Difference between revisions of "uk-toll"

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{{DISPLAYTITLE: UK Toll Roads, Bridges, Highways, Tunnels and Motorways}}
 
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{{#seo:|title=UK Toll Roads, Bridges, Highways, Tunnels and Motorways}}
 
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{{#seo:|keywords=UK tolls, Toll roads UK, UK motorway tolls, UK bridge toll, UK toll rate, warburton tol bridge fine, m25 toll, london toll roads, avoid m6 toll}}
 
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{{#seo:|description=Know all about UK tolls — M6, M25 motorways, Dartford crossing, Mersey Tunnels etc., toll map, toll payment - Flexi pass, Fast Tag etc., congestion charges and more.}}
 
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{{#canonics: https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/uk-toll}}
 
 
{{worldMap}}
 
{{worldMap}}
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__TOC__
 
  
 
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<div class="shadowCard">
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In the UK, tolls are collected for the M6 motorway near Birmingham and for Dartford crossing on the M25 motorway. In addition, there are  few bridges and tunnels where you need to pay tolls for crossing. You need to pay a congestion charge when you have to drive in central London and Durham city center.
 
  
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<html><figure class="aligncenter text-center size-full is-resized"><img alt="The toll plazas in the UK for all motorways, bridges and tunnels including the M25, M6 motorways, and Dartford Crossing." class="wp-image-6898" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 563px) 100vw, 563px" src="https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/images/d/df/uk_toll_map.jpg" srcset="https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/images/d/df/uk_toll_map.jpg" 1922w, "https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/images/thumb/d/df/uk_toll_map.jpg/605px-uk_toll_map.jpg" 768w, "https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/images/thumb/d/df/uk_toll_map.jpg/242px-uk_toll_map.jpg 559w" width="560"/>
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= UK Toll Roads 2025: Complete Guide =
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<figcaption>Toll plaza locations in the UK</figcaption>
 
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</figure></html>
 
  
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</div><div class="shadowCard">
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<div style="background: #ffffff; border: 1px solid #dee2e6; border-radius: 8px; padding: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px;">
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== How much are tolls in the UK ==
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<div style="color: #6c757d; font-size: 14px;">
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In the UK, each bridge and tunnel has its own price structure. Toll rates can depend on
+
'''System:''' Mixed (Cash, Card, Electronic Tags, ANPR)<br>
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* Vehicle that you are driving - Trucks and HGVs have higher toll rates than motorcycles. Toll rates can also depend on weight, height and occupancy of the vehicle
+
'''Operator:''' Various (Highways England, Private Companies)<br>
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* Time-of-the-day - Travel in night-time is cheaper than in the peak hours
+
'''Currency:''' British Pound (GBP)<br>
−
* Payment methods
+
'''Coverage:''' 23 toll roads, bridges, and tunnels<br>
 +
'''Technology:''' ANPR, Electronic Tags, Traditional Toll Booths
 +
</div>
 
</div>
 
</div>
  
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<div class="shadowCard">
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<div style="text-align: center; margin: 20px 0;">
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== How do you pay tolls in UK ==
+
[https://tollguru.com/toll-calculator-united-kingdom Calculate UK Toll]
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For several bridges and tunnels you can pay tolls at the toll booths. Payment can be made using cash, credit cards and toll tags issued by the respective authorities. M25 Dartford crossing and Mersey gateway bridge don't have physical toll booths.
 
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For Dartford Crossing, you can pay the Dart charge in advance or within the next midnight of travel through
 
−
* online <ref>[https://www.gov.uk/pay-dartford-crossing-charge Pay online at Dartford Crossing] </ref>
 
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* with cash at Payzone centers
 
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* by post
 
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* by phone
 
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For Mersey gateway bridge you can pay the fee within the next midnight of travel
 
−
* through quick-pay-app
 
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* Mersey flow’s walk-in center
 
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* by phone
 
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* at Payzone centers
 
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<div class="alert alert-warning" role="alert">
 
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  For Dartford crossing If you don’t pay the fee, you will receive a penalty charge of £70. This charge would reduce to £35 if you pay within 14 days after receiving the notice.
 
