Is St. Thomas far from London?

No, St. Thomas is located just south of London, Ontario.

How long is the drive?

The drive is approximately 8.5 hours under normal conditions.

The 401 is toll-free, but the 407 ETR is a toll road.

There are no direct flights; driving is the most practical option.

What is the best route?

The 401 West is the standard and most direct route.

St. Thomas

Driving

Bedford to St. Thomas

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Bedford to St. Thomas is a long-distance drive of approximately 750 kilometers. You will traverse the entire length of the 401 corridor through Ontario. This trip typically takes 8.5 to 9 hours, depending on traffic in the Greater Toronto Area and the London region. Driving is the only practical way to make this trip directly. Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained for this extensive cross-province travel.

Total Distance: 750 km driving distance; 680 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest, taking 8.5 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective method for this long-distance route.

Compare Bedford to St. Thomas Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

8 hours 30 mins

Avg Price

$140-$170 in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

Autoroute 10, Autoroute 20, Highway 401 West, Highway 402 West.

Take Highway 401 to London, then follow signs for St. Thomas.

Travel Tips

Traffic Management
Avoid the Toronto 401 corridor during peak rush hours to save significant time.
Fuel Stops
Plan your fuel stops in advance to avoid running low in remote highway sections.
Comfort Breaks
Take a break every 2-3 hours to stretch and maintain focus on the road.
Navigation
Use a reliable GPS to navigate the transition from the 401 to the local roads in St. Thomas.
Weather
Check for lake-effect snow warnings if traveling in the late autumn or winter months.

Safety Tips

Highway Vigilance
Stay alert for heavy truck traffic on the 401, especially near London.
Vehicle Prep
Check your tire pressure and fluid levels before leaving on this long trip.
Emergency Kit
Carry a well-stocked emergency kit, including a blanket and non-perishable food.
Fatigue
If you feel tired, pull over at a designated rest area; safety is the priority.