Driving Cost from Duns, Scotland to Weymouth, England

A picture depicting a gas pump

Calculating the Cost of a Road Trip: Duns, Scotland to Weymouth, England Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Duns, Scotland, to Weymouth, England, offers an excellent opportunity to explore two beautiful regions of the United Kingdom. However, understanding the cost associated with such a journey—particularly in terms of fuel—can help you budget more effectively. In this article, we’ll analyze different routes, their respective distances, travel durations, and fuel costs based on current gas prices.

Understanding Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the average price for unleaded petrol in the UK is approximately £1.50 per litre. Diesel is slightly higher, around £1.60 per litre. To calculate fuel costs accurately, it's essential to know your vehicle's fuel efficiency, measured in miles per gallon (mpg) or litres per 100 kilometers (l/100 km). For example, let's assume an average fuel efficiency of 40 mpg for a petrol car and 30 mpg for a diesel car.

Route Options from Duns to Weymouth

Route 1: Via A68 and A1(M)

This route is one of the most common choices for road trippers. Here are the details:

  • Distance: Approximately 470 miles (756 km)
  • Estimated Travel Time: About 8 hours
  • Route: Duns → A68 → A1(M) → A303 → Weymouth

Fuel Cost Calculation

  1. Total gallons needed:
    • Total miles / mpg = 470 miles / 40 mpg = 11.75 gallons
  2. Litres needed:
    • 11.75 gallons * 4.546 = approximately 53.36 litres
  3. Total cost:
    • 53.36 litres * £1.50 = £80.04

Route 2: Via A1 and A31

This slightly longer route takes a scenic path with fewer motorways:

  • Distance: Approximately 485 miles (780 km)
  • Estimated Travel Time: Around 8 hours and 30 minutes
  • Route: Duns → A1 → A47 → A31 → Weymouth

Fuel Cost Calculation

  1. Total gallons needed:
    • Total miles / mpg = 485 miles / 40 mpg = 12.125 gallons
  2. Litres needed:
    • 12.125 gallons * 4.546 = approximately 55.10 litres
  3. Total cost:
    • 55.10 litres * £1.50 = £82.65

Route 3: Via A68 and M6

A more leisurely option that cuts across some beautiful countryside:

  • Distance: Approximately 500 miles (804 km)
  • Estimated Travel Time: Close to 9 hours
  • Route: Duns → A68 → A69 → M6 → A303 → Weymouth

Fuel Cost Calculation

  1. Total gallons needed:
    • Total miles / mpg = 500 miles / 40 mpg = 12.5 gallons
  2. Litres needed:
    • 12.5 gallons * 4.546 = approximately 56.63 litres
  3. Total cost:
    • 56.63 litres * £1.50 = £84.95

Route 4: Coastal Route via A1

While this route is less direct, it offers stunning views:

  • Distance: Approximately 510 miles (820 km)
  • Estimated Travel Time: About 9 hours and 30 minutes
  • Route: Duns → A1 → A16 → A35 → A354 → Weymouth

Fuel Cost Calculation

  1. Total gallons needed:
    • Total miles / mpg = 510 miles / 40 mpg = 12.75 gallons
  2. Litres needed:
    • 12.75 gallons * 4.546 = approximately 57.40 litres
  3. Total cost:
    • 57.40 litres * £1.50 = £86.10

Best Route Recommendation

After evaluating these four routes, Route 1—via A68 and A1(M)—stands out as the most efficient option. With a distance of approximately 470 miles, it boasts the shortest travel time of about 8 hours and offers a fuel cost of around £80.04. This route strikes the perfect balance between efficiency and enjoyment, making it ideal for those keen to get to Weymouth with minimal delays while still experiencing beautiful landscapes.

Additional Considerations

Aside from fuel costs, consider other expenses that may arise during the trip:

  1. Tolls and Charges: Some routes, especially those involving the motorway, might incur tolls.
  2. Food and Refreshments: Plan for meal breaks to stay refreshed on your journey.
  3. Accommodation: Depending on your travel plans, you may want to factor in the cost of overnight stays.

Conclusion

Embarking on a road trip from Duns to Weymouth can be an exciting adventure filled with breathtaking scenery. The recommended route via A68 and A1(M) covers approximately 470 miles and takes about 8 hours. With current gas prices, expect to spend around £80 on fuel. Preparing for the journey—factoring in costs like meals and potential overnight accommodations—will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable trip. Plan, pack snacks, and enjoy the drive!