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</div>
 
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To [https://tollguru.com/toll-calculator-united-kingdom calculate the toll charges for bridges and tunnels online, use TollGuru UK toll calculator]. TollGuru provides detailed toll costs along with the eligible toll tags on the bridges. You can also see the congestion charges if your trip involves London or Durham.
 
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<html>
 
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<div style="text-align: center;">
 
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<a href="https://tollguru.com/toll-calculator-united-kingdom"><button type="button" class="custom-button button-orange">UK Toll Calculator</button></a>
 
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</div>
 
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</html>
 
 
</div>
 
</div>
  
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<div class="shadowCard">
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== Do I Need to Pay Tolls in the UK? 2025 Update ==
 +
 
 +
The UK has a '''limited toll network''' with most roads free to use. Tolls apply only to specific motorways, bridges, tunnels, and congestion zones:
 +
 
 +
'''Major Toll Roads:'''
 +
* '''M6 Toll''' - Birmingham bypass (27 miles)
 +
* '''Dartford Crossing''' - M25 Thames crossing
 +
* '''Various bridges and tunnels''' - River crossings nationwide
 +
 
 +
'''Congestion Charges:'''
 +
* '''London Congestion Charge''' - Central London (£15/day)
 +
* '''Durham City Centre''' - Limited area charge
 +
 
 +
'''Most UK Roads Are Free:''' The majority of motorways, A-roads, and local roads have no tolls.
 +
 
 +
== UK Toll Costs: Current Rates ==
 +
 
 +
UK toll charges vary significantly by location and vehicle type, with many offering electronic payment discounts.
 +
 
 +
=== Major Toll Roads (2025) ===
 +
 
 +
<table class="toll-table">
 +
<tr>
 +
<th>Toll Road/Crossing</th>
 +
<th>Cars (Peak)</th>
 +
<th>Cars (Off-Peak)</th>
 +
<th>Payment Methods</th>
 +
<th>Operating Hours</th>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>M6 Toll</td>
 +
<td>£6.70</td>
 +
<td>Same</td>
 +
<td>Card, TAG (5% discount)</td>
 +
<td>24/7</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Dartford Crossing</td>
 +
<td>£2.50</td>
 +
<td>FREE</td>
 +
<td>Online, Phone, Account</td>
 +
<td>6am-10pm (charges)</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Severn Bridge</td>
 +
<td>FREE</td>
 +
<td>FREE</td>
 +
<td>N/A</td>
 +
<td>Abolished 2018</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Mersey Gateway</td>
 +
<td>£2.00</td>
 +
<td>Same</td>
 +
<td>ANPR, Account</td>
 +
<td>24/7</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Humber Bridge</td>
 +
<td>£1.50</td>
 +
<td>Same</td>
 +
<td>Cash, Card, HumberTag</td>
 +
<td>24/7</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
 
 +
=== Congestion Charges ===
 +
 
 +
<table class="toll-table">
 +
<tr>
 +
<th>Zone</th>
 +
<th>Charge</th>
 +
<th>Operating Hours</th>
 +
<th>Payment Deadline</th>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>London Congestion Charge</td>
 +
<td>£15.00</td>
 +
<td>7am-10pm (Mon-Sun)</td>
 +
<td>Midnight following day</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Durham City Centre</td>
 +
<td>£2.00</td>
 +
<td>Mon-Sat daytime</td>
 +
<td>Same day</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
 
 +
=== Electronic Tag Discounts ===
 +
 
 +
* '''M6 TAG:''' 5% discount on all M6 Toll journeys
 +
* '''HumberTag:''' Reduced rates for frequent users
 +
* '''Dartford Account:''' Lower charges for registered users
 +
 
 +
== How to Pay UK Tolls ==
 +
 
 +
=== Payment Methods by Location ===
 +
 
 +
'''M6 Toll:'''
 +
* Credit/debit cards (no cash accepted)
 +
* Electronic TAG system (5% discount)
 +
* Fuel cards (Keyfuel, Allstar)
 +
 
