RAC issue full list of UK motorways to be hit by ‘critical traffic hotspot’ this weekend

'It's set to be the busiest late May bank holiday since 2024'

07:32, 21 May 2026

Bank holiday traffic on the M6 motorway through Cheshire.(Image: Getty)

Motorists are being warned to brace for severe congestion on major routes this bank holiday weekend as an estimated 19 million trips threaten to clog the UK's road network.

Despite a sharp spike in fuel prices[1] driven by the ongoing Middle East conflict[2], the late May bank holiday[3] is projected to see a significant surge in getaway traffic - marking an increase of one million journeys compared to last year.

According to data from transport analytics company Inrix and the RAC, Friday and Saturday will bear the brunt of the congestion, with 3.8 million drivers expected to take to the roads each day. Another 3.4 million journeys are projected for Sunday, followed by 3.1 million on Monday.

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Experts have identified several critical traffic hotspots where severe delays are expected:

• M25 (Anticlockwise, J10 to J6): Expected to see peak gridlock around 4:45 PM on Friday as commuter and holiday traffic merge.

  A second major spike is predicted for lunchtime on Saturday, with travel times expected to more than double.

• M5 (Southbound, J16 to J23): Midday on Saturday will see massive bottlenecking near Bristol and Bridgwater, with queues estimated to reach at least 45 minutes.
• M1 and M6: Both major arteries are expected to face sustained, heavy delays throughout the weekend.

The mass exodus comes despite substantial financial pressure at the pumps. Following the onset of the Iran oil crisis on February 28, the average price of a litre of petrol has risen by 26p, while diesel has jumped by 44p.

An RAC-commissioned survey of 2,218 motorists indicated that 39% still plan to use motorways or major A-roads regardless of the costs.

"Our research shows it's set to be the busiest late May bank holiday since 2024," said Sean Kimberlin, RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader. "Even though fuel prices remain uncomfortably high, it takes a lot to stop drivers taking to the roads to make the most of a long weekend."

The AA reports that shopping and visiting family are the primary drivers behind this weekend's travel. However, two additional factors are expected to exacerbate gridlock.

One is the final day of the Premier League[5] season, which takes place on Sunday.

Extra congestion is expected around major football stadiums as a result.

The second factor is the record-breaking heat[6]. The Met Office[7] has forecast temperatures hitting 28?C in London[8] on Friday, likely making it the hottest day of the year so far.

AA spokespeople noted that the sudden spell of warm weather[9] is "exactly the kind of forecast that gets people thinking about a last-minute getaway".

In light of the high temperatures and prolonged gridlock, the RAC is urging motorists to ensure their vehicles are "summer ready" before setting off.

Drivers are advised to perform vital safety checks on oil and coolant levels, inspect tyre tread, and verify that tyre pressure is correctly adjusted for heavy holiday loads.

References

1. ^ fuel prices (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
2. ^ Middle East conflict (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
3. ^ bank holiday (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
4. ^ Click here (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
5. ^ Premier League (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
6. ^ record-breaking heat (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
7. ^ The Met Office (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
8. ^ London (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
9. ^ weather (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)