The Cost of a Trip Between Bromsgrove and Lichfield: Navigating Gas Prices in England
When planning a road trip, there are several key factors to consider: the distance, the time it will take, and of course, the cost. You want to make sure you're getting the most bang for your buck, especially when it comes to gasoline prices. In this article, we'll explore the different routes you can take between Bromsgrove and Lichfield, highlighting the cost and distance of each one.
Possible Routes
First, let's take a look at the most direct route between Bromsgrove and Lichfield. According to Google Maps, the A38 is the fastest route, taking approximately 25 minutes to travel the 14.5-mile distance. However, this route includes tolls on the M6 Toll road. As of 2021, the toll for a car is £6.60 during peak hours, and £5.60 during off-peak hours. So, if you choose this route, expect to pay anywhere from £5.60 to £6.60 solely for tolls.
The next possible route is to take the M42 and then the M6. This route is slightly longer, totaling 27.2 miles, but it doesn't include any tolls. According to Google Maps, it takes approximately 30 minutes to travel this route.
Lastly, another alternative route is to take the A38 and then the A461 through Dudley, before connecting back onto the A38 towards Lichfield. This route is longer, totaling 28.2 miles and taking approximately 41 minutes to travel. However, this route does offer some scenic views and allows travelers to take a slight detour to visit the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley.
Gas Prices
When it comes to gas prices, there are a few things to keep in mind. As of August 2021, the average price of gasoline in the United Kingdom is around £1.28 per liter. This equates to approximately £4.84 per gallon. Additionally, fuel prices can fluctuate greatly depending on the area you're in, as well as the time of day.
To estimate the cost of gas for each route, we'll assume a car that gets 25 miles per gallon and a full tank of 12 gallons. This means the car can travel approximately 300 miles on one tank of gas. Keep in mind that these are rough estimates and the actual cost of gas will depend on factors such as the size of your vehicle and the current price of gas in the area.
Route Cost Breakdown
Let's take a look at the cost breakdown for each route, based on 2021 gas prices and assuming a 12-gallon tank:
A38 with M6 Toll
- Distance: 14.5 miles
- Time: 25 minutes
- Gas cost: £8.41
- Toll cost: £5.60 to £6.60 (one way)
Total cost: £14.01 to £15.01
M42 and M6
- Distance: 27.2 miles
- Time: 30 minutes
- Gas cost: £15.84
Total cost: £15.84
A38 with A461
- Distance: 28.2 miles
- Time: 41 minutes
- Gas cost: £16.44
Total cost: £16.44
As you can see, the A38 with the M6 toll road is the most expensive option, due to the added toll fee. The M42 and M6 route is the shortest distance but also the least scenic and doesn't save much time compared to the A38 with A461. However, the A38 with A461 offers the longest distance and highest gas cost, but allows for some sightseeing opportunities.
Recommended Route
It's clear that the best route for cost-conscious travelers is the M42 and M6 route. Not only is it the shortest distance, but it doesn't include any tolls, saving you money in the long run. Additionally, it doesn't take significantly longer than the other routes.
Conclusion
Overall, there are a few key takeaways when it comes to planning a trip between Bromsgrove and Lichfield. First, it's important to consider all the possible routes and their associated costs, including gas prices and tolls. Second, the cheapest option may not always be the best option, especially if it takes significantly longer or lacks scenic views. Finally, it's always a good idea to factor in some extra time for unexpected delays or to enjoy any local sights along the way. By keeping these tips in mind, you can plan a cost-effective and enjoyable road trip between Bromsgrove and Lichfield.