The Cost of a Trip Between Canterbury and Maidstone, England

Traveling between Canterbury and Maidstone in England is a common commute for many people. The distance between the two cities is approximately 26 miles, making it a good choice for a day trip or a weekend getaway. But, before you start packing your bags and hitting the road, you need to know how much it will cost you to make the trip. Gas prices fluctuate constantly and knowing the cost of your trip can help you plan your budget accordingly.

In this article, we will explore the different possible routes from Canterbury to Maidstone and the cost and distance of each one. Based on these factors, we will recommend the best route to take.

Route 1: A2

The A2 is the most direct route from Canterbury to Maidstone, taking you through the scenic Kent countryside. The distance between the two cities is approximately 22 miles and will take around 30 minutes to complete depending on traffic.

The cost of fuel for this route will depend on the type of vehicle you are driving and the current fuel prices. If we assume an average fuel economy of 30 miles per gallon and an average petrol price of £1.30 per litre, the cost of the trip from Canterbury to Maidstone will be around £4.70 for a round trip.

Route 2: M2

Taking the M2 is a faster route, with an estimated travel time of around 25 minutes. However, this route is slightly longer, at approximately 24 miles.

The cost of fuel for this route is likely to be slightly higher, owing to the longer distance and the higher speeds reached on the motorway. Assuming the same fuel economy and price per litre, the cost of fuel for this route will be around £5.45 for a round trip.

Route 3: A28

If you prefer a more indirect route that takes you through some of Kent's charming towns and villages, the A28 is the perfect choice. The A28 runs parallel to the A2, but it winds through many of Kent's historic market towns, including Ashford and Tenterden.

The distance between Canterbury and Maidstone via the A28 is approximately 31 miles and takes around 40 minutes to complete. The extra distance means the cost of fuel will be higher, with a round trip costing around £6.75.

Route 4: Canterbury to Ashford, then Ashford to Maidstone

Another option is to break the journey into two stages, from Canterbury to Ashford, and then from Ashford to Maidstone. This route allows you to stop and visit some of the sites and attractions in Ashford and the surrounding areas such as the Ashford Designer Outlet. The distance from Canterbury to Ashford via the A28 is approximately 17 miles, and it takes around 25 minutes to complete. The distance from Ashford to Maidstone via the A20 is approximately 18 miles and takes around 25 minutes to complete.

The cost of fuel for this route will depend on the same factors as the previous routes. Assuming an average fuel economy of 30 miles per gallon and an average petrol price of £1.30 per litre, the cost of the trip from Canterbury to Ashford and then from Ashford to Maidstone will be around £7.85 for a round trip.

The Best Route

Based on the cost and distance of each route, the most cost-effective route is the A2. This route is the shortest and most direct and will save both time and fuel. However, if you have time to spare and want to explore some of Kent's beautiful towns, then the A28 might be a better choice.

Conclusion

Traveling from Canterbury to Maidstone can be done on a budget, depending on the route you choose and the type of vehicle you drive. By choosing the A2 route, you can complete the journey in around 30 minutes and spend around £4.70 on fuel for a round trip. Alternatively, if you are looking for a more scenic drive and have the time to spare, the A28 is a good option. Whichever route you choose, it's important to consider the cost of fuel and your budget when planning your trip.