A20 road (England)

The A20 is a major road in south-east England, connecting London with the port of Dover in Kent. It is a primary route and a significant artery for both passenger and freight traffic, linking the capital city with continental Europe via the Dover ferry and Channel Tunnel.

The road begins in Lewisham, south-east London, and traverses through areas such as Eltham, Sidcup, and Swanley, before entering Kent. In Kent, it passes through towns including Maidstone, Ashford, and Folkestone, finally terminating in Dover.

Historically, the A20 follows the general route of the Roman road Watling Street. While much of the modern A20 has been upgraded to dual carriageway, some sections remain single carriageway, leading to potential bottlenecks. The road has seen numerous improvements and bypasses constructed over the years to alleviate congestion.

The road is an important transport link for the economy of Kent, facilitating trade and tourism. It also serves as a vital connection for local communities along its route, providing access to employment, services, and leisure activities.