How Long Does It Take to Drive from Arun to Somerset West and Taunton?

If you're planning a road trip from Arun to Somerset West and Taunton in England, you might be wondering how long the drive would take. Well, it all depends on the route you take, the time of day, and the traffic patterns along the way. To help you plan your trip, we've put together a guide on the different routes and estimated driving times.

Fastest Route

The fastest route from Arun to Somerset West and Taunton is via the M23, M25, M3, and A303. This route covers a distance of about 160 miles and takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes to drive in good traffic conditions.

However, during peak hours, the estimated driving time can increase to around 3 hours and 10 minutes, so plan accordingly. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy on the M25, so you might want to avoid rush hour if possible. On the flip side, if you can time your trip for a quieter time of day, you might be able to shave off some time from the journey.

Scenic Route

If you have a bit more time and want to take a scenic route, consider heading west on the A27 towards Brighton, then taking the A259 coastal road towards Exeter. From there, you can take the M5 to Taunton. This route covers a distance of around 190 miles and takes about 4 hours and 15 minutes in good traffic conditions.

Driving along the coast can be a nice change of pace, and you'll get to see some beautiful scenery along the way. However, keep in mind that this route can get busy in the peak summer months, and you might encounter slower traffic in some areas.

Avoiding Congestion

If you want to avoid congestion as much as possible, you might want to consider taking the A34 towards Oxford, then the A420 towards Bristol, and finally the M5 towards Taunton. This route covers a distance of about 170 miles and takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes in good traffic conditions.

While this route is longer than the fastest route, it might be less busy at peak times, and you could avoid some of the congestion on the M25. Keep in mind that you might encounter slower-moving traffic in concentrated areas, so plan your journey accordingly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several ways to drive from Arun to Somerset West and Taunton, each with its pros and cons. If you want the fastest route, take the M23, M25, M3, and A303, but be prepared for congestion during peak hours. If you have more time and want a scenic drive, take the A259 coastal road. And if you want to avoid congestion as much as possible, take the A34, A420, and M5 route. With a bit of planning, you'll be able to choose the best route for your trip and enjoy a smooth journey.