry operator when you book.
Can I take my car on the Newhaven–Dieppe ferry?
Yes, the ferry carries cars, and foot passengers can travel too. With a car you can explore the Alabaster Coast easily, and our villa has private parking for 3 cars.
Is Newhaven–Dieppe better than Dover–Calais for Normandy?
For the Dieppe area, yes: you land 10 minutes from Pourville instead of driving almost 3 hours from Calais. Dover–Calais is shorter at sea but longer on the road.