How is journey time calculated?

Journey time is calculated using the formula: Time = Distance / Speed. The calculator adjusts your average speed based on road type — motorway journeys are typically faster, while urban driving is slower due to traffic lights, roundabouts, and congestion.

What average speed should I use?

For UK driving, realistic average speeds are: motorway 55-65 mph, A-roads 40-50 mph, mixed roads 35-50 mph, and urban 15-25 mph. These are much lower than speed limits because of traffic, junctions, and other delays. The calculator adjusts your input based on road type.

How often should I take rest stops?

The UK Highway Code (Rule 91) recommends taking a break of at least 15 minutes every 2 hours of driving. Tiredness is a factor in around 20% of motorway accidents. This calculator adds rest stops automatically for longer journeys.

Does this account for traffic?

This calculator provides an estimate based on average speeds. Real journey times vary with traffic conditions, time of day, roadworks, and weather. For peak hours (7-9am, 4-7pm on weekdays), add 20-50% to the estimated time for popular routes.

What about speed limits on UK roads?

UK speed limits are: motorways and dual carriageways 70 mph, single carriageways 60 mph, and built-up areas 30 mph (20 mph in some zones). Average speeds are always lower than limits due to traffic and road conditions.

CarCalcs

Journey Time Calculator — Estimated Travel Time

Calculate estimated journey time from distance and average speed, including rest stop recommendations.

Distance

Distance to calculate for

Average Speed

Average speed in mph

Road Type

Road type

Departure Hour (24h)

Departure hour

How We Calculate This

The Formula

Time = Distance / Average Speed

Road Type Adjustments

Motorway: Speed increased by 15% (fewer stops, higher limit)
Mixed: No adjustment (baseline)
Rural: Speed reduced by 15% (narrower roads, bends)
Urban: Speed reduced by 30% (traffic, lights, junctions)

Rest Stops

A 15-minute rest stop is added every 2 hours of driving, per Highway Code Rule 91.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Actual figures may vary based on driving conditions, vehicle specifications, and other factors.