Driving Cost from Dovercourt, England to Braintree, England

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip from Dovercourt to Braintree: Navigating Routes and Budgeting for Gas Prices

Traveling from Dovercourt to Braintree is a common journey for residents and visitors alike. The distance between these charming towns in Essex, England, stretches approximately 35 miles, mostly covering scenic countryside and historical sites. However, as fuel prices fluctuate, travelers must factor gas costs into their trip planning. This article will explore different routes from Dovercourt to Braintree, their associated costs based on current gas prices, and finally recommend the best option.

Current Gas Prices and Cost Calculation

Before diving into the routes, it’s essential to understand the current landscape of fuel prices in England. As of October 2023, the average cost of petrol stands at around £1.50 per liter. Given that many vehicles run on petrol, this price will serve as the benchmark for our calculations.

For an average vehicle that consumes about 50 miles per gallon (mpg), you need to convert miles driven to liters used. A gallon equals approximately 4.54 liters, translating to roughly 11.8p per mile.

To determine how much gas you will spend for the trip:

  • Total Distance: 35 miles
  • Cost per mile: Approximately £0.118
  • Total fuel cost (35 miles): 35 x 0.118 = £4.13

So, the fuel cost for a round trip from Dovercourt to Braintree will total about £8.26 when considering the return journey.

Primary Routes from Dovercourt to Braintree

Route 1: The A120

The A120 represents one of the most straightforward routes to take. Beginning from Dovercourt, you head south on the A133 and connect to the A120, which takes you directly into Braintree.

  • Distance: 35 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 50 minutes to 1 hour
  • Fuel Cost: £8.26 (round trip)

This route features smooth highways with little traffic, especially during off-peak hours. While you may encounter some roadworks along the way, they rarely hinder journey times. Moreover, this option offers enough rest areas to break up the trip, making it ideal for those traveling with children.

Route 2: The A137 and A120

The second option involves taking the A137 from Dovercourt to Colchester before connecting to the A120. This route is slightly longer, but it offers a more extensive view of the picturesque countryside.

  • Distance: 40 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
  • Fuel Cost: £9.47 (round trip)

This scenic route has its charm, although the added distance results in a higher gas expense. Additionally, travelers may experience slow down in certain parts of Colchester, particularly during rush hour.

Route 3: The A12

The A12 is another alternative, but this route diverges from the most direct path and loops around through Chelmsford. While it can provide an enjoyable drive through various landscapes, it significantly lengthens your journey.

  • Distance: 45 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
  • Fuel Cost: £10.70 (round trip)

While the A12 has well-maintained highways and scenic views, the cost and time associated with this route make it less appealing for those simply wanting to get from Dovercourt to Braintree efficiently.

Route 4: Public Transport Option

If you prefer to leave your car at home, taking public transport offers an alternative, albeit less convenient. By catching a train from Harwich International to Braintree through Colchester, you can ride in comfort without worrying about gas prices.

  • Distance: Essentially the same as driving
  • Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes (including waiting time)
  • Cost: Approximately £15 round trip (train fare)

Despite being a more sustainable option, public transport can also be costlier than driving, especially for larger families. Additionally, you will have to consider the increased travel time when planning your day.

Given the considerations above, the best route to take from Dovercourt to Braintree is the A120. This option provides the shortest travel time, most manageable fuel costs, and is likely to be the most stress-free driving experience.

The route also offers charming views as you travel through rural areas, providing a picturesque backdrop for your trip. While there may be occasional hold-ups due to roadwork, the overall experience remains pleasant with regular rest stops and easy navigability.

Conclusion

The journey from Dovercourt to Braintree can be both enjoyable and economical with careful route planning. Opting for the A120 route allows travelers to cover the distance in about 50 minutes while only spending around £8.26 on fuel for the round trip. This balance of time and cost makes for a manageable and pleasant excursion. Enjoy your trip and the beautiful sights along the way!