Driving from Bristol to Brighton: How long does it take?

Are you planning a road trip from Bristol to Brighton? The route might be shorter than you think, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind when it comes to driving times. Here's what you need to know:

The fastest and slowest routes

There are a few different routes you can take when driving from Bristol to Brighton, but the A303 is probably the most popular. This route takes you through some lovely countryside, but it can get quite busy at peak times. Expect to spend around 3 hours on the road if you take this route.

If you're looking for a faster option, you might want to consider taking the M4 and then the M23. This route is much more direct, but it does bypass some picturesque towns and villages along the way. You should be able to cover the distance in around 2 hours and 40 minutes if the traffic is light.

The distance and time it takes

The distance from Bristol to Brighton is around 150 miles (240 km) when you take the A303. If you take the M4/M23 route, the distance drops to around 140 miles (225 km).

Driving times will vary depending on traffic patterns. If you hit peak traffic on the A303, you could be looking at around 4 hours on the road. On the other hand, if you travel on a weekday evening or a weekend, you could shave at least half an hour off your journey time.

Peak vs low traffic times

As mentioned, peak traffic times can have a big impact on your journey time. If you're driving on the A303, you'll want to avoid rush hour (between 7am and 9am, and 4pm and 6pm on weekdays) and weekends. Low traffic times are generally in the middle of the day, on weekdays.

On the M4/M23 route, you might still experience some congestion during peak traffic times, but it should be less severe than on the A303. You'll still want to avoid rush hour if possible, though.

Conclusion

Driving from Bristol to Brighton doesn't have to be a stressful experience if you plan your journey carefully. The A303 is a scenic but potentially slow option, while the M4/M23 route is faster but less picturesque. Make sure you consider traffic patterns and the time of day when planning your journey, and you'll be in Brighton before you know it!