Driving Time between Bristol, England and Durham, England

A picture depicting driving

How Long Does It Take To Drive From Bristol to Durham?

Are you planning a road trip from Bristol to Durham? Driving can be a great way to explore England's beautiful scenery and historic landmarks. However, before you hit the road, it's important to know how long the journey will take, especially if you are on a tight schedule. In this blog post, we will explore the fastest and slowest routes from Bristol to Durham and how long each one takes.

The Fastest Route from Bristol to Durham

The fastest route from Bristol to Durham is via the M5 and A1(M) motorways. The distance between the two cities is approximately 225 miles. According to Google Maps, the driving time is approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes at low traffic times and 4 hours and 30 minutes at peak traffic times.

If you leave Bristol early in the morning or late at night, you can avoid heavy traffic and reach Durham in just over three hours. However, if you are traveling during the rush hour, expect some delays on the motorway.

The Scenic Route from Bristol to Durham

If you are not in a hurry and want to enjoy the scenic route, you can take the A46 and A1 road. While this route adds some extra miles to your journey, it offers stunning views of the Cotswolds and the Yorkshire Dales.

The distance between Bristol and Durham via this route is about 250 miles. The driving time is approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes at low traffic times and 6 hours and 30 minutes at peak traffic times.

The Slowest Route from Bristol to Durham

The slowest route from Bristol to Durham is via the A38 and A50 road. This route takes you through many small towns and villages and is not recommended if you are in a hurry.

The distance between Bristol and Durham via this route is about 250 miles. The driving time is approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes at low traffic times and 7 hours and 30 minutes at peak traffic times.

Tips for a Smooth Road Trip

To make your road trip from Bristol to Durham hassle-free, here are some tips:

  • Plan your journey ahead of time and check the weather and traffic conditions before you leave.
  • Take regular breaks and stretch your legs to avoid back pain and fatigue.
  • Pack some snacks and water in case you get hungry or thirsty on the way.
  • Obey traffic laws, wear seatbelts, and avoid distractions such as texting or using your phone while driving.

Conclusion

There are several routes you can take from Bristol to Durham, depending on your preferences and travel time. The fastest route is via the M5 and A1(M) motorways, which takes about 3 hours and 40 minutes at low traffic times. The scenic route, which takes you through the Cotswolds and Yorkshire Dales, takes about 5 hours and 15 minutes. Finally, the slowest route via small towns and villages takes about 5 hours and 45 minutes.

No matter which route you choose, make sure to plan ahead, take regular breaks, and drive safely. Have a safe and enjoyable road trip!