How Much Does It Cost to Drive to Scotland From London?

By Robert Palmer

Are you planning a road trip to Scotland from London? Well, that’s a fantastic idea!

The journey is full of scenic beauty and breathtaking views. However, one of the most important aspects of planning a road trip is knowing how much it will cost. In this article, we will discuss the approximate cost of driving from London to Scotland.

Distance and Time

The distance between London and Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is approximately 404 miles (650 kilometers). If you drive at an average speed of 60 miles per hour (96 kilometers per hour), it should take around 7 hours to reach your destination. However, this time can vary depending on traffic conditions and stops along the way.

Fuel Costs

One of the biggest expenses for any road trip is fuel costs. The cost of petrol (gasoline) in the UK fluctuates regularly but as of August 2021, it averages around £1.30 ($1.80) per liter.

Assuming your car has an average fuel efficiency of 30 miles per gallon (12.75 kilometers per liter), you would need roughly 13.5 gallons (51 liters) of petrol for the journey from London to Edinburgh.

Therefore, the total cost for fuel would be around £70 ($97).

Tolls and Charges

There are no toll roads on the route from London to Edinburgh; however, if you take any detours or alternate routes, there may be some toll charges.

Another charge that may apply is the Congestion Charge in London. This fee applies to drivers who enter central London between certain hours on weekdays. As of August 2021, this fee is £15 ($21) per day.

Accommodation Costs

If you plan on breaking up your journey with an overnight stay somewhere along the way or in Edinburgh itself, you will need to budget for accommodation costs. The cost of accommodation varies widely depending on the type of accommodation you choose and its location.

A basic hotel room in Edinburgh can cost anywhere from £50-£100 ($70-$140) per night, while a more luxurious hotel room can cost upwards of £200 ($280) per night.

Food and Drink Costs

Finally, you will need to consider food and drink costs. This can vary depending on your preferences and where you choose to eat. A meal at a fast food restaurant may cost around £5-£10 ($7-$14), while a sit-down meal at a restaurant can cost upwards of £25 ($35).

Conclusion

So how much does it cost to drive to Scotland from London? Based on the estimates above, the total cost for fuel, congestion charges (if applicable), and food/drinks would be around £100-£150 ($140-$210) for a one-way trip.

However, this is just an estimate as the actual costs may vary depending on your specific circumstances. It’s always a good idea to plan ahead and budget accordingly so that you can enjoy your road trip without any financial stress.