The Cost of a Trip from Antrim to Belfast: Exploring Route Options Based on Current Gas Prices

Introduction

Planning a trip from Antrim to Belfast in Northern Ireland? While there are multiple routes to choose from, it is essential to consider the cost and distance of each option. With gas prices as a key factor, let's explore the various routes, assess their expenses, and recommend the most economical choice.

Route Options

There are three main routes to travel between Antrim and Belfast. Each offers its unique benefits, including scenic views and potential time savings. However, our focus in this article will be to analyze their costs based on current gas prices.

Route 1: A6/M2 Motorway

The A6/M2 motorway is the most direct and commonly used route connecting Antrim and Belfast. This route spans approximately 24 miles (38 kilometers) and takes around 30 minutes on average.

Considering current gas prices, a standard passenger car with an average fuel efficiency of 30 miles per gallon (mpg) will consume about 0.8 gallons of fuel for this journey. With gas prices averaging around £1.25 per litre in Northern Ireland, the cost of fuel for this route would be approximately £4.50.

Route 2: A26

The A26 is an alternative route between Antrim and Belfast. While it is slightly longer, spanning approximately 27 miles (43 kilometers), it offers a scenic drive through the counties of Antrim and Down. The average travel time on this route is around 35 minutes.

Considering the same fuel efficiency of 30 mpg, this route would require approximately 0.9 gallons of fuel. Therefore, the estimated cost of fuel for this journey would be around £5.00.

Route 3: A6/B18

The A6/B18, although less common, is another viable route to consider. This route adds some distance, spanning approximately 28 miles (45 kilometers), but may provide less traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. The average travel time on this route is also around 35 minutes.

Following the same fuel efficiency calculations, this route would require approximately 0.9 gallons of fuel. Hence, the estimated cost of fuel for this journey would be approximately £5.00.

Recommendation

Considering both cost and distance, Route 1, the A6/M2 motorway, appears to be the most economical route based on current gas prices. While it is slightly shorter than Routes 2 and 3, the time difference is negligible. Additionally, the A6/M2 motorway is often less congested than other routes, making it a more efficient choice.

By opting for this route, travelers can enjoy a direct and hassle-free journey between Antrim and Belfast while keeping their fuel costs relatively low.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when planning a trip between Antrim and Belfast in Northern Ireland, considering the cost of fuel is essential. After analyzing the three main route options and the current gas prices, Route 1, utilizing the A6/M2 motorway, emerges as the most economical choice.

This recommended route covers approximately 24 miles in around 30 minutes. With gas prices averaging around £1.25 per litre, the estimated cost of fuel for this journey is approximately £4.50. By taking this route, travelers can enjoy a cost-effective and efficient trip, allowing them to focus more on the destination than the expenses along the way.