Driving Cost from Derbyshire Dales, England to East Cambridgeshire, England

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Cost Analysis of a Road Trip from Derbyshire Dales to East Cambridgeshire Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Derbyshire Dales to East Cambridgeshire can be an exhilarating journey filled with picturesque views and charming countryside. As you prepare for your trip, understanding the costs involved, especially fuel expenses based on current gas prices, becomes crucial. This article will explore different routing options, their costs, and recommend the best route for your journey.

Overview of Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the average price of petrol in the UK is approximately £1.56 per litre. For diesel, it averages around £1.60 per litre. Fuel prices fluctuate regularly, so it is advisable to check local prices before starting your trip. For this analysis, we'll assume a petrol vehicle with an average fuel consumption of 40 miles per gallon (mpg).

Distance and Routes Analysis

The journey from Derbyshire Dales to East Cambridgeshire spans approximately 150 miles, depending on the selected route. Below are several routing options, along with their respective distances, estimated costs, and driving times.

Route 1: A6 through Leicester

  • Distance: 157 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 3 hours
  • Cost: £35.14

Route Details:
Starting from Derbyshire Dales, you would head southeast on the A6, passing through small towns such as Matlock and Bakewell. After crossing the River Derwent, you continue along the A6, eventually reaching Leicester. From Leicester, you will pick up the A14 towards East Cambridgeshire.

Fuel Calculation:

  • Miles per gallon: 40 mpg
  • Total gallons required: 157 miles / 40 mpg = 3.93 gallons
  • Cost of petrol: 3.93 gallons * £1.56/litre (converting gallons to litres: 1 gallon = 4.54609 litres) = £35.14.

Route 2: A38 and A14 via Cambridge

  • Distance: 153 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
  • Cost: £34.55

Route Details:
This route takes you south on the A38 before transitioning onto the A14. You’ll pass through notable areas such as Bury St Edmunds and eventually make your way towards Cambridge before heading to East Cambridgeshire.

Fuel Calculation:

  • Total gallons required: 153 miles / 40 mpg = 3.83 gallons
  • Cost of petrol: 3.83 gallons * £1.56/litre = £34.55.

Route 3: M1 and A14 via Bedford

  • Distance: 162 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
  • Cost: £36.15

Route Details:
This route initially heads south on the M1 before veering off towards Bedford. From Bedford, you’ll join the A14 and proceed towards East Cambridgeshire. This route is slightly longer but provides a faster drive due to its motorways.

Fuel Calculation:

  • Total gallons required: 162 miles / 40 mpg = 4.05 gallons
  • Cost of petrol: 4.05 gallons * £1.56/litre = £36.15.

Route 4: A618 and A14 via Lincoln

  • Distance: 175 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 4 hours
  • Cost: £40.07

Route Details:
This alternative route takes you north initially on the A618 towards Lincoln, before following the A1 and then the A14. It’s the most scenic route but also the longest in terms of distance and cost.

Fuel Calculation:

  • Total gallons required: 175 miles / 40 mpg = 4.38 gallons
  • Cost of petrol: 4.38 gallons * £1.56/litre = £40.07.

After analyzing the routes, Route 2 (A38 and A14 via Cambridge) stands out as the best option for your trip from Derbyshire Dales to East Cambridgeshire. It balances distance, estimated driving time, and cost effectively.

With an estimated distance of 153 miles and a total fuel cost of £34.55, this routing offers both scenic views and efficiency, making your drive enjoyable without breaking the bank. The driving time is relatively short compared to the other options, allowing you to spend more time at your destination.

Additional Expenses to Consider

While fuel is the primary cost of your trip, it’s important to consider additional expenses that can arise:

  1. Tolls and Congestion Charges: Some routes may incur tolls, especially if you pass through city areas. Verify if your route incurs any congestion charges in cities like Cambridge.

  2. Food and Drink: Plan for meal breaks during your journey. Depending on your preferences, fast food options might be quicker while sit-down restaurants could offer a more fulfilling experience.

  3. Accommodations: If the trip feels too long for a single day, consider overnight accommodations in Cambridge to recharge before proceeding.

  4. Vehicle Maintenance: Ensure your vehicle is in good shape for the trip. Basic checks like oil levels, tire pressure, and brake function can prevent unwanted delays.

Conclusion

Traveling from Derbyshire Dales to East Cambridgeshire covers about 153 miles and takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes when taking the recommended route via the A38. With a fuel cost of £34.55, this trip combines affordability with scenic views to make it an enjoyable experience. Make sure to plan your stops for a smooth journey, and enjoy all that this beautiful English landscape has to offer along the way!