Budgeting Your Trip: The Cost of Traveling from Durham to Hinckley and Bosworth Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip from Durham, England, to Hinckley and Bosworth can be both exciting and daunting, especially when considering the cost involved. With current gas prices fluctuating around £1.50 per litre, travelers need to calculate expenses carefully to ensure an enjoyable journey without breaking the bank. This article will outline different routes, their respective distances, fuel costs, and recommend the best overall option for you.
Understanding the Journey
Durham, known for its stunning cathedral and rich history, is approximately 175 miles north of Hinckley and Bosworth, a rural district in Leicestershire. The trip presents a mix of beautiful landscapes and occasional bustling town life. The driving route takes you through various regions, and depending on traffic conditions, it can typically take around 3 to 4 hours.
Route Options
Route 1: The A1(M) and M1 Motorways
- Distance: Approximately 180 miles
- Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Cost of Fuel:
The A1(M) and M1 is the most straightforward route, taking you through some key towns and cities. Starting from Durham, you'll head south on the A1(M) and then merge onto the M1 motorway towards Leicester. This route has clear signage and is well-maintained, making for a smooth journey.
To calculate fuel costs on this route, let’s assume your vehicle has a fuel efficiency of 40 miles per gallon (mpg). Given the current gas price of £1.50 per litre, let's do the math:
- Convert miles to gallons:
- 180 miles / 40 mpg = 4.5 gallons
- Convert gallons to litres:
- 4.5 gallons x 4.54609 (litres in a gallon) = 20.5 litres
- Multiply by current gas price:
- 20.5 litres x £1.50 = £30.75
So, the total fuel cost for this route would be approximately £30.75.
Route 2: A66 to A1(M) and M1
- Distance: Approximately 190 miles
- Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours
- Cost of Fuel:
This route takes a detour via the A66, providing a scenic drive through North Yorkshire before merging onto the A1(M). While it may seem longer, the beautiful views of the Yorkshire countryside and the North Pennines make it worth considering if you have extra time.
The calculations for this route are as follows:
- Miles per gallon: 180 miles / 40 mpg = 4.75 gallons
- Convert gallons to litres: 4.75 gallons x 4.54609 = 21.5 litres
- Total fuel cost:
- 21.5 litres x £1.50 = £32.25
Hence, you should anticipate a total fuel cost of approximately £32.25 for this route.
Route 3: A1(M) and A14
- Distance: Approximately 200 miles
- Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Cost of Fuel:
For those who prefer less motorway traffic, opting for the A1(M) before switching to the A14 might be appealing. This route moves east before swinging southwards toward Hinckley and Bosworth.
The calculations for fuel cost on this option are:
- Miles per gallon: 200 miles / 40 mpg = 5 gallons
- Convert gallons to litres: 5 gallons x 4.54609 = 22.7 litres
- Total fuel cost:
- 22.7 litres x £1.50 = £34.05
Thus, the expected total fuel expenditure for this route is about £34.05.
Summary of Costs
Here’s a quick summary of the fuel costs based on the routes discussed:
- Route 1 (A1(M) and M1): £30.75 (180 miles)
- Route 2 (A66 to A1(M) and M1): £32.25 (190 miles)
- Route 3 (A1(M) and A14): £34.05 (200 miles)
Recommended Route
The A1(M) and M1 (Route 1) is the recommended route for this trip. Although it is slightly shorter in distance, it also takes advantage of smooth motorway driving, allowing for better speeds and less stress. It offers a balance of efficiency and cost-effectiveness with an estimated fuel cost of £30.75.
This route brings travelers through diverse landscapes and picturesque views while ensuring a manageable driving experience. With well-marked exits and service stations available, it’s easy to find refreshment during the trip.
Conclusion
Traveling from Durham to Hinckley and Bosworth offers both adventure and opportunity to explore some of England’s lovely countryside. Following Route 1 via the A1(M) and M1 allows for a straightforward journey, covering 180 miles in approximately three and a half hours at a fuel cost of around £30.75. Whether you're visiting for leisure or other pursuits, this beautiful trip enables you to capture the essence of both areas effortlessly. Safe travels!