How to Ask for & Give Directions in English

Useful English Phrases for Asking for & Giving Directions.

You will find these English expressions useful if you are lost or want to get to a particular place or give directions to others.

ASKING FOR and GIVING DIRECTIONS in English – Video

Asking for directions

• How can I get to …?
• Where is the …?
• How far is the … from the …?
• Is there a … around here?
• Could you tell me how to get to …?
• How do I find …?
• Pardon me, I’m lost. how do I get to …?
• Which is the best way to …?
• Could you direct me to …?
• Which way do I go to get to …?
• What’s the best way to …?
• Excuse me, do you know where the … is?
• Is this the right way for …?

…

Giving directions

• Go straight ahead.
• Turn back./Go back.
• Turn left/right.
• Go along …
• Cross …
• Take the first/second road on the left/right.
• It’s on the left/right.
• Go past.
• The easiest way is to …
• The best way is to …
• It’s on the corner
• It’s in the middle of the block.

…

Examples

1. A: Excuse me sir. Is there a bank around here?

    B: Yes, there is one right across the street next to Library.

2. A: Can you give me directions to the petrol station?

    B: Of course I will, just follow this road until you come to the main road. Turn right and then continue for about 100 metres. You will see the petrol station on the left.

3. A: Is there a bank near here?

    B: Yes, there is one in Orange Street. Orange Street is the third road on your right.

4. A: Excuse me, where is the School?

    B: It is across from the police office.

5. A: Excuse me! Could you tell me where the nearest bank is, please?

    B: Walk two blocks and turn left at the bookstore. The bank will be across the street, next to the post office.

   A: Is it far from here?

   B: No, it’s just a ten-minute walk.

   A: Thank you very much.

   B: You’re welcome.