 +
'''Dartford Crossing (Dart Charge):'''
 +
* Online payment at gov.uk/pay-dartford-crossing-charge
 +
* Phone: 0300 300 0120
 +
* Set up automatic account for regular users
 +
* Pay by midnight the day after crossing
 +
 
 +
'''Traditional Toll Bridges:'''
 +
* Cash payments accepted
 +
* Credit/debit cards
 +
* Some offer electronic tag systems
 +
 
 +
=== Important Payment Rules ===
 +
 
 +
* '''Dartford Crossing:''' No toll booths - must pay remotely
 +
* '''M6 Toll:''' Cash not accepted - cards only
 +
* '''Mersey Gateway:''' ANPR system - pay online after crossing
 +
* '''Most bridges:''' Traditional toll booth payment available
 +
 
 +
== Recent Changes (2025) ==
 +
 
 +
* '''September 2025:''' Dartford Crossing charges will increase
 +
* '''M6 Toll rates:''' Adjusted January 2023, remain stable through 2025
 +
* '''Electronic systems:''' Enhanced ANPR technology across major crossings
 +
* '''Payment options:''' Expanded contactless and mobile payment methods
 +
* '''Congestion zones:''' London charge maintained at £15 throughout 2025
 +
 
 +
== Penalties & Enforcement ==
 +
 
 +
=== Penalty Structure ===
 +
 
 +
<table class="toll-table">
 +
<tr>
 +
<th>Crossing/Road</th>
 +
<th>Standard Fine</th>
 +
<th>Early Payment</th>
 +
<th>Late Payment</th>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Dartford Crossing</td>
 +
<td>£70</td>
 +
<td>£35 (within 14 days)</td>
 +
<td>£105 (after 28 days)</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>London Congestion Charge</td>
 +
<td>£160</td>
 +
<td>£80 (within 14 days)</td>
 +
<td>£240 (after 28 days)</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Mersey Gateway</td>
 +
<td>£60</td>
 +
<td>£30 (within 14 days)</td>
 +
<td>£90 (after 28 days)</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
 
 +
=== Enforcement Methods ===
 +
* '''ANPR cameras:''' Automatic number plate recognition
 +
* '''Manual checks:''' At traditional toll booths
 +
* '''Mobile enforcement:''' Congestion charge zones
 +
* '''Penalty notices:''' Sent to registered vehicle owner
 +
 
 +
== Planning Your UK Journey ==
 +
 
 +
=== Cost Considerations ===
 +
* '''M6 Toll:''' £6.70 vs. free M6 (but significant time savings during peak hours)
 +
* '''Dartford Crossing:''' £2.50 vs. long detour around London
 +
* '''London driving:''' £15 congestion charge plus parking costs
 +
* '''Alternative routes:''' Most tolls can be avoided with longer journey times
 +
 
 +
=== Travel Tips ===
 +
* '''Dartford timing:''' FREE between 10pm-6am
 +
* '''M6 Toll benefits:''' Bypass Birmingham congestion, especially during peak hours
 +
* '''London alternatives:''' Consider public transport to avoid congestion charge
 +
* '''Electronic accounts:''' Set up for frequent crossing users
 +
* '''Payment reminders:''' Use mobile apps or set calendar alerts
 +
 
