London to Brugge in Belgium
 

Can anyone recommend the most efficient way to travel to Brugge, Belgium from Russell Square area London on a Friday night 6pm. Is Eurostar the way to go via Calais, Lille then Brugge? Welcome any advice to shorten and simplify the journey.

I'd say Eurostar to Brussels, then change for a train to Bruges. Your Eurostar ticket to Brussels is valid for onward travel (same day) to any Belgian station.

Yes, Hanl is spot on. Get the Eurostar to Brussels then connect on a local train to Brugge. The train to Brugge takes about an hour. There are local buses to take you into the centre of Brugge but it's not that far to walk (maybe not a good idea at night if you don't know the area) or grab a taxi to your hotel.

Cost of getting to Brugge is included in the Eurostar ticket only if you travel the same day. I don't think you could overnight in Brussels then use the ticket the next morning.

Also, the earlier you book the Eurostar tickets the cheaper it will be. Friday is a popular day for travel so those tickets will go quickly.

Kay

Agree with the above. Eurostar direct to Brussels. Then transfer to train for Bruges. Transfer is very easy. When we've done it, the tracks were almost next to each other. Your ticket will likely have ABS (Any Belgian Station) stamped on it which, as mentioned, means your ticket is good on the Brussels - Bruges portion as well.

We did this last month. Connection to Brugge in Brussels seems to vary as to which track being used. Eurostar ticket good for 24 hours after leaving london to anywhere in Belgium