The Cost of a Road Trip Between Bristol and Blandford Forum

If you're planning to travel from Bristol to Blandford Forum, you're in for a beautiful journey. Both cities are nestled in England's countryside, with gorgeous views of the rolling hills, forests, and farmland. The distance between the two places is approximately 65 miles, which means you can comfortably drive there in a little over an hour. However, before you hit the road, it's important to consider the cost of the trip. This article will break down the different possible routes and highlight the cost and distance of each one, so you can pick the best option for your budget.

Route 1: A37 and A350

The A37 and A350 route is the most direct way to get from Bristol to Blandford Forum. You'll start by taking the A37 road from Bristol and follow it southwards towards the A350 junction. Take a right onto A350, and drive on it until you get to Blandford Forum. This route covers approximately 62 miles and takes around 1 hour 20 minutes on average.

The main advantage of this route is that it's the quickest way to get to Blandford Forum from Bristol. However, it comes with a cost. Depending on the type of vehicle you're driving, you'll spend around £8-£10 on fuel for this journey. The exact amount will depend on factors like your car's fuel efficiency, the current price of petrol, and whether there are any traffic delays on the way.

Route 2: A370 and A37

If you're looking for a slightly longer and more scenic route, the A370 and A37 is an excellent option. Start by taking the A370 road from Bristol and follow it southwards towards the A37 junction. Take a right onto A37, and carry on till you get to Blandford Forum. This route covers approximately 64 miles and takes around 1 hour 25 minutes on average.

The advantage of this route is that you'll drive through the Mendip Hills, an area of outstanding natural beauty, and connect to the A37, which is also an excellent road to drive on. However, this route will cost you more in fuel as you'll use more miles, and the price of petrol could be a bit higher in the Mendip Hills region. You should expect to pay around £9-£11.

Route 3: M5 and A350

If you don't want to drive on smaller A-roads and would rather go on motorways, the M5, and A350 route might be the ideal choice for you. Start by joining the M5 from Bristol and follow it southwards until junction 17. Take a left exit onto the A350 and carry on driving until you reach Blandford Forum. This route covers approximately 72 miles and takes around 1 hour 30 minutes on average.

The primary benefit of this route is that you'll drive on a motorway, which is ideal if you're in a hurry to get to Blandford Forum. Additionally, you'll be able to take advantage of faster speed limits on the motorway, which will significantly lower your travel time. However, this route will be the most expensive, with fuel costs ranging from £11-£14. Using the motorway might not be the most fuel-efficient way to travel.

Which route should you take?

Choosing the right route really comes down to your budget, time availability, and preference for scenic drives. If you're cost-sensitive, stick to Route 1 as it's the most affordable way to get to Blandford Forum. However, if you're looking to add some extra visual delights to your journey, take either Route 2 or Route 3. The Mendip Hills and the M5 can be very scenic, and you'll get a chance to rest your eyes on the beautiful landscapes. All routes take roughly the same time, so you'll still reach Blandford Forum in under two hours.

Conclusion

In conclusion, travelling from Bristol to Blandford Forum shouldn't break the bank. You have multiple routes to pick from, and each one comes with its benefits and drawbacks in terms of costs and distances. The cheapest option is Route 1, which costs up to £10 for fuel. If you're looking for a more scenic drive, choose between Route 2, which crosses the Mendip Hills and costs around £11. If you're in a hurry, take Route 3, which travels on the M5 and costs up to £14. Whatever the route you take, enjoy the scenery and remember to budget for fuel costs before you set off on your journey.