Alternatives to the M6 Toll
M6 (free motorway)
The original free route through Birmingham. Fine off-peak. Can add 30-90 minutes at rush hour. Most sat navs default to this.
A38 / A5 cross-country
Slower but free. Goes through towns. Only use if M6 is completely gridlocked. Adds 20-30 minutes vs toll in normal conditions.
M42 / M40 (via Warwick)
If heading to/from the South East, this avoids Birmingham entirely. Slightly longer miles but often faster than M6 through Brum.