 +
== UK vs. Regional Countries ==
 +
 
 +
<table class="toll-table">
 +
<tr>
 +
<th>Country</th>
 +
<th>System Type</th>
 +
<th>Coverage</th>
 +
<th>Typical Cost</th>
 +
<th>Notes</th>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>United Kingdom</td>
 +
<td>Limited tolls</td>
 +
<td>23 specific locations</td>
 +
<td>£1.50-6.70</td>
 +
<td>Most roads free</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Ireland</td>
 +
<td>Specific toll roads</td>
 +
<td>11 toll schemes</td>
 +
<td>€1.65-12.00</td>
 +
<td>Bridge/tunnel focused</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>France</td>
 +
<td>Distance-based</td>
 +
<td>Extensive autoroute network</td>
 +
<td>~€0.09/km</td>
 +
<td>Major highway tolls</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Belgium</td>
 +
<td>Free (cars)</td>
 +
<td>No car tolls</td>
 +
<td>€0</td>
 +
<td>Truck tolls only</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
<tr>
 +
<td>Netherlands</td>
 +
<td>Very limited</td>
 +
<td>2 toll routes only</td>
 +
<td>Varies</td>
 +
<td>Mostly free roads</td>
 +
</tr>
 +
</table>
 +
 
 +
== Frequently Asked Questions ==
 +
 
 +
=== Can I avoid all tolls in the UK? ===
 +
Yes, most UK tolls can be avoided by taking alternative routes. However, this usually means longer journey times and potential congestion, especially around major cities.
 +
 
 +
=== What happens if I forget to pay the Dartford Crossing charge? ===
 +
You'll receive a penalty notice for £70, reduced to £35 if paid within 14 days. You must also pay the original crossing charge.
 +
 
 +
=== Do I need to pay if I'm just passing through London? ===
 +
You only pay the congestion charge if you drive within the specific central London zone during charging hours (7am-10pm daily).
 +
 
 +
=== Are motorcycles charged the same as cars? ===
 +
Usually no - motorcycles typically pay reduced rates or may be exempt. For example, motorcycles are exempt from Dartford Crossing charges.
 +
 
 +
=== Can I get discounts for frequent use? ===
 +
Yes, several crossings offer discounts: M6 TAG gives 5% off, Dartford has account holder rates, and local residents can get special rates.
 +
 
 +
=== Do electric vehicles get toll discounts? ===
 +
Generally no special discounts for tolls, but electric vehicles are exempt from London Congestion Charge.
 +
 
 +
=== What if I live near a toll crossing? ===
 +
Local residents often get discounted rates. For example, Dartford and Thurrock residents can pay £20/year for unlimited crossings.
 +
 
 +
== Common Mistakes to Avoid ==
  
−
== What is a congestion charge in UK and how to pay congestion charge ==
+
* '''Forgetting Dartford payment deadline''' - Must pay by midnight the day after crossing
−
Congestion charge is a price you have to pay if you drive in a specific area called congestion zone. You only need to pay once for a day and you can travel in and out of the zone as many times as you want for that day. Congestion charges apply in London<ref> [https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/congestion-charge London congestion charge]</ref> and in Durham City Center.<ref> [https://www.durham.gov.uk/article/3437/Durham-Road-User-Charge-Zone-congestion-charge Durham congestion charge]</ref>
+
* '''Assuming you can pay cash everywhere''' - M6 Toll is card-only
−
* In London, you need to pay a £15 daily charge if you drive between 7am and 10pm
+
* '''Not setting up accounts for regular use''' - Missing out on discounts and convenience
−
* In Durham, the daily charge is £2 for entering the zone between 10am and 4pm on weekdays. It’s not applicable on weekends.
+
* '''Confusing congestion charge with toll roads''' - London charge applies to area access, not specific roads
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</div>
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* '''Not checking free crossing times''' - Dartford is free 10pm-6am
 +
* '''Ignoring penalty notices''' - Fines increase significantly if not paid promptly
  
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<div class="shadowCard">
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== Major UK Toll Locations ==
−
== How to pay congestion charge in London and Durham ==
 
−
In London, you must pay in advance or by midnight on the day of travel to avoid fines. You can pay online or using Autopay which deducts charges automatically once in a month based on the number of trips. </br>
 
  
−
In Durham, you can pay the charge through telephone. You can either pay in advance or by 6pm on the day of travel.
+
=== England ===
−
</div>
+
* '''M6 Toll''' - Birmingham area bypass
 +
* '''Dartford Crossing''' - Thames crossing on M25
 +
* '''Mersey Gateway''' - Runcorn-Widnes crossing
 +
* '''Humber Bridge''' - Yorkshire river crossing
 +
* '''Itchen Bridge''' - Southampton
 +
* '''Tamar Bridge''' - Cornwall-Devon border
 +
* '''Various smaller bridges''' - Local river crossings
  
