A road trip from Birmingham to Guildford - Are we there yet?

The UK is blessed with some of the most incredible roadways that offer stunning natural sceneries, quaint towns, and memorable experiences. One such trip that's worth taking time out for is a road trip from Birmingham to Guildford via different routes that showcase some of the best England has to offer.

The A roads route

One of the most direct routes from Birmingham to Guildford is via the A roads. Covering a distance of 129 miles, the route takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete, depending on traffic. The route starts by merging onto the M6 and eventually onto the A34, a dual-carriageway that takes you south-west. Along the way, motorists can take a break in Oxford, visit museums and galleries before continuing toward Guildford through the A43, M40, and M25 roads.

The scenic route via the Cotswolds

A more relaxed and scenic route starts in Birmingham, heading towards M42, and then joining the A435. Drivers can continue southwards through Worcester using the A44 which runs alongside the River Severn. The most scenic part of this route is through the quaint villages and rolling hills of the Cotswolds, an area of outstanding natural beauty. The route is approximately 147 miles and can take approximately three and a half hours to complete, depending on traffic.

The coastal route via Brighton

If you're not in a hurry, consider taking the coastal route via Brighton. Begin by joining the M5 in Birmingham and continue to Bristol. A perfect spot to take a break is the beautiful coastal town of Weston-super-Mare before carrying on southwards to Bridgewater, Taunton, and Exeter. From Exeter, join the A303 towards Liss and then join the A3 towards Guildford. This route is jam-packed with interesting sights and attractions, including the stunning Jurassic Coastline, and it covers a distance of approximately 248 miles and takes around 5 hours to complete.

The driving time: approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes

Whether you use the A roads, take the scenic route via the Cotswolds or the coastal route through Brighton, driving is unquestionably the best way to experience the beautiful scenery that England offers. On average, it takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes to drive from Birmingham to Guildford via the A34 road.

Best spots to stop along the way

If you're seeking an adventure, taking the road less traveled is the way to go. One of our favorite stops on the A roads route is the stunning city of Oxford, where you can visit Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology, Pitt Rivers Museum, and the University of Oxford Botanic Garden. If you opt for the scenic route via the Cotswolds, make sure to stop in Bourton-on-the-Water village, a lovely spot in the heart of England's countryside.

Finally, along the coastal route through Brighton, don't miss a chance to sample fresh seafood while soaking up the sun and sea breeze in one of the town's many beaches.

Indeed, there's no better way to explore England than a classic road trip. By choosing the A34, Cotswolds, or Brighton routes, you're guaranteed an adventurous experience topped up with beautiful countryside sceneries, quaint towns, and stunning views.