Driving Cost from Dorchester, England to Borth, Wales

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Road Trip from Dorchester to Borth: A Guide Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Dorchester, England, to Borth, Wales, offers an exciting opportunity to explore some of the most scenic routes in the UK. However, before embarking on this journey, it's essential to consider the cost of travel, mainly influenced by current gas prices, and the various routes you can take. This article breaks down the different routes, their distances, estimated costs, and concludes with a recommendation for the best path to take.

Understanding the Distance and Routes

The distance from Dorchester to Borth varies based on the route taken. Travelers can generally choose between three primary routes: the A35, the A40, and the A487.

Route 1: Via A35 and A40

Distance: Approximately 180 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 4 hours 30 minutes

This route primarily follows the A35 before merging onto the A40. It's a direct route that will take you through charming villages and some captivating landscapes.

  1. Start your journey by heading north on the A35 towards Bridport.
  2. Continue along the A35 until you reach the A37, where you’ll take a right towards Yeovil.
  3. Merge onto the A40 near Ross-on-Wye, eventually leading you towards Wales.

This route offers a blend of coastal views and countryside charm, making it a popular choice for many travelers.

Route 2: Via A303 and A487

Distance: Approximately 200 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 5 hours

The second route takes you slightly off the beaten path, opting for the A303. This road stretches across the southern region of England and leads to beautiful scenery.

  1. Begin on the A35 before turning onto the A303 towards Andover.
  2. Continue on the A303 before merging onto the A487 once you approach Mid-Wales.

Although this route is longer, it tends to have less traffic congestion, especially during peak travel times. The extra distance also means more time for sightseeing.

Route 3: Via A38 and A487

Distance: Approximately 190 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 5 hours

This route combines scenic drives with ample opportunities to stop and explore.

  1. Start on the A35 towards Poole and then head towards the A38 through Exeter.
  2. Follow the A38 until you reach the A487, which leads you into Wales.

Although this journey is longer than the direct A35 and A40 route, the landscapes along the way make it worthwhile.

Estimating Fuel Costs

To determine the overall cost of your trip, you need to consider current gas prices and your vehicle's efficiency. As of October 2023, fuel prices hover around £1.62 per litre. The fuel consumption of your car will significantly impact your travel expenses.

Calculating Fuel Consumption

Let’s assume the following fuel efficiencies for an average vehicle:

  • Small Vehicle: 40 miles per gallon
  • Medium Vehicle: 30 miles per gallon
  • Large Vehicle: 25 miles per gallon

Route 1: Via A35 and A40

  1. Small Vehicle:

    • Fuel Needed: 180 miles ÷ 40 mpg = 4.5 gallons
    • Cost: 4.5 gallons x £1.62 per litre = £36.40 (approximately)

  2. Medium Vehicle:

    • Fuel Needed: 180 miles ÷ 30 mpg = 6 gallons
    • Cost: 6 gallons x £1.62 per litre = £48.60 (approximately)

  3. Large Vehicle:

    • Fuel Needed: 180 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 7.2 gallons
    • Cost: 7.2 gallons x £1.62 per litre = £56.56 (approximately)

Route 2: Via A303 and A487

  1. Small Vehicle:

    • Fuel Needed: 200 miles ÷ 40 mpg = 5 gallons
    • Cost: 5 gallons x £1.62 per litre = £39.75 (approximately)

  2. Medium Vehicle:

    • Fuel Needed: 200 miles ÷ 30 mpg = 6.67 gallons
    • Cost: 6.67 gallons x £1.62 per litre = £65.00 (approximately)

  3. Large Vehicle:

    • Fuel Needed: 200 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 8 gallons
    • Cost: 8 gallons x £1.62 per litre = £65.08 (approximately)

Route 3: Via A38 and A487

  1. Small Vehicle:

    • Fuel Needed: 190 miles ÷ 40 mpg = 4.75 gallons
    • Cost: 4.75 gallons x £1.62 per litre = £48.22 (approximately)

  2. Medium Vehicle:

    • Fuel Needed: 190 miles ÷ 30 mpg = 6.33 gallons
    • Cost: 6.33 gallons x £1.62 per litre = £48.68 (approximately)

  3. Large Vehicle:

    • Fuel Needed: 190 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 7.6 gallons
    • Cost: 7.6 gallons x £1.62 per litre = £63.75 (approximately)

Recommendation for the Best Route

After considering distance, travel time, and fuel costs, the A35 and A40 route proves to be the best option for this trip. It is the shortest in terms of distance and offers a reasonable balance between fuel expenditure and driving duration.

While the other routes provide unique sights and less congestion, they may stretch both your time on the road and your wallet. If you have extra time to spare, you could explore the scenic A303, but for a quicker and more cost-effective journey, the A35 and A40 is the recommended route.

Conclusion

Taking a road trip from Dorchester to Borth provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the beauty of the English countryside and the Welsh coast. The recommended route, via the A35 and A40, covers approximately 180 miles and usually takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Given current gas prices, the estimated fuel cost for a small vehicle would roughly be around £36.40, making it an affordable option for travelers. Whether you choose to take this route or explore the others, you’re sure to enjoy the journey and the destination.