Millions of people across Britain have begun their Easter journeys today, filling roads, airports and railway stations as the long bank holiday weekend gets underway. Yet while many families prepare for a well-earned break, millions of workers across the UK will still be on duty – keeping transport networks, hospitals, shops and essential services running.
According to The AA, an estimated 21.7 million journeys are expected to take place across the country today alone, making it the busiest travel day of the Easter weekend.
The figures highlight the scale of the Easter getaway as families set off early to avoid the worst congestion. Traffic experts say this year’s travel surge is likely to make it the busiest Easter on the roads since 2022. However, behind the scenes of this huge movement of people are thousands of workers who will spend the holiday weekend doing their jobs rather than taking time off.
Fuel costs rise but drivers still travel
The Easter rush is taking place despite rising fuel prices across the UK. Motoring organisation RAC reports that diesel prices have climbed sharply following disruption in global oil supply routes.
Average diesel prices have reached 184.2p per litre, representing a 29 per cent increase since tensions affecting tanker routes through the Strait of Hormuz escalated earlier this year.
Petrol prices have also risen significantly, now averaging 153.7p per litre, an increase of around 16 per cent over the same period.
Despite these costs, millions of people are still travelling. For many workers and families, the Easter break bank holiday offers an opportunity to visit relatives or take a short holiday after what has been a long winter.
Survey data suggests most journeys will be relatively short, with 53 per cent of drivers travelling less than 50 miles. Only a small proportion expect to travel more than 100 miles.
Roads expected to remain busy throughout the weekend
Traffic levels are expected to remain high throughout the Easter period.
While today Thursday, is predicted to see the highest number of journeys overall, traffic is also expected to remain heavy during the bank holiday itself.
Forecasts suggest:
- Good Friday: approximately 19.6 million journeys
- Easter Saturday: around 20.3 million journeys
- Easter Sunday: roughly 18.9 million journeys
- Easter Monday: approximately 18.9 million journeys as travellers return home
Key congestion hotspots are expected on several major routes including the M6 through Birmingham, the M25 between the M23 and M40, the M5 near Bristol, the A303 in Wiltshire, and the M4 across South Wales.
In London, road users are also being affected by essential maintenance works. Transport for London has closed sections of the A40 Westway between the Westway roundabout and the Marylebone flyover during the Easter period.
Meanwhile in the Midlands, the A38 will be closed for HS2 works between Swinfen Interchange and Hilliard’s Cross until early April.
Rail disruption during major upgrade works
Drivers are not the only travellers facing disruption this Easter. Thousands of rail journeys are also being affected as Network Rail carries out more than 270 engineering projects across the country.
The most significant project is a six-day shutdown of the West Coast Main Line, one of Britain’s most important rail routes.
Engineering teams will use the quieter bank holiday period to carry out track improvements and infrastructure upgrades designed to improve reliability for passengers in the long term.
Weather warnings add further pressure
Travel conditions could also be affected by the weather this weekend.
The Met Office has warned that parts of northern England and Scotland may experience winds reaching up to 90mph, which could cause disruption to road and rail travel.
Strong winds can increase the risk of delays, particularly on exposed motorways and rail lines.
Spare a thought for workers on duty
While millions of people enjoy time away over Easter, many workers will spend the bank holiday weekend working.
Healthcare staff, emergency services personnel, transport workers, delivery drivers, hospitality staff and retail employees will all continue providing essential services across the country.
For many of these workers, the Easter period is one of the busiest times of the year.
At The Workers Union, we recognise the dedication of those who keep the country moving while others take a break. Their work ensures that travel continues, services remain open and communities stay supported throughout the holiday weekend.
As millions set off on Easter journeys, it is worth remembering the workers whose efforts make the long weekend possible.
