As tens of thousands prepare to attend the world-renowned Glastonbury Festival this weekend, drivers are being strongly advised to plan their journeys in advance. With headline acts like The 1975, Neil Young, and Olivia Rodrigo gracing the Pyramid Stage, the event is set to draw massive crowds.
National Highways warns that major roads in the area will experience severe congestion from Wednesday, June 25, through to Friday, June 27, as festival-goers make their way to Worthy Farm. The primary routes affected include motorways and key A roads leading to the festival site. Pilton, located five miles outside Glastonbury, generally sees minimal town traffic impact; however, traffic around junctions 23 and 25 of the M5 and the A303 is expected to peak on Wednesday.
Historically, the A39 experiences significant congestion by mid-morning as drivers approach the site. On Monday, June 30, heavy traffic is also anticipated as attendees depart. Festival traffic primarily uses the M5, exiting at junction 23 before taking the A39 and A361, while arrivals from London follow the A303-A37 route, with the A303 eastbound near Podimore Roundabout expected to be particularly busy.
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Kathryn Wiltshire, National Highways’ Resilience Planner for the South West, emphasized the importance of preparation: “With around 200,000 people expected to attend this year, we’re reminding all road users to plan ahead. Our goal is to keep the network operating safely and efficiently while keeping everyone informed.”
She advises drivers to check travel updates regularly, set off early, and allow ample time to reach their destinations. Given the warm weather forecast, motorists should also ensure their vehicles are in good condition—checking oil, fuel, coolant levels, and tyre pressures—and carry sufficient drinking water to stay hydrated during the journey.
To support safe travel, National Highways recommends using its TRIP checklist, which focuses on four essential principles to ensure a smooth and secure trip. As part of their safety campaign, drivers are encouraged to take regular breaks—at least 15 minutes every two hours—to combat fatigue.
Kathryn added, “Tyre problems and empty fuel tanks remain leading causes of breakdowns, and we want everyone to avoid the stress of being stranded. With rising temperatures, staying hydrated and prepared is critical for a safe journey.”
The TRIP checklist serves as a simple reminder for motorists to take practical steps that make travelling on motorways and major A roads safer and more comfortable during the busy festival period.