Travelling from Birmingham to Burnley: Understanding the Driving Time

Looking for a road trip from Birmingham to Burnley? Not sure how long it will take? You are not alone. This journey spans across 99.1 km and usually takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. But wait, don't put the pedal to the metal just yet. There are a few things you need to know!

Fastest and Slowest Routes

Before you embark on the journey, it's crucial to understand the routes. Generally, there are two prevalent routes - the M6 and the M65. The M6 route is the quickest and the most direct route. On the other hand, the M65 route offers picturesque views but is longer and slower. The distance between Birmingham and Burnley is shorter through the M6, about 72.4 km. However, the M65 covers around 100 km.

How Long Will It Take?

The travel time also varies based on the time of the day and traffic. If you're heading to Burnley during peak hours (8 am to 10 am), you'll face heavy traffic on both the M6 and M65 routes. You might end up travelling for around 2 hours. However, if you time your drive during off-peak hours, which are usually between 11 am to 3 pm, you'll have a clear road ahead of you, and you'll complete the journey in an hour and fifteen minutes.

Traffic Flow on the M6 vs the M65

Peak hours might be challenging even for experienced drivers. If you prefer to take the M6, you'll face busy traffic around the J19-J21 section. This stretch usually takes around 45 minutes to clear up during peak hours. On the other hand, the M65 is typically less affected by traffic. However, if you're travelling during peak hours, you should expect heavy traffic around the J8-J10 section.

Road Condition and Safety

Both routes offer excellent road conditions and safety parameters. However, if you're taking the M65, look out for junction 10. This junction is isolated and has limited petrol stations or eating places. Ensure you have a full tank and carry sufficient snacks and drinks.

Final Thoughts

Travelling from Birmingham to Burnley is a fun and adventurous road trip. Keep in mind the best routes and the peak traffic hours, and you're good to go. Our recommendation? Take the M6 during off-peak hours to save time and reach Burnley earlier. Enjoy the journey and drive safe!