UK Toll Roads 2025: The Complete Guide

Unlike most European countries, the UK has a limited number of toll roads. In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover everything you need to know about UK tolls, how they're calculated, and how to save money on your journeys.

How UK Toll Roads Work

The UK toll road system is quite different from continental Europe. Rather than a nationwide motorway toll system, the UK has specific toll roads, bridges, and tunnels that charge fees. The main toll roads include the M6 Toll, Dartford Crossing, and various bridges and tunnels across the country.

Tolls are typically charged based on vehicle type and sometimes time of day. Payment methods vary by location.

Major UK Toll Roads

M6 Toll (Birmingham)

The M6 Toll is a 27-mile motorway bypass around Birmingham. It's the UK's only major toll motorway and offers a faster alternative to the congested M6.

• Cars: £7.10 (peak), £6.00 (off-peak)
• Vans: £14.20 (peak), £12.00 (off-peak)
• HGVs: £14.20 (peak), £12.00 (off-peak)

Dartford Crossing (Thames Gateway)

The Dartford Crossing connects Kent and Essex via the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge and tunnels. It's a cashless toll - you must pay online or by phone.

• Cars: £2.50
• Vans: £3.00
• HGVs: £6.00

Other Major Toll Roads

• Mersey Tunnels: £2.00 (cars)
• Humber Bridge: £1.50 (cars)
• Severn Crossings: Now toll-free since 2018
• Tamar Bridge: £2.60 (cars)

Payment Methods

Different toll roads accept different payment methods:

1. Cash

Some toll booths still accept cash payments. However, many are moving towards cashless systems.

2. Card Payments

Most toll roads accept debit and credit cards at payment booths.

3. Dart Charge Account

For the Dartford Crossing, you can set up a Dart Charge account for automatic payments and discounted rates.

4. Tag Systems

The M6 Toll offers electronic tags for frequent users, allowing you to pass through without stopping.

Congestion Charges

In addition to toll roads, some UK cities have congestion charges:

• London Congestion Charge: £15/day (7am-6pm weekdays). Read our full guide.
• London ULEZ: £12.50/day for non-compliant vehicles
• Durham Congestion Charge: £2.00

How to Save Money on Tolls

Here are some tips to reduce your toll costs:

1. Use our toll calculator to plan ahead
2. Set up accounts for frequently used toll roads to get discounts
3. Travel during off-peak times when toll rates are lower
4. Consider alternative routes for short journeys
5. Use carpooling to share toll costs

Calculate Your Tolls

With our free calculator, you can estimate your journey costs in advance, including tolls and fuel costs.

Conclusion

Understanding the UK toll road system helps you plan your journeys better and manage your budget. Always check toll costs before you travel and consider the different payment options available.