Drivers across the UK are being urged to prepare for major delays this late May bank holiday weekend, with motoring organisations warning that traffic levels could reach their highest point since 2024. Congestion is expected to build on key motorway routes from Friday onwards as millions set off for short breaks, shopping trips and family visits.
According to the Royal Automobile Club (RAC) and transport analytics company Inrix, around 19 million leisure journeys are expected to take place between Friday and Monday. Warm weather forecasts, school half-term holidays in parts of England and Wales, and the final round of Premier League fixtures are all expected to increase pressure on the road network.
The busiest travel periods are forecast for Friday and Saturday, with around 3.8 million journeys expected on each day. Another 3.4 million trips are predicted for Sunday, while 3.1 million are expected on bank holiday Monday.
Fuel prices have also continued to rise in recent months. According to RAC data, petrol prices have increased by 26p per litre since February 28, while diesel prices have risen by 44p. Despite this, surveys commissioned by the RAC found that 39 per cent of motorists still intend to travel on motorways or major A-roads during the holiday period.
M25, M5, M1 and M6 Expected to Face the Worst Delays
Traffic monitoring specialists have identified several major routes likely to experience significant congestion across the weekend. According to Inrix, the M25 anticlockwise between Junction 10 and Junction 6 is expected to be among the worst affected roads on Friday afternoon, with delays forecast to peak at around 4:45pm.
The same stretch of motorway is also expected to remain heavily congested on Saturday around lunchtime as holiday traffic combines with regular weekend journeys. Travel times on this section are forecast to more than double during peak periods.
Further disruption is expected on the M5 southbound between Junction 16 near Bristol and Junction 23 at Bridgwater. Inrix warned that queues on this route could reach 45 minutes around midday on Saturday as drivers head towards the South West and Cornwall.
The M1 and M6 are also expected to experience sustained delays throughout the bank holiday period, according to the RAC. Other roads likely to become congested include the M4 routes heading towards Wales, roads serving coastal resorts such as Skegness, and routes leading to airports, ports and national parks.
According to the AA, local roads around shopping centres, retail parks and garden centres may also become busier than usual as many motorists opt for shorter journeys closer to home.
Warm Weather and Football Fixtures Likely to Add Pressure
Motoring groups said a combination of warm weather and major sporting events could create additional traffic hotspots during the weekend. The Met Office has forecast temperatures of up to 28C in London on Friday, which could make it the hottest day of the year so far.
According to the AA, improved weather conditions often encourage spontaneous travel plans and last-minute getaways. Shopping was identified as the most common reason for travel this weekend, followed closely by visits to family and friends.
The final round of Premier League fixtures on Sunday is also expected to increase congestion around stadiums and city centres. The AA warned that football fans, returning holidaymakers and day-trippers could all be travelling at similar times on Sunday afternoon.
Sean Kimberlin, RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader, said motorists should ensure vehicles are “summer ready” before travelling. Drivers have been advised to check oil and coolant levels, tyre pressure and tread depth before setting off on longer journeys.
