What are the travel conditions for the UK Christmas getaway?

The UK is experiencing wet, misty, and rainy conditions, leading to hazardous driving and potential travel delays for millions of motorists.

Are there any rail disruptions during the festive travel period?

Yes, rail operator Cross Country has reported service cancellations and busier services due to a shortage of train drivers.

What is the busiest day for UK Christmas travel?

Christmas Eve is forecasted to be the busiest day for festive journeys, with an estimated 4.2 million car trips expected.

Home / Environment / UK Faces Travel Hurdles: Rain, Mist, and Delays

UK Faces Travel Hurdles: Rain, Mist, and Delays

22 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Over 3.1 million festive journeys are predicted for Monday.
Wet and misty conditions are expected to cause hazardous driving.
Rail operator Cross Country faced service cancellations due to driver shortages.

UK Faces Travel Hurdles: Rain, Mist, and Delays

Motorists are being advised to exercise extreme caution as an estimated 3.1 million festive journeys are predicted for Monday, adding to the ongoing Christmas getaway. Wet and misty conditions are expected across the UK, with heavy rain and showers anticipated in parts of northern England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. The RAC forecasts this period could see the busiest Christmas getaway on record, with up to 37.5 million leisure trips planned between Wednesday and Christmas Eve.

Disruptions were also reported in rail services over the weekend. Cross Country, an inter-city train operator, experienced service cancellations and busier-than-usual conditions, particularly on routes like Manchester to Bournemouth, due to a shortage of train drivers. This, combined with tricky driving conditions on Sunday due to mist, created significant travel challenges for passengers and motorists alike.