−
<div class="shadowCard">
+
=== Scotland ===
−
== Can you avoid Dartford crossing in UK ==
+
* '''Skye Bridge''' - Access to Isle of Skye
−
You can avoid payment if you travel over the crossing between 10pm and 6am. Dartford crossing is toll-free in this period. Use UK toll calculator to get alternate routes along with the toll costs and plan the travel smartly.
+
* '''Forth Crossings''' - Edinburgh-Fife connections
−
</div>
+
* '''Some Highland bridges''' - Remote area crossings
  
−
<div class="shadowCard">
+
=== Wales ===
−
== Toll info by bridges, roads and tunnels ==
+
* '''Severn Crossings''' - FREE since 2018
 +
* '''Conwy Tunnel''' - North Wales
 +
* '''Cleddau Bridge''' - Pembrokeshire
  
−
<html>
+
=== Northern Ireland ===
−
<div class="row">
+
* Limited toll facilities
−
<div class="col-lg-4">
+
* Most crossings publicly funded
−
<ul style="list-style: none;"><li><a href="/toll-wiki/m6-toll">M6 Toll</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/aldwark-toll-bridge">Aldwark Bridge</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/bathampton-toll-bridge">A4 - Bathampton Bridge</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/cartford-toll-bridge">Cartford Bridge</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/cleddau-toll-bridge">Cleddau Bridge</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/clifton-suspension-bridge-toll">B3129 - Clifton Suspension Bridge</a></li></ul>
 
−
</div>
 
−
<div class="col-lg-4">
 
−
<ul style="list-style: none;"><li><a href="/toll-wiki/dartford-crossing-toll">M25 - Dartford Crossing</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/humber-bridge-toll">A15 - Humber Bridge</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/itchen-bridge-toll">A3025 - Itchen Bridge</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/kingsland-bridge-toll">Kingsland Bridge</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/mersey-tunnel-toll">A59 - Mersey Tunnels</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/mersey-gateway-toll">A533 - Mersey Gateway</a></li></ul>
 
−
</div>
 
−
<div class="col-lg-4">
 
−
<ul style="list-style: none;"><li><a href="/toll-wiki/prince-of-wales-bridge">M4 - Prince of Wales Bridge</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/swinford-bridge-toll">B4044 - Swinford Bridge</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/tamar-bridge-toll">A38 - Tamar Bridge</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/tyne-tunnels-toll">A19 - Tyne Tunnels</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/warburton-bridge-toll">B5159 - Warburton Bridge</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/whitchurch-bridge-toll">B471 - Whitchurch Bridge</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/whitney-on-wye-bridge-toll">B4350 - Whitney-on-Wye Bridge</a></li></ul>
 
−
</div>
 
−
</div>
 
−
</html>
 
−
</div>
 
  
 +
== Useful Links & Resources ==
  
−
<div class="shadowCard">
+
* [https://www.gov.uk/pay-dartford-crossing-charge Official Dartford Crossing Payment]
 +
* [https://www.m6toll.co.uk M6 Toll Official Website]
 +
* [https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/congestion-charge London Congestion Charge]
 +
* [https://www.merseyflow.co.uk Mersey Gateway Crossing]
  
−
== Toll tags in UK ==
+
<div style="text-align: center; margin: 30px 0;">
−
<html>
+
[https://tollguru.com/toll-calculator-united-kingdom Calculate Your UK Toll Cost]
−
<div class="row">
 
−
<div class="col-lg-4">
 
−
<ul style="list-style: none;"><li><a href="/toll-wiki/crossing-card">Clifton Suspension bridge toll card</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/fast-toll">Fast Tag</a></li></ul>
 
−
</div>
 
−
<div class="col-lg-4">
 
−
<ul style="list-style: none;"><li><a href="/toll-wiki/flexi-pass">Flexi pass</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/humbertag">HumberTAG</a></li></ul>
 
