As millions prepare to embark on their Easter getaways, the roads and railways of Britain are bracing for significant disruptions this weekend. A combination of major rail engineering works, strike actions, heavy traffic, and potential flooding is set to impact travel plans across the nation. With the Easter bank holiday traditionally being one of the busiest times for travel, authorities are urging passengers to plan ahead.
On April 18, 2025, Network Rail announced that over 300 engineering projects would be carried out across the country from Good Friday through Easter Monday. This includes significant work on key routes, particularly those serving London Euston. Notably, no trains will run to or from Milton Keynes on Saturday and Sunday due to ongoing improvements to overhead electric lines and drainage systems. Helen Hamlin, Network Rail’s director of system operations, emphasized the importance of these upgrades, stating, “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 addition to rail disruptions, the roads are expected to be particularly congested. The AA estimates that nearly 20 million people will travel by car on Good Friday alone, with similar numbers expected throughout the weekend. National Highways has lifted roadworks from over 1,100 miles of motorway and major A roads, ensuring that 97.5% of its network is free of traffic cones. However, traffic hotspots are anticipated on the M6 in Birmingham, the M5 at Bristol, and the south and western M25, among other locations.
Adding to the chaos, a crash on the M1 in Hertfordshire caused delays of up to an hour and five miles of congestion on April 18. The incident, which involved a blockage of two of the four northbound lanes between junctions 8 at Hemel Hempstead and 9 at Redbourn, required the response of police, fire services, and ambulance crews. National Highways reported, “Delays of 60 minutes and approximately five miles congestion on approach” to the scene.
Meanwhile, at Gatwick Airport, over 100 members of the Unite union are set to strike across the weekend in a dispute over pensions and pay. This group includes baggage handlers, check-in staff, and flight dispatchers for several airlines, including Norwegian and Delta. Despite the strike, Norwegian has reassured passengers that it anticipates “minimal disruption” to its flights, as handling teams from other European cities will support operations at Gatwick. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham criticized Red Handling for its treatment of workers, stating, “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.”
Travelers heading to the Port of Dover are also facing challenges, with extended processing times reported at Border Control. On Friday morning, a wait of approximately 40 minutes was noted both before the border and at the P&O Ferries check-in. This is likely to add to the frustration for those looking to start their holiday.
As families and individuals prepare for their trips, the weather may also play a role in travel plans. The Met Office has issued warnings for “heavy and possibly even disruptive rain” in parts of south-west England, South Wales, and Northern Ireland on Good Friday. Deputy chief meteorologist Steven Skeates cautioned that flooding could occur in the South West into Saturday, urging drivers to exercise caution in affected areas.
For those flying, a total of 11,282 flights are scheduled to leave UK airports over the Easter weekend, with popular destinations including Dublin, Amsterdam, Malaga, Alicante, and Mallorca. Travel association Abta estimates that around 2.2 million people will head abroad during this period, adding to the overall travel volume.
Despite the numerous disruptions, authorities remain optimistic about the overall travel experience. With significant investments being made in infrastructure and services, including an £86 million investment by Network Rail over the holiday weekend, officials are hopeful that most travelers will be able to reach their destinations without major issues.
As the weekend progresses, ongoing monitoring of traffic conditions and rail services will be crucial. National Highways and local traffic services are actively keeping an eye on the situation, advising drivers to allow extra time for their journeys or seek alternative routes where possible. With the combination of holiday traffic and potential weather-related challenges, travelers are encouraged to stay informed and flexible with their plans.
In summary, as Easter approaches, the combination of rail engineering works, strike actions, heavy road traffic, and inclement weather poses a significant challenge for millions of travelers across Britain. With careful planning and awareness of the potential disruptions, many will hopefully still find a way to enjoy their holiday adventures.
