The cost of a road trip from Bolsover to Swansea amidst current gas prices

A road trip from Bolsover, England to Swansea, Wales can be an exciting adventure, especially when exploring the beautiful countryside of the United Kingdom. However, before embarking on such a road trip, it is important to have a clear understanding of the available routes and their associated costs.

The Distance and Route Options

The distance between Bolsover and Swansea is approximately 166 miles, and there are different routes available to cover this distance. The route options include:

Route 1 - Using the A38 and M5

This route starts from Bolsover and passes through Derby, Bristol, and Cardiff before reaching Swansea. The A38, a three-lane dual carriageway linking Derbyshire and Devon, connects Bolsover to the M5, which runs from Birmingham to Exeter on the south-west coast. From Bristol, you take the M4 to Cardiff, before finally taking the M4 again to Swansea.

This is the most popular route, as it is the fastest and most straightforward option, covering approximately 166 miles. The distance, coupled with fuel consumption and other travel-related costs, makes it an estimated £34.66 in petrol costs alone, considering an average gas price of £5.20 per gallon and a fuel consumption rate of 28 MPG.

Route 2 - Using the A515 and A50

From Bolsover, the A515 leads to Ashbourne, before joining the A50. This passes through Burton-on-Trent and Stoke-on-Trent before joining up with the M6. From there, take either the M5 or M42 to Bristol and then onwards to Swansea.

This route is about 190 miles and will take roughly 4 hours. The fuel consumption and cost for this route are estimated at about £40.30, considering the distance travelled and a fuel consumption rate of 28 MPG and an average gas price of £5.20 per gallon.

Route 3 - Using the A50 and A483

This route, like Route 2, starts with the A50 but takes the A483 towards Welshpool, taking in the beautiful mountain ranges around Snowdonia. Once you reach Welshpool, take the A458 to Shrewsbury, joining the M54 and, finally, the M6. After that, take either the M5 or M42 to Bristol and then onwards to Swansea.

The total mileage for Route 3 is about 220 miles, and expected fuel consumption for this route is approximately £47.12, considering a fuel consumption rate of 28 MPG and an average gas price of £5.20 per gallon.

Recommended Route

Considering the distance, fuel consumption, and cost-effectiveness, Route 1 is undoubtedly the recommended route for a road trip from Bolsover to Swansea amidst current gas prices, considering that it is the most direct and efficient route available. Route 2 and Route 3 both have their charms, but the extra miles distance and fuel consumption costs they entail make them less appealing than Route 1.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a road trip from Bolsover to Swansea via Route 1 incurs an estimated petrol cost of £34.66. Driving this route will take about 3 and a half hours, covering a total distance of approximately 166 miles. However, it is essential to note that other times of the year can affect the fuel prices, and the cost of the journey may be revalued. It's always important to keep an eye on the gas price changes and recalculate the cost of the journey accordingly. Once you hit the road, remember to enjoy the journey and stay safe while driving.