−
</div>
 
−
<div class="col-lg-4">
 
−
<ul style="list-style: none;"><li><a href="/toll-wiki/smartcity-card">SmartCity card</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/tamartag">TamarTag</a></li><li><a href="/toll-wiki/warburton-toll-bridge-pass">Warburton Toll Bridge pass</a></li></ul>
 
−
</div>
 
−
</div>
 
−
</html>
 
 
</div>
 
</div>
−
{{TollGuruEuropeCTA}}
 
−
{{WhichEuropeanCountriesHaveMotorwayTolls}}
 
−
 
−
<div class="shadowCard">
 
  
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== References ==
 
−
<references />
 
 
</div>
 
</div>

Latest revision as of 20:19, 1 July 2025

Click on the map to open toll wiki for a country/state

UK Toll Roads 2025: Complete Guide

System: Mixed (Cash, Card, Electronic Tags, ANPR)
Operator: Various (Highways England, Private Companies)
Currency: British Pound (GBP)
Coverage: 23 toll roads, bridges, and tunnels
Technology: ANPR, Electronic Tags, Traditional Toll Booths

Do I Need to Pay Tolls in the UK? 2025 Update

The UK has a limited toll network with most roads free to use. Tolls apply only to specific motorways, bridges, tunnels, and congestion zones:

Major Toll Roads:

  • M6 Toll - Birmingham bypass (27 miles)
  • Dartford Crossing - M25 Thames crossing
  • Various bridges and tunnels - River crossings nationwide

Congestion Charges:

  • London Congestion Charge - Central London (£15/day)
  • Durham City Centre - Limited area charge

Most UK Roads Are Free: The majority of motorways, A-roads, and local roads have no tolls.

UK Toll Costs: Current Rates

UK toll charges vary significantly by location and vehicle type, with many offering electronic payment discounts.

Major Toll Roads (2025)

Toll Road/Crossing Cars (Peak) Cars (Off-Peak) Payment Methods Operating Hours
M6 Toll £6.70 Same Card, TAG (5% discount) 24/7
Dartford Crossing £2.50 FREE Online, Phone, Account 6am-10pm (charges)
Severn Bridge FREE FREE N/A Abolished 2018
Mersey Gateway £2.00 Same ANPR, Account 24/7
Humber Bridge £1.50 Same Cash, Card, HumberTag 24/7

Congestion Charges

Zone Charge Operating Hours Payment Deadline
London Congestion Charge £15.00 7am-10pm (Mon-Sun) Midnight following day
Durham City Centre £2.00 Mon-Sat daytime Same day

Electronic Tag Discounts

  • M6 TAG: 5% discount on all M6 Toll journeys
  • HumberTag: Reduced rates for frequent users
  • Dartford Account: Lower charges for registered users

How to Pay UK Tolls

Payment Methods by Location

M6 Toll:

  • Credit/debit cards (no cash accepted)
  • Electronic TAG system (5% discount)
  • Fuel cards (Keyfuel, Allstar)

Dartford Crossing (Dart Charge):

  • Online payment at gov.uk/pay-dartford-crossing-charge
  • Phone: 0300 300 0120
  • Set up automatic account for regular users
  • Pay by midnight the day after crossing

Traditional Toll Bridges:

  • Cash payments accepted
  • Credit/debit cards
  • Some offer electronic tag systems

Important Payment Rules

  • Dartford Crossing: No toll booths - must pay remotely
  • M6 Toll: Cash not accepted - cards only
  • Mersey Gateway: ANPR system - pay online after crossing
  • Most bridges: Traditional toll booth payment available

Recent Changes (2025)

  • September 2025: Dartford Crossing charges will increase
  • M6 Toll rates: Adjusted January 2023, remain stable through 2025
  • Electronic systems: Enhanced ANPR technology across major crossings
  • Payment options: Expanded contactless and mobile payment methods
  • Congestion zones: London charge maintained at £15 throughout 2025

