The Cost of a Road Trip from Derbyshire Dales to South Staffordshire Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip can be exciting, especially in regions rich with natural beauty like Derbyshire Dales and South Staffordshire. As you map out your journey, it’s crucial to consider not only the distance and route but also the cost associated with your travel, particularly gas prices. This article examines the various routes available, their distances, estimated travel times, and gas costs based on current prices.
Understanding the Basics: Distance and Fuel Costs
The distance from Derbyshire Dales to South Staffordshire varies depending on the route taken. With gas prices fluctuating, it is essential to calculate the total fuel cost for the trip. The current average gas price in England is approximately £1.50 per liter.
For an estimate, let's assume a car with an average fuel consumption of 10 liters per 100 kilometers. This average fuel economy makes for easier calculations as you plan your trip.
Route Options
1. A6 and A514 Route (Approx. 47 miles)
The first route involves taking the A6 south from Bakewell before connecting to the A514. This route is the most direct and covers around 47 miles, taking approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes in normal traffic.
Cost Calculation:
- Distance: 47 miles (approximately 76 kilometers)
- Fuel Consumption: 7.6 liters (based on 10 liters/100 km)
- Fuel Cost: 7.6 liters x £1.50 = £11.40
2. M1 and A5 Route (Approx. 54 miles)
Another option is the M1 and A5. This route begins by traveling south to the M1, which offers a faster speed limit but may also introduce toll costs. The total distance for this journey is approximately 54 miles (87 kilometers), and you can expect to spend around 1 hour and 10 minutes driving.
Cost Calculation:
- Distance: 54 miles (approximately 87 kilometers)
- Fuel Consumption: 8.7 liters (based on 10 liters/100 km)
- Fuel Cost: 8.7 liters x £1.50 = £13.05
3. A515 and A461 Scenic Route (Approx. 52 miles)
For travelers seeking a more scenic route, the A515 and A461 provides beautiful views of the countryside. This path is about 52 miles (approximately 84 kilometers) and takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Cost Calculation:
- Distance: 52 miles (approximately 84 kilometers)
- Fuel Consumption: 8.4 liters (based on 10 liters/100 km)
- Fuel Cost: 8.4 liters x £1.50 = £12.60
4. A5 and A449 Route (Approx. 56 miles)
Another highway option, the A5 and A449 route, stretches approximately 56 miles (about 90 kilometers) and offers straightforward navigation, taking around 1 hour and 25 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Cost Calculation:
- Distance: 56 miles (approximately 90 kilometers)
- Fuel Consumption: 9.0 liters (based on 10 liters/100 km)
- Fuel Cost: 9.0 liters x £1.50 = £13.50
Summary of Costs and Distances
| Route | Distance (miles) | Cost (£) |
|---|---|---|
| A6 and A514 | 47 | £11.40 |
| M1 and A5 | 54 | £13.05 |
| A515 and A461 (Scenic) | 52 | £12.60 |
| A5 and A449 | 56 | £13.50 |
Recommendation: The Best Route
After analyzing the different routes based on distance and fuel costs, the A6 and A514 route stands out as the most economical choice. Not only does it offer the shortest travel distance at 47 miles, but it also provides a total fuel cost of only £11.40. Additionally, this route allows travelers to enjoy some of the picturesque landscapes the English countryside has to offer and avoids the potential stress of heavy motorway traffic.
Conclusion
The drive from Derbyshire Dales to South Staffordshire is both a practical and scenic journey, taking roughly one and a half hours for the recommended route via the A6 and A514. This trip, at a cost of approximately £11.40 for fuel, allows you to appreciate the essence of the English countryside while keeping your travel budget in check. Whether you're visiting for leisure or business, this route maintains an excellent balance between efficiency and enjoyment.