Is there a train to Cambridge?

No, there is no direct passenger rail service to Cambridge.

How long is the drive?

The drive typically takes 2.5 hours.

No, Highway 401 is toll-free in this section.

What is the best highway?

Highway 401 East is the primary and most efficient route.

Is it safe to drive in winter?

Yes, but exercise extreme caution during snow squalls.

Cambridge

Driving

Oldcastle to Cambridge

Updated: 27 May 2026

The journey from Oldcastle to Cambridge spans approximately 235 kilometers primarily via Highway 401 East. You will typically complete this drive in 2 hours and 30 minutes depending on traffic near London. This route is the main artery connecting Southwestern Ontario to the Waterloo Region. Expect heavy congestion during peak hours near the Highway 401 and Highway 8 interchange. The drive offers a straightforward path through the heart of the province's industrial corridor.

Total Distance: 235 km driving distance; 210 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via Highway 401 is the fastest option, taking roughly 150 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective method for this route.

Compare Oldcastle to Cambridge Routes

Driving

Direct

Duration

2 hours 30 mins

Avg Price

$45 - $60 in fuel

Operator

Personal Vehicle

Route

Highway 401 East through London and Woodstock.

Use the Waze app to monitor real-time construction delays near Kitchener.

Travel Tips

Avoid Peak Hours
Try to leave Oldcastle before 6 AM to avoid the morning rush in London.
Fuel Up Early
Gas prices are often lower in the Windsor-Essex area than in the Waterloo Region.
Check Weather
Winter storms on the 401 can cause significant delays; check Ontario 511.
Rest Stops
The Tilbury and Dutton ONroute service centers are ideal for mid-trip breaks.
Navigation
Download offline maps as cellular service can be spotty in rural stretches.

Safety Tips

Speed Limits
Strictly observe the 100 km/h limit, as OPP frequently patrol the 401.
Wildlife
Be cautious of deer at dawn and dusk, especially near rural sections.
Emergency Kit
Keep a basic emergency kit in your trunk, including jumper cables and water.
Fatigue
Take a 15-minute break every two hours to maintain alertness.