Morning all,

A bit of an off-topic question really... I'm driving up to Newcastle and back a fair bit at the moment, and I'm wondering which route's quicker - M1, or M18 / A1? My experience so far is that the A1's straighter, but as it's only 2 lanes you're more likely to get stuck behind trucks for long stretches at a time...

Anyone know if one's better than the other?

Cheers


Vince

Hi Vinny,

TBH, it's a case of, 6 or 2 3's, the A1/M18 route is shorter and quicker, unless you get a hold up, then like you said, it's a nightmare.

I would take the safer route, of the M1/A1, but if your travelling in the "off-peak" times, then i would take the M18/A1.

So, it's really down to, the times of day you travel.

That's a rotten drive at the moment whichever way you go.

Is staying at home an option?

Either way has its ups and downs, I live close on M1 J31, the one before the M18, and generally find the A1 slightly quicker, and less frustrating, and little more picturesque (if you can call it that) but there isn't much in it.

one thing for sure which ever one you pick the other one will be quicker, a bit like the ques for the checkout in the supermarket!

I use the M1/A1, the M18/A1 seams to suffer if the traffic gets heavy, more so than the M1/A1.

Thanks guys, as I'll be getting to Newcastle abotu 9-ish in the morning, I reckon the M1 might be a bit more free. I'll give it a go tomorrow morning when I go up....

Cheers


vince

You can always take the A19 instead of the A1 north

You can always take the A19 instead of the A1 north

I reckon Swindon to Newcastle to be about a 5 hr drive. I'd be going north up the A34 to Oxford, M40 to the Stoneleigh turn, round the bottom of Coventry, up the M69 to Leicester, then M1 to Sheff, M18 towards Donny, then A1M home.

(I used to live in Salisbury, so I've done this route dozens of times).

However, there is a major section of 50mph limit between Dishforth and Leeming at the moment, which will slow you down, but no more than being stuck on the A19 round the 'boro in rush hour.

If you are coming up this weekend, bear in mind that the A1 is going to be shut for these roadworks

If you are going to be coming up regularly, I'd be tempted to fly, or at least train it (unless you need to bring loads of gear with you).

If you have to drive, I'd consider coming up the night before (8pm-1am) as it'll be loads quieter.

Mike