The Cost of a Trip Between Blackpool and Eastbourne: Navigating the Roads

If you're planning a road trip between Blackpool and Eastbourne – cities located at opposite ends of England – then there are several routes to consider. But with fluctuating petrol prices and the importance of budgeting, figuring out the cheapest option isn't always easy. In this article, we'll explore the different routes and provide an estimate of their cost, allowing you to make an informed decision on how to navigate the roads.

Route One: The Shortest Distance

The shortest and most direct route from Blackpool to Eastbourne is via the M6 and M1 motorways. Totaling approximately 270 miles, this route is the quickest way to reach the south coast. However, it is also the most expensive due to the higher fuel consumption associated with motorways.

At current petrol prices of around £1.26 per liter, you can expect to spend around £50 for a vehicle that can get 35 miles per gallon. If you're driving a larger vehicle that only gets 25 miles per gallon, the cost will be closer to £75. And if you're traveling in a motorhome that only gets 15 miles per gallon, the price goes up to around £120.

Route Two: Avoiding Motorways

If you're looking for a cheaper option, you may want to avoid motorways altogether. Instead, consider taking the A-roads from Blackpool to Eastbourne, which allows you to avoid the motorways and save on petrol costs.

While this route is longer at approximately 330 miles, it can still be a more economical option. Assuming you're driving a vehicle that gets 35 miles per gallon, you can expect to spend around £45 in petrol. For those driving larger vehicles at 25 miles per gallon, the cost is closer to £65. And for those in motorhomes at 15 miles per gallon, the price rises to around £105.

Route Three: The Scenic Route

For those who have more time to spare and want to enjoy some beautiful scenery, consider taking a more scenic route from Blackpool to Eastbourne. This option takes you through the Peak District and the Cotswolds, and is approximately 370 miles long.

Because you'll be traveling on A-roads and smaller roads, the petrol cost will likely be similar to Route Two. However, you may need to factor in additional costs such as tolls – if you choose to take the M6 toll road – and possibly some overnight accommodation if you decide to break up the journey. As such, you can expect to spend around £50 to £65 for a vehicle that gets 35 miles per gallon, with larger vehicles potentially costing up to £100.

So, What's the Best Option?

After weighing up the costs and distances of each option, the clear winner is the A-road route from Blackpool to Eastbourne. While it is slightly longer than the motorway route, it is also significantly cheaper, especially for those driving larger vehicles. And while the scenic route may be tempting, it's wise to factor in additional costs before committing to this option.

Overall, you can expect to spend around £45 to £65 in petrol for a vehicle that gets 35 miles per gallon. Depending on traffic and weather conditions, the journey itself can take anywhere from 5 to 7 hours. As such, budgeting accordingly and planning your route ahead of time can help make your trip between Blackpool and Eastbourne as smooth and cost-effective as possible.