The Cost of Gas: A Trip from Carlisle to Swindon

Traveling from one city to another can involve a lot of planning, especially when it comes to transportation costs. When it comes to traveling from Carlisle to Swindon, there are several different options to consider. The most common are by car, coach or taking the train. Each option comes with their own set of costs and distances. In this article, we will take a closer look at the different routes available and how much it will cost to travel between Carlisle and Swindon.

The Car Route

One of the most popular ways to travel between Carlisle and Swindon is by car. This option allows for the most flexibility as well as the quickest route. The most popular route travels south along the M6 and M5. This route takes around 4 hours and covers 270 miles.

However, these roads are toll roads, and depending on the vehicle used, the cost can vary. The toll booths are strategically placed at various intervals and are also set up to charge you as per the category of vehicle you are driving. At the time of writing this article, toll rates for class 2 vehicles (which covers most cars and vans) ranges from £5.30 to £14.10 depending on the time and day of travel.

In addition to toll fees, there are also petrol costs to consider. On average, petrol prices in the UK are around £1.30 per liter. The average car mileage is about 30 miles per gallon, so it will cost around £37 in petrol for a return trip.

The Coach Route

Another option is to travel by coach. This can be a cheaper option for those who don't want to drive or own a car. National Express has several options that route from Carlisle to Swindon including transfers at different locations.

One option is to catch a direct coach which takes around 9 hours and 35 minutes and costs around £33. This route takes passengers through Birmingham and leaves from Carlisle Bus Station. Another option is to take a coach to London first and then take another coach from London to Swindon. This route saves time as it is just over 6 hours and 20 minutes and costs the same.

The Train Route

The final option is traveling from Carlisle to Swindon by train. This option is most commonly used for people going on business trips or preferring public transport. Typically, travelling by train is more expensive than the other two options but involves less hassle. This route involves a train change at least once. The trip from Carlisle to Swindon changes trains at Birmingham New Street station. The trip takes 4 hours and 5 minutes and costs around £57.70. This price is for a single ticket and can be reduced if the journey is booked in advance.

Best Route

Each option has its pros and cons, but ultimately it comes down to the travelers' preferences. If it's a long distance, then definitely a car trip is recommended given the comfort of having your own car. This will allow you to take breaks whenever necessary and have the flexibility of your own schedule. The coach route is for those with a tight budget who prefer not to drive. The train route is fast, comfortable and ideal for business travelers.

Conclusion

There are many different ways to travel between Carlisle and Swindon, each with their own costs, times, and advantages. Ultimately, it's up to the individual or group to decide which option to take. However, taking a personal car seems to offer the most flexibility and comfort. With an estimation of around £50 for toll fees and petrol costs, and a distance of 270 miles to cover, travelers are advised to plan their trip in advance, so no extra charges are incurred.