The Great Escape: A Guide to Travel Time between Birmingham and Plymouth

Whether you are planning a road trip across the country or just a short getaway, traveling from Birmingham to Plymouth makes for an exciting journey. With stunning sceneries along the way, finding the best route can be a little overwhelming. This guide will take you through different options, distances, and estimated driving times to help you plan your journey.

Route 1: M5 Motorway

The M5 motorway stretches for 145 miles, connecting Birmingham to Plymouth. It is a direct route that is popular among travelers who want to get to their destination quickly. For a comfortable one-way drive, you should expect to spend around 2 hours and 30 minutes on the road.

Route 2: A38

The A38 route also connects Birmingham and Plymouth and is a more scenic route passing through the Cotswolds. It covers a total distance of 210 miles and takes approximately 4 hours to traverse. It offers breathtaking views of farmlands, hills, and rolling plains of grass.

Route 3: A417 and A419

Route three involves taking a combination of the A417 and A419 should expect to spend around 231 miles to complete the journey. The route, known for its picturesque scenery, will take you through Gloucestershire, where you can take a detour to explore the Cotswolds. This drive can take between 4 to 5 hours, including stopovers.

Route 4: A49 and A47

The A49 and A47 route combination covers 238 miles and passes through the stunning Welsh borderland. This route offers a chance to stop and explore notable cities like Hereford, Ross-on-Wye, and Leominster before crossing the English Channel. An estimated of between 4 and 5 hours of driving time should be budgeted for this route.

Route 5: A483 and A40

Route five is a combination of the A483 and A40 and is slightly longer than the other routes, covering a distance of up to 250 miles. It takes travelers through quaint towns such as Llandovery, Brecon, and Abergavenny. The route is known for stunning mountain sceneries and rural views of Wales. It might require a stop to explore the locations along the way, with an estimated drive time of 5 hours.

Where To Stop

Driving from Birmingham to Plymouth affords one the privilege of exploring other notable cities along the way. Should you take the M5, places like Bristol, Gloucester, and Exeter offer some great stopovers for fuel, rest, and fresh air. Heading on the A38, you could take a break in Birmingham, Cheltenham, or Taunton. If you opt for the A483 and A40, Llandovery, Brecon, and Builth Wells are great places to make a stopover.

Final Thoughts

The driving experience between Birmingham and Plymouth is an adventure that everyone will want to undertake again and again. Whether you prefer a fast-paced drive or a more scenic one, there's a route for everyone with plenty of exciting places to stop and explore. Be sure to take breaks along the way and enjoy the unique locations along the way.