Coastal Adventure: Driving From Bristol to St. Ives

If you're looking for a dreamy coastal getaway, you might want to consider visiting St. Ives, located on the southwestern tip of England. While there are several modes of transportation to get there, driving is arguably the most scenic and convenient way to do it. In this blog post, we'll take a look at the different routes you can take, the distance of each route, and the estimated time it takes to drive from Bristol to St. Ives.

Fastest Route

The quickest route from Bristol to St. Ives is via the M5 and A30, with a driving distance of approximately 158 miles. However, the trip can be a bit of a slog as it can take around 3.5 hours in good traffic conditions. If you're traveling during peak hours, you can expect this drive to take you closer to 4 hours. But if you start your journey early or later in the day, you might be able to do it more efficiently.

Slow and Scenic Route

If you've got time to spare and want to take in the breathtaking views of South Devon and Cornwall then the slower A38 and A39 route might be for you. While this route can take up to 6 hours of driving to reach St. Ives, it offers a spectacular journey through Dartmoor National Park and along the coast. It’s worth it for the views, but expect to do quite a bit of winding and stopping.

The Midway Route

Another option would be to take the A38 to Plymouth and then continue on the A374 and A30 through Liskeard and Truro. The total distance is around 167 miles and driving time is just under 4 hours. It's a great compromise if you want to take in some scenic detours, but also arrive in St. Ives before nightfall.

Consider Driving Outside Peak Hours

While you can't always avoid rush hour traffic or busy days on the road, you may be able to get a better time on the road by traveling outside peak hours. Consider starting early in the morning or, if you're a night owl, driving late at night. Both options can save you time on the road and help you avoid getting stuck in traffic.

Final Thoughts

No matter which route you take or what hour you decide to hit the road, driving from Bristol to St. Ives is an exciting adventure. With so many picturesque scenery along the way, the drive can be just as memorable as the destination. Just be sure to budget in enough time for enjoying the views, and make sure you have a route plan before you set off to make the best of your experience.