Millions of motorists across the UK are preparing for significant delays as the Easter bank holiday weekend approaches, with experts predicting severe congestion on major road networks. An estimated 14.5 million leisure journeys are expected to take place between Friday and Monday, as families and individuals head off for holidays or to visit relatives.
According to analysis, Good Friday is set to be the busiest day for travel, with over 3 million separate leisure trips forecast. This surge in traffic is likely to exacerbate existing bottlenecks, particularly on key arterial routes connecting major cities and popular holiday destinations. Drivers are being advised to brace for long queues and increased journey times, especially during peak periods.
Several specific road sections have been highlighted as potential congestion hotspots. These include stretches of the M25 around London, particularly between junctions 7 and 16, and sections of the M6 in the North West. The A303 near Stonehenge, a notorious choke point, is also expected to see heavy traffic, as are parts of the M4 and M5 leading to the South West of England and Wales. Other areas of concern include the M1, A1, and various routes into coastal areas and national parks.
The anticipated gridlock is attributed to a combination of factors: the bank holiday itself, school holidays in many regions, and a general increase in domestic tourism. Despite rising fuel costs, many Britons are opting for car travel for their Easter breaks. Road users are encouraged to check live traffic updates before and during their journeys, and to consider travelling at off-peak times where possible to mitigate the impact of the expected delays.
Breakdown services are also bracing for a busy weekend, with a likely increase in call-outs due to vehicle faults exacerbated by stop-start traffic conditions. Motorists are reminded to ensure their vehicles are in good working order, with adequate fuel, oil, and tyre pressure, before embarking on long journeys.