Millions of travelers in the UK are bracing for significant disruptions to their Easter travel plans this weekend, as a combination of major rail engineering works, strike action, heavy traffic, and potential flooding is set to affect journeys across the country.
Starting from Good Friday, April 18, 2025, and running through Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, over 300 engineering projects will be undertaken by Network Rail. These works are aimed at renewing overhead electric lines and improving drainage, particularly affecting routes serving London Euston. No trains will run to or from Milton Keynes on Saturday and Sunday, creating a ripple effect of delays and cancellations.
In addition to the rail disruptions, Gatwick Airport, the UK's second busiest airport, will see more than 100 members of the Unite union strike over pensions and pay disputes. The strike will involve baggage handlers, check-in staff, and flight dispatchers for airlines including Norwegian and Delta, starting on Good Friday and lasting until Tuesday, April 22, 2025. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham stated, "Workers have had enough of Red Handling playing fast and loose with their retirement plans and waiting weeks for pay they are rightfully owed for their hard work." This industrial action is expected to lead to long queues at check-in and potential flight delays or cancellations.
As travelers flock to the roads, the AA estimates that nearly 20 million people will drive on Good Friday alone, with similar numbers expected throughout the weekend. Traffic hotspots are anticipated on the M6 in Birmingham, near Blackpool, and along the M25 and M5 corridors. National Highways has lifted roadworks from over 1,100 miles of motorway and major A roads, with 97.5% of its network now clear of traffic cones. However, RAC spokesperson Alice Simpson warned of potential "big jams," especially if the weather improves, encouraging drivers to plan ahead.
The Met Office has forecast "changeable weather for many," with warnings of heavy rain in parts of south-west England, South Wales, and Northern Ireland, raising concerns about possible flooding. This could further complicate travel plans, particularly for those heading out for day trips or long weekends. Simpson remarked, "It’s vital to plan ahead and be prepared for trips to take longer because of the wet weather and the expected getaway congestion." An estimated 6.2 million people remain undecided about their travel plans, meaning any sign of sun could lead to increased congestion.
At the Port of Dover, queues have already begun forming as travelers aim to escape for the long weekend. The port has reported "extended processing times" at Border Control, with waits of around 40 minutes both before the border and at the P&O Ferries check-in. Approximately 2.2 million Britons are expected to head overseas during the holiday, with Good Friday anticipated to be the busiest day for outbound travel. A total of 11,282 flights are scheduled to depart UK airports over the four-day period, with popular destinations including Dublin, Amsterdam, Malaga, Alicante, and Mallorca.
Despite the disruptions, tourism authority VisitEngland estimates that around 10.6 million British adults are planning to take holidays in the UK during the bank holiday period. However, travelers are urged to check their journeys in advance, as significant engineering works will impact services across the rail network. Helen Hamlin, Network Rail’s director of system operations, emphasized the importance of planning: "The vast majority of the rail network will be open as usual for people wanting to travel over the Easter bank holiday, but there will be changes to services in some areas so we’re asking passengers to plan ahead and check before they travel."
In summary, the combination of rail engineering works, strike action at Gatwick Airport, and heavy traffic is poised to create a challenging travel environment for millions this Easter weekend. Travelers are advised to remain vigilant and flexible, keeping a close eye on updates from transport providers and preparing for potential delays.
