Motorists are being urged to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys as hundreds of thousands of fans head to Silverstone for this week's Formula 1 British Grand Prix.

National Highways has warned drivers to expect heavy traffic throughout the four-day event, with up to 570,000 people expected to attend the Northamptonshire circuit between Thursday, July 2 and Sunday, July 5.

The busiest periods are expected over the weekend, when temporary traffic management measures will be in place to help manage the flow of vehicles.

A one-way system will operate on the A43 between the Towcester Relief Road roundabout and the B4525 interchange near Syresham on Saturday and Sunday, with the arrangement available as a contingency on Friday if needed.

National Highways has warned drivers to expect heavy traffic throughout the four-day event, with up to 570,000 people expected to attend the Northamptonshire circuit between Thursday, July 2 and Sunday, July 5.

placeholder image — National Highways has warned drivers to expect heavy traffic throughout the four-day event, with up to 570,000 people expected to attend the Northamptonshire circuit between Thursday, July 2 and Sunday, July 5.

Traffic will be directed towards the circuit between 5am and 3pm before reversing direction from 3pm until 11pm to help visitors leave the venue.

Dadford Road between Silverstone village and the circuit will also operate as a one-way route during busy periods.

National Highways is advising anyone travelling to the Grand Prix to follow the directions on their event parking pass and the official roadside signage from the M1 and M40, rather than relying on sat-navs or online mapping services.

Luke Thrussell, senior network planner at National Highways, said: "The British Grand Prix is always well attended and residents nearby should expect some delays throughout the four-day event, especially during peak travel times on the weekend as people arrive for the start in the mornings and depart at the end of the day.

"Anybody heading to Silverstone should make sure they leave plenty of time for their trip and we would advise anyone else to avoid the area if possible."

Drivers are also being reminded to prepare before setting off by checking fuel or battery charge levels, inspecting tyres and lights, planning their route and carrying essentials such as water, snacks and a phone charger in case of delays.

Travel information, parking details and spectator guidance are available on the Silverstone website: https://www.silverstone.co.uk/events/formula-1-british-grand-prix/getting-here

Live traffic updates throughout the event will be available via National Highways.