UK’s most expensive motorway is 230 miles long and could cost drivers over £20

Holidaymakers planning a staycation or day out should note that their travels may include unexpected expenses. Numerous toll roads exist throughout the UK, with some potentially costing over GBP15 for a return journey. Described as Britain's most expensive motorway, the M6 in the Midlands, which stretches more than 230 miles, can cost upwards of GBP10 for a return trip, which, while not substantial, could readily impact your lunch money or similar expenses.

Northgate Vehicle Hire[1], a commercial vehicle leasing specialist supporting businesses nationwide, has emphasised that the M6 and other toll roads are alerting travellers to these additional expenses. Discussing the M6, they note that for a standard family car, a return journey costs approximately GBP10.50.

Meanwhile, those driving a heavy goods vehicle could face charges of GBP20.20 for merely a single journey, and a motorhome costs GBP19.20 one-way. The M6 connects drivers to significant tourist destinations during summer, including Drayton Manor Resort[2], and reportedly recorded 45,749 vehicles daily in 2025.

Spencer Davi, Sales and Marketing Director at Northgate Vehicle Hire, offered some observations regarding toll roads: "Toll charges are a real consideration, especially for those making regular cross-border trips. What surprised us most about this research is how much variation there is across roads within the UK." While the M6 may rank as the priciest motorway and toll road, experts have cautioned that there is another UK route that proves considerably more costly.

Specialists at Northgate Vehicle Hire have revealed that the London Congestion Charge holds the title of the UK's most expensive crossing for cars.

Costing motorists GBP15.00, the crossing is a key route for anyone planning a visit to London this summer, with the charge applicable to drivers entering the Congestion Charge Zone between 7am and 6pm Monday to Friday, and 12pm to 6pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and bank holidays.

The UK's most expensive toll roads for cars

1. London Congestion Charge, London - GBP15.00
2. M6, Midlands - GBP10.50
3. Durham Road User Charge Zone, Durham - GBP5
4. Mersey Tunnels[3] - Queensway: Liverpool - Birkenhead and Mersey Tunnels - Kingsway: Liverpool - Wallasey - GBP4.60

For those considering a staycation this year, it's well worth researching your route beforehand, as certain roads can carry a substantial price tag.

References

1. ^ Northgate Vehicle Hire (www.northgatevehiclehire.co.uk)
2. ^ Drayton Manor Resort (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)
3. ^ Mersey Tunnels (www.liverpoolecho.co.uk)