Heading: The Time It Takes To Drive From Cardiff, Wales to Northampton, England

Planning on a road trip from Cardiff to Northampton? Every road trip needs some solid planning and research, whether it is about the route to take or the time it will take to reach the destination. In this blog, we will help you plan your Cardiff to Northampton journey, focusing on different routes, their distance, and driving time with peak traffic times and low traffic times.

The Routes: Fast and Slow

The distance from Cardiff to Northampton is approximately 129 miles, and there are two main routes you can take: the M4 and the M5. Taking the M4 route is the fastest option and takes around 2 hours and 12 minutes in normal traffic, while the longer but slower M5 route takes around 3 hours in normal traffic.

Option 1: M4 Route

The M4 route takes approximately 2 hours and 12 minutes to cover the 129-mile distance between Cardiff and Northampton. The best time to take this route is early in the morning before 8 am or late at night after 8 pm. This will help you avoid peak traffic hours and ensure a smooth ride with a clear road. If you travel during rush hour, it can take up to 4 hours.

Option 2: M5 Route

The M5 route, though 18 miles longer than the M4 route, takes around 3 hours to cover the distance between Cardiff and Northampton. The best time to take this route is also in the morning before 8 am or after 8 pm. Like the M4 route, the M5 route is congested during peak traffic hours, and travel can take up to 5 hours.

Distance and Driving Time

The M4 route, which is the fastest route, has a distance of approximately 129 miles and takes around 2 hours and 12 minutes in normal traffic. Meanwhile, the M5 route, which is slower, has a distance of approximately 147 miles and takes around 3 hours in normal traffic.

When traveling during peak traffic times, the M4 route can take up to 4 hours to cover the distance between Cardiff and Northampton, while the M5 route can take up to 5 hours. If you're looking for an efficient and quick trip, it is advisable to travel during off-peak hours.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the journey from Cardiff to Northampton can be long or short, depending on the route you choose and the time you travel. The M4 route is the shortest option and is generally quicker, taking around 2 hours and 12 minutes in normal traffic, while the M5 route is a longer and slower option, taking around 3 hours in the same conditions. Regardless of the route you choose, avoid peak traffic hours to save time and ensure a smooth ride. Happy travels!