Millions of drivers will be on Britain’s roads over the Easter bank holiday, and many could find forecourts operating unusual hours. Before you set off, check your planned petrol station’s opening times to avoid empty tanks or long detours.
What to expect on the roads this Easter: travel numbers and fuel costs
Analysts estimate around 21 million car journeys will take place between Thursday, April 2, and Easter Monday. That surge will put pressure on key routes and local forecourts.
Fuel prices are already high. The RAC reports an average petrol price of 153.68p per litre, while diesel sits at about £1.84 per litre. Global oil markets, with Brent crude trading above $100, are a major factor behind the rise.
How major supermarket forecourts are handling Easter opening times
Large supermarket chains vary in how their petrol stations will trade. Drivers should check each retailer’s store locator before travelling.
Asda petrol stations
- Most large Asda stores, including many forecourts, will be closed on Easter Sunday.
- Smaller convenience forecourts are expected to remain open across the bank holiday.
- Confirm times at the Asda website for the exact location you plan to use.
Morrisons forecourts and recent changes
- Morrisons petrol stations plan to operate at their normal opening hours over the long weekend.
- Drivers can use the Motor Fuel Group (MFG) store locator to check individual sites.
- MFG completed the purchase of 337 Morrisons petrol stations and 400 sites intended for ultra-rapid electric charging in April 2024.
Sainsbury’s service stations and opening windows
- Large Sainsbury’s stores are set to open 7am–11pm on Good Friday and Easter Saturday.
- On Easter Monday, large stores will operate 8am–8pm.
- All Sainsbury’s stores in England, Northern Ireland and Wales will be closed on Easter Sunday.
- Convenience branches will keep standard hours on all days except Easter Sunday.
Tesco and Shell: check before you fill up
- Tesco petrol station hours are likely to vary by location. Use Tesco’s store finder to verify local times.
- Shell expects most company-owned sites to trade normally, but some forecourts are independent.
- Independent sites may change hours, so always consult the Shell UK store locator or the station directly.
Practical tips for drivers planning Easter journeys
- Plan fuel stops in advance and note at least two possible forecourts on your route.
- Check live opening hours on supermarket and fuel brand websites before departure.
- Allow extra travel time for traffic and possible detours around busy petrol stations.
- Consider refuelling before peak travel days to avoid queues and price spikes.
Recent transport and fuel-related developments to watch
- New car tax rules may affect savings for owners of certain models.
- Experts warn of further rises in petrol and diesel prices following recent monthly increases.
- Traffic incidents, such as motorway closures, can add hours to journeys and increase demand at nearby forecourts.
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Naomi is a clean beauty expert passionate about science-driven skincare and natural remedies. She demystifies ingredients and shares routines that empower readers to glow — naturally.