The Great British getaway – tens of millions will hit the street this weekend in document street rush
Millions of people are expected to be heading out on the roads as summer holidays begin, with this weekend expected to be the second-busiest since records began in 2016
Millions of Brits are set to hit the road this weekend
Drivers have been told to prepare for the busiest summer weekend in four years as millions are expected to get out and make the most of the heat.
The RAC estimates 14.1 million people will hit the road across the weekend – the second highest number of people since records began. Saturday will see the most journeys made, with an estimated 3.8 million people jumping in the car. Warm weather is expected for at least seven more days, with peaks expected around 27 degrees.
At least one area of the UK has recorded a temperature above 30 degrees every single one of the last 11 days, but some light showers may bring relief to the heatwave.
14.1 million people are expected to hit the road this weekend across the UK
David Hayter, deputy chief meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “The high pressure, which has brought this prolonged fine spell, will continue for the next week or so at least, but will shift enough to enable a more northerly flow that will introduce a cooler feel that will end the run of 30C days.”
Many will be forced to stay closer to home this weekend, as rising costs and travel uncertainty mean almost one-fifth of people are holidaying in the UK this summer.
Polling by YouGov shows an increasing trend of short-haul trips and staycations, which is especially true amongst the millions of parents who will be making the most of summer holidays starting this weekend.
Another study by Halfords found millions skipping going away altogether. The average journey this summer is set to be only 85 miles, with 62 per cent of people admitting rising costs have influenced their decision to stay near home.”
David Howells, camping and travel expert at Halfords, said: “Summer holidays don’t always have to involve a week-long stay somewhere on a plane, but this year we’re seeing a real shift towards people rediscovering what’s on their doorstep.
It is expected one in five people will be holidaying in the UK this summer
He added: “A UK break still delivers that all-important sense of escape, proving you don’t have to travel far or spend big to enjoy a proper holiday.”
A Met Office spokesperson said: “Carry plenty of drinking water for all occupants and stay hydrated, particularly if making long journeys. Allow extra time for journeys, especially with heavy traffic expected, and take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.”
The development comes as temporary VAT cut aimed at reducing prices at family attractions such as zoos and theme parks have come into force.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves unveiled the “Great British Summer Savings” initiative – which kicked off on Thursday – as part of a strategy to alleviate the cost of living impact from the Iran war.
Famous attractions like Peppa Pig World, Alton Towers and Legoland are participating in the scheme. Merlin Entertainments, the owner of 20 venues including Alton Towers and Legoland, has revised its ticket prices to reflect the “summer VAT savings applied”.
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