Penalties & Enforcement

Penalty Structure

Crossing/Road Standard Fine Early Payment Late Payment
Dartford Crossing £70 £35 (within 14 days) £105 (after 28 days)
London Congestion Charge £160 £80 (within 14 days) £240 (after 28 days)
Mersey Gateway £60 £30 (within 14 days) £90 (after 28 days)

Enforcement Methods

  • ANPR cameras: Automatic number plate recognition
  • Manual checks: At traditional toll booths
  • Mobile enforcement: Congestion charge zones
  • Penalty notices: Sent to registered vehicle owner

Planning Your UK Journey

Cost Considerations

  • M6 Toll: £6.70 vs. free M6 (but significant time savings during peak hours)
  • Dartford Crossing: £2.50 vs. long detour around London
  • London driving: £15 congestion charge plus parking costs
  • Alternative routes: Most tolls can be avoided with longer journey times

Travel Tips

  • Dartford timing: FREE between 10pm-6am
  • M6 Toll benefits: Bypass Birmingham congestion, especially during peak hours
  • London alternatives: Consider public transport to avoid congestion charge
  • Electronic accounts: Set up for frequent crossing users
  • Payment reminders: Use mobile apps or set calendar alerts

UK vs. Regional Countries

Country System Type Coverage Typical Cost Notes
United Kingdom Limited tolls 23 specific locations £1.50-6.70 Most roads free
Ireland Specific toll roads 11 toll schemes €1.65-12.00 Bridge/tunnel focused
France Distance-based Extensive autoroute network ~€0.09/km Major highway tolls
Belgium Free (cars) No car tolls €0 Truck tolls only
Netherlands Very limited 2 toll routes only Varies Mostly free roads

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I avoid all tolls in the UK?

Yes, most UK tolls can be avoided by taking alternative routes. However, this usually means longer journey times and potential congestion, especially around major cities.

What happens if I forget to pay the Dartford Crossing charge?

You'll receive a penalty notice for £70, reduced to £35 if paid within 14 days. You must also pay the original crossing charge.

Do I need to pay if I'm just passing through London?

You only pay the congestion charge if you drive within the specific central London zone during charging hours (7am-10pm daily).

Are motorcycles charged the same as cars?

Usually no - motorcycles typically pay reduced rates or may be exempt. For example, motorcycles are exempt from Dartford Crossing charges.

Can I get discounts for frequent use?

Yes, several crossings offer discounts: M6 TAG gives 5% off, Dartford has account holder rates, and local residents can get special rates.

Do electric vehicles get toll discounts?

Generally no special discounts for tolls, but electric vehicles are exempt from London Congestion Charge.

What if I live near a toll crossing?

Local residents often get discounted rates. For example, Dartford and Thurrock residents can pay £20/year for unlimited crossings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Forgetting Dartford payment deadline - Must pay by midnight the day after crossing
  • Assuming you can pay cash everywhere - M6 Toll is card-only
  • Not setting up accounts for regular use - Missing out on discounts and convenience
  • Confusing congestion charge with toll roads - London charge applies to area access, not specific roads
  • Not checking free crossing times - Dartford is free 10pm-6am
  • Ignoring penalty notices - Fines increase significantly if not paid promptly

Major UK Toll Locations

England

  • M6 Toll - Birmingham area bypass
  • Dartford Crossing - Thames crossing on M25
  • Mersey Gateway - Runcorn-Widnes crossing
  • Humber Bridge - Yorkshire river crossing
  • Itchen Bridge - Southampton
  • Tamar Bridge - Cornwall-Devon border
  • Various smaller bridges - Local river crossings

Scotland

  • Skye Bridge - Access to Isle of Skye
  • Forth Crossings - Edinburgh-Fife connections
  • Some Highland bridges - Remote area crossings

Wales

  • Severn Crossings - FREE since 2018
  • Conwy Tunnel - North Wales
  • Cleddau Bridge - Pembrokeshire

Northern Ireland

  • Limited toll facilities
  • Most crossings publicly funded

Useful Links & Resources

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