Britain's drivers were today warned to expect chaos and long delays during the late May bank holiday weekend with 20million cars set to hit the roads each day.

Congestion is likely to be localised around attractions, retail parks, town centres and coastal areas - with half of journeys set to be under 50 miles, according to The AA.

The busiest day will be Friday when commuter traffic combines with leisure travel as many families head off to enjoy the May half-term holidays after schools break up.

Some 20.6million journeys are anticipated to be made in the UK on Friday, then 19.6million on Saturday and 19.3million on each on Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday.

The AA has issued an 'amber traffic warning' to alert drivers to high congestion on the roads, adding: 'Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination.'