The Cost of a Road Trip from Darwen to Wigan: Navigating Routes and Budgeting with Current Gas Prices
Taking a trip from Darwen to Wigan offers an opportunity to explore the scenic landscapes of Lancashire while connecting two vibrant towns. However, the cost associated with this journey can influence your travel plans significantly. As gas prices fluctuate, understanding your options regarding the duration, distance, and total cost becomes essential. This article examines various routes, their costs based on current gas prices, and offers a recommendation for the best route to take.
Overview of the Journey
The distance between Darwen and Wigan is approximately 22 miles (35 kilometers), making this journey relatively short. However, how you navigate your route can affect travel time, fuel consumption, and overall trip cost. As of October 2023, average gas prices hover around £1.50 per liter in the UK. The calculation of your trip expenses will consider fuel efficiency and price per liter.
Route Options
Several routes connect Darwen and Wigan, each with unique characteristics:
Route 1: M65 to M61
- Distance: 25 miles
- Estimated Time: 35 minutes (without heavy traffic)
- Fuel Consumption: Approximately 1.5 liters for a fuel-efficient vehicle (based on an average of 35 miles per gallon)
- Cost: £2.25
Description: The M65 to M61 offers a straightforward highway journey. Drivers get on the M65 and follow signs leading to the M61. This route usually sees moderately light traffic outside peak hours. While it incurs minimal costs, the additional distance means higher fuel consumption.
Route 2: A666 and A577
- Distance: 21 miles
- Estimated Time: 45 minutes
- Fuel Consumption: Approximately 1.6 liters
- Cost: £2.40
Description: The A666 takes you through Blackburn and provides a more scenic drive with views of the countryside. It’s a well-maintained route, though you may encounter some city traffic in Blackburn. This route is shorter in distance but might have a higher fuel consumption due to more stops and starts.
Route 3: A674 and A49
- Distance: 24 miles
- Estimated Time: 50 minutes
- Fuel Consumption: Approximately 1.5 liters
- Cost: £2.25
Description: This route offers an alternative that veers through local towns like Chorley. It starts on the A674 before transitioning to the A49 towards Wigan. While the distance slightly increases, it’s often more enjoyable for those who prefer driving through village settings rather than highways.
Route 4: A58
- Distance: 20 miles
- Estimated Time: 35 minutes
- Fuel Consumption: Approximately 1.5 liters
- Cost: £2.25
Description: The A58 is a direct route connecting the two towns, with less highway driving. It can be quick and offers easy access without entering major traffic arteries. Moreover, it has few hills and turns, contributing to better fuel economy.
Summary of Costs
Here's a quick overview of the total costs per route:
| Route | Distance | Estimated Time | Fuel Consumption (liters) | Cost (£) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M65 to M61 | 25 miles | 35 mins | 1.5 | 2.25 |
| A666 and A577 | 21 miles | 45 mins | 1.6 | 2.40 |
| A674 and A49 | 24 miles | 50 mins | 1.5 | 2.25 |
| A58 | 20 miles | 35 mins | 1.5 | 2.25 |
Recommended Route
After evaluating the options, the best route emerges: the A58. This route not only offers the shortest distance at just 20 miles, resulting in lower fuel consumption and cost, but it also features a quick travel time of around 35 minutes. While costs vary slightly due to factors like car efficiency and driving style, using the A58 ultimately allows for the most economical and enjoyable drive.
Conclusion
Embarking on a road trip from Darwen to Wigan can be an adventure filled with scenic views and manageable costs. By taking the A58, you can expect to travel approximately 20 miles in about 35 minutes while spending around £2.25 on fuel. As you navigate toward Wigan, enjoy the striking Lancashire countryside and prepare for a satisfying journey without breaking the bank.