Fuel prices in the UK have risen noticeably over the last month, reversing some of the falls seen earlier in the summer.
According to the latest road fuel data, average unleaded petrol prices increased to around 161.6p per litre by the end of August, while diesel climbed to approximately 183.5p per litre. Diesel has seen the sharpest increase, continuing a trend that began in July.
The recent increases have been driven largely by higher wholesale fuel costs and ongoing pressures in global oil markets.
Earlier in 2026, tensions in the Middle East pushed crude oil prices higher and caused significant disruption to energy supplies passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Although conditions have stabilised somewhat since then, fuel retailers are still reflecting elevated wholesale costs at the pumps.
For motorists, the impact has been substantial. Compared with prices before the spring oil market shock, filling a typical family car now costs considerably more, particularly for diesel drivers.
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Industry analysts note that diesel prices remain well above petrol prices, with the gap between the two fuels widening as diesel demand and supply pressures continue.
Looking ahead, experts expect fuel prices to remain relatively high through the autumn. The RAC has warned that further increases are possible if wholesale costs remain elevated or if global oil markets experience fresh disruption.
Diesel is considered particularly vulnerable to further rises, while petrol prices may also edge upwards if crude oil prices strengthen.
Another factor that could affect prices in the coming months is government policy. Fuel duty has remained frozen, including the temporary 5p-per-litre cut introduced in 2022.
However, speculation ahead of future fiscal announcements has prompted discussion about whether that support will continue.
Any change to fuel duty would have a direct impact on pump prices, meaning motorists could face additional costs beyond those caused by global market movements.
Where is the cheapest place for fuel? *
Welshpool
- J and M Whittingham Ltd (Texaco), Llanfair Caereinion - petrol 158.9p, 181.9p
- H Ballard and Son Motors, Welshpool - petrol 160.9p, diesel 182.9p
- Tesco Welshpool - petrol 161.9p, diesel 185.9p
- Lewis Llandrinio - petrol 162.9, diesel 185.9p
- EG Welshpool - petrol 163.9p, diesel 187.9p
- Shell Buttington - petrol 167.9p, 190.9p
- Hardings Sheds and Garden Supplies, Guilsfield - petrol 168.9p, diesel 185.9p
- Border Garage, Welshpool - petrol (Super Unleaded only) 169.9p, 185.9p
- R H Bunner & Son, Ltd, Montgomery - petrol 175.1p, diesel 200.3p
Newtown
- Glanmule Garage, Kerry - petrol 163.9p, diesel 184.9p
- Morrisons Newtown - petrol 163.9p, diesel 183.9p
- Tesco Newtown - petrol 164.9p, diesel 184.9p
- Texaco Newtown, Llanidloes Road - petrol 164.9p, diesel 184.9p
- Texaco Caersws - petrol 166.9p, diesel 186.9p
- BP Rontec Newtown - petrol 168.9p, diesel 190.9p
Builth Wells
- Asda Builth Wells - petrol 161.9p, diesel 183.9p
- Tesco Llandrindod Wells - petrol 161.9p, diesel 183.9p
- Great House Garage, Llandrindod Wells - petrol 162.0p, 183.0p
- Texaco Llandrindod Wells - petrol 162.7p, diesel 183.9p
- Texaco Builth Wells - petrol 162.9p, diesel 183.9p
- Crossgates Service Station - petrol 162.9p, diesel 183.9p
- Esso Llandrindod Wells - petrol 165.9p, diesel 187.9p
*Prices correct as per the Government's Fuel Finder database at 10am Sunday, September 6.
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