Asking for Directions in English: Finding the Train Station

Four lines for asking the way

You: Yes, please. How do I get to the train station?

The other person has asked Can I help? Start with Yes, please to accept. How do I get to…? asks for the route, so the next answer can give you steps to follow.

You: Two blocks, then left. Is it far from here?

They have just told you to go straight for two blocks, then turn left. Repeat those key steps before asking about the distance. Here, a block is the distance along a street between two intersections; it has no fixed length in metres.

Their next answer is About ten minutes on foot. You’ll see a big clock. Listen for on foot: the estimate is for walking, and the clock is a landmark to look for.

You: Got it. Should I cross the road first?

Got it acknowledges the answer. Should I…? checks what to do; first asks whether to cross before following the route they described. Understanding the turn does not necessarily tell you which side to start on.

You: Thank you so much for your help.

Once the route is clear, this is a warm way to finish. For your help names what you are thanking them for.

Now say it yourself

Cover the lines above and say these four ideas aloud: accept help and ask the way to the station / repeat two blocks, then left, and ask how far it is / confirm whether to cross first / thank the person for helping.

This conversation is free in Unscript. Practice your lines with the other person’s replies: open the asking for directions conversation.