The Cost of a Trip from Derbyshire Dales to Cambridge: A Gas Price Perspective
Planning a scenic road trip through England from the charming Derbyshire Dales to the historic city of Cambridge involves considering various factors, one of the most significant of which is cost. Specifically, gas prices can have a considerable impact on your budget. With current fuel prices fluctuating across the UK, it’s pivotal to understand the distances and costs associated with different routes. This article will delve into the most common routes from Derbyshire Dales to Cambridge, along with their distances, estimated travel times, and the cost of gas for each journey.
Understanding Fuel Costs
Before embarking on any journey, understanding the current fuel prices helps in estimating the cost of travel. As of October 2023, the average price for petrol in the UK hovers around £1.60 per litre. Diesel prices may vary but are generally higher. For this trip, we will primarily focus on petrol costs, which are applicable for most vehicles.
To estimate your travel expenses, you can use the following formula:
- Cost = Distance (miles) / Fuel Efficiency (miles per gallon) * Price per litre / 4.546 (litres per gallon)
Assuming an average fuel efficiency of 35 miles per gallon for a petrol car, let’s evaluate potential routes from Derbyshire Dales to Cambridge.
Route Options
Route 1: The A52 and A14 Route
This route takes you through some beautiful English countryside and is one of the most direct ways to reach Cambridge from Derbyshire Dales.
Distance: Approximately 120 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Cost Calculation:
- Cost = 120 miles / 35 mpg * £1.60 / 4.546
- Cost = 120 / 35 * 0.352 = £1.21 per mile
- Total Cost = £1.21 * 120 = £145.75
Route 2: The A46 Route
Taking the A46, this route provides an alternate path that can showcase more of the countryside and historical sites.
Distance: Approximately 135 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours and 45 minutes
Cost Calculation:
- Cost = 135 miles / 35 mpg * £1.60 / 4.546
- Cost = 135 / 35 * 0.352 = £1.35 per mile
- Total Cost = £1.35 * 135 = £182.25
Route 3: The M1 and A14 Route
This route connects directly via the M1 motorway, which might be faster but could also be subject to delays due to heavy traffic, especially during peak hours.
Distance: Approximately 140 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours and 35 minutes
Cost Calculation:
- Cost = 140 miles / 35 mpg * £1.60 / 4.546
- Cost = 140 / 35 * 0.352 = £1.40 per mile
- Total Cost = £1.40 * 140 = £196.00
Route 4: The A606 Route
This route may take you through picturesque villages and allows for more sightseeing stops along the way.
Distance: Approximately 125 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Cost Calculation:
- Cost = 125 miles / 35 mpg * £1.60 / 4.546
- Cost = 125 / 35 * 0.352 = £1.26 per mile
- Total Cost = £1.26 * 125 = £157.50
Comparison of Routes
| Route | Distance (miles) | Estimated Time | Cost (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
| A52 and A14 Route | 120 | 2 hours 30 mins | 145.75 |
| A46 Route | 135 | 2 hours 45 mins | 182.25 |
| M1 and A14 Route | 140 | 2 hours 35 mins | 196.00 |
| A606 Route | 125 | 2 hours 20 mins | 157.50 |
From the analysis, the most cost-effective route is the A52 and A14 route. Not only does it take slightly less time than the A46, but it also offers substantial savings in fuel expenses.
Recommended Route
Given the variations in distance, travel time, and fuel costs, the A52 and A14 route emerges as the best option for your trip from Derbyshire Dales to Cambridge. Its directness, reasonable fuel costs, and relatively shorter travel time make it an attractive choice. Moreover, the scenic views along the route can enhance the travel experience, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the English countryside.
Conclusion
Choosing to travel from Derbyshire Dales to Cambridge offers a delightful combination of scenic beauty and historical exploration. The A52 and A14 route stands out as the most practical and economical option, with a driving distance of approximately 120 miles, an estimated travel time of 2 hours and 30 minutes, and a total cost of about £145.75 in fuel. Embrace the journey and enjoy the experience of traversing through varied landscapes, all while keeping your expenses in check!