France is the country closest to London. The city of Calais, in northern France, is approximately 33 kilometers (20.5 miles) away across the English Channel and represents the closest point. While Ireland, Belgium, and the Netherlands are also neighboring countries, they are further away from London than France.
Here's a breakdown of the proximity:
- France (Calais): ~33 kilometers (20.5 miles)
- Other countries, such as Ireland, Belgium, and the Netherlands, are further away.
Therefore, based on proximity, France is the closest country to London.