The British Grand Prix is set to draw in an estimated 480,000 visitors to Silverstone this weekend, and National Highways in the United Kingdom has issued vital travel advice to ensure a smooth journey for all attendees. Fans are urged to meticulously plan their trips and allow ample time for their journeys due to anticipated heavy traffic and special traffic management measures in place.
From Thursday, July 4, to Sunday, July 7, Silverstone will play host to a massive influx of motorsport enthusiasts. National Highways anticipates approximately 480,000 visitors over the four-day event, with the highest concentration of 160,000 fans expected on Sunday, July 7. To manage the surge in traffic, a one-way system will be implemented on the main A43 route between the Abthorpe Roundabout at Towcester and the junction with the B4525 interchange near Syresham on both Saturday and Sunday.
A National Highways spokesperson explained, “As in previous years, a one-way system will be introduced on the main A43 between the Abthorpe Roundabout at Towcester and the junction with the B4525 interchange near Syresham on Saturday and Sunday. From 5 am until around 2 pm on both days, the direction of traffic will be towards the circuit. From approximately 2 pm to 11 pm, it will switch to take people away from the venue. This will be lifted earlier if possible.”
In addition to the one-way system on the A43, Dadford Road leading to Silverstone Circuit will also become one-way on Friday morning, continuing all day on Saturday and Sunday. This measure aims to streamline the flow of vehicles heading to and from the event.
National Highways advises all attendees to follow the designated signs from the M1, M40, and those indicated on their car parking passes rather than relying on GPS systems. Depending on the specific car park assigned, attendees may need to exit the A43 via different slip roads. This will ensure that traffic is distributed efficiently and congestion is minimized.
To facilitate the arrival of fans, gates will open at varying times over the weekend:
* Thursday: Gates open at 11 am.
* Friday and Saturday: Gates open at 7:30 am (7 am for Fast Track ticket holders).
* Sunday: Gates open at 6:30 am (6 am for Fast Track ticket holders).
Due to the significant number of attendees and the early opening times, heavy traffic is expected in the area from Wednesday through to the following Monday. The National Highways will deploy extra traffic officers in the area to manage the increased volume of vehicles. These officers will be on hand to keep traffic flowing and respond quickly to any incidents that may occur. The presence of these additional officers is part of a broader strategy to ensure that the event runs smoothly and that any disruptions are dealt with promptly.
For those not attending the Grand Prix, National Highways recommends avoiding the Silverstone area altogether during this period to prevent unnecessary delays and congestion.
The British Grand Prix is one of the most highly anticipated events in the motorsport calendar, attracting fans from all over the world. With such a large number of visitors expected, National Highways’ detailed traffic management plans and advice are crucial for ensuring that everyone arrives safely and on time. By following the provided guidelines and planning ahead, attendees can focus on enjoying the thrilling race weekend at Silverstone.
