Travel Disrupted by Yellow Fog Warning in UK: Expect Delays for Tourists and Locals Across the Country

Published on November 23, 2025

The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for dense fog across several areas of the UK, which is expected to significantly disrupt travel and tourism. The nine-hour fog warning will be in effect from Saturday night through to Sunday morning, with conditions likely to cause delays and cancellations across multiple transport sectors. This fog advisory, while part of the regular weather forecasting, has become a key point of concern for anyone planning travel, particularly tourists visiting the UK during this period.

The yellow warning indicates that fog patches will develop across a wide area on Saturday night, intensifying into dense fog by early Sunday morning. As visibility is reduced, travel conditions will become difficult, especially for road, rail, and air transport. Although visibility is expected to improve from west to east overnight, with the fog clearing from most areas by dawn on Sunday, the initial impact will still cause significant disruption.

Impact on Road Travel and Transport Services

For those planning to drive or travel by car during this period, the Met Office has warned of slower journey times and potentially hazardous conditions. Dense fog reduces visibility, making it harder for drivers to navigate, increasing the risk of accidents. For anyone planning on road trips, it’s important to allow extra time for travel, be prepared for delays, and exercise extreme caution.

Bus and train services are also expected to experience delays, with the Met Office specifically noting that transport services could be affected as fog patches become dense. Passengers should anticipate slower travel times and check for updates before setting off, particularly for those planning to travel in the evening or early morning hours. Commuters in cities and rural areas alike should expect reduced visibility, which may cause delays in reaching their destinations.

Flight Disruptions and Airport Delays

Air travel is another sector that will be affected by the dense fog. The Met Office has highlighted the possibility of flight cancellations due to low visibility. Passengers are advised to check with airlines for updates on flight schedules, as the fog could lead to significant delays or cancellations at airports. The most affected airports are likely to be those in areas with particularly dense fog, leading to travel disruptions across both domestic and international flights.

In past instances, thick fog at major airports has resulted in dozens of cancellations, particularly during busy travel seasons, like December. Tourists and travellers should remain flexible with their travel plans and keep an eye on weather updates to avoid last-minute surprises.

Tourism Disruption: Affected Sightseeing and Attractions

The fog warning will also have an impact on tourism activities, particularly for those planning sightseeing trips or scenic tours. Many tourists visit the UK to enjoy outdoor attractions and landmarks, but with fog reducing visibility, outdoor experiences may be hindered. Iconic viewpoints and scenic drives are likely to be obscured, reducing the appeal of certain tourist activities.

In addition to scenic spots, transport hubs and busy city areas will experience slower traffic, making it more difficult for tourists to travel between attractions or to reach airports and stations on time. Visitors should be prepared for potential delays and reconsider outdoor sightseeing during foggy periods. Indoor activities, such as visiting museums, galleries, and indoor attractions, might be better options during these conditions.

Accommodation bookings could be affected as well. Some visitors may choose to extend their stays or delay departures, while others may cancel or reschedule plans depending on transport availability. This shift could lead to increased bookings in some regions, particularly in hotels close to major transport hubs where tourists may opt to stay longer to wait out the fog.

Health and Safety Risks for Travelers

For all travelers, dense fog can pose health and safety risks. Reduced visibility on the roads increases the likelihood of accidents, which is especially concerning for drivers and pedestrians alike. The Met Office has issued a clear warning that severe disruption can occur when visibility falls below 50 meters. Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists, particularly in urban areas, are also at risk due to the difficulty of seeing vehicles and other obstacles in low-visibility conditions.

For travelers arriving or departing from airports and railway stations, delays can lead to fatigue, missed connections, and heightened stress. With potential for long waits and congestion, passengers may find the travel experience more tiring and frustrating than usual. Tourism operators, including coach and bus tour companies, should be prepared to offer alternative indoor activities or reschedule high-risk segments until the fog clears.

Regional Focus: Areas Most Affected by Fog

The warning applies primarily to regions such as the East Midlands, North East, North West England, West Midlands, and Yorkshire & Humber. These areas are expected to see the densest fog, making travel more difficult. Tourists planning to visit these regions should be aware of the conditions, check transport updates regularly, and consider adjusting their travel times accordingly.

The fog is expected to affect not only travel within cities but also connections between regions. Given that the fog is expected to clear from west to east, those in the western parts of the UK will likely see improvements in visibility earlier than those in the eastern regions.

What Travelers and Operators Should Do

Travelers are advised to check road, rail, and flight updates ahead of time, especially if they are planning to travel during the evening or early morning hours. They should be prepared for longer travel times and potential delays and should plan for additional time to reach their destinations. Those with flexible itineraries may want to consider adjusting their schedules to avoid traveling during peak fog times.

For tourism operators, clear communication with guests is key. It is essential to inform travelers about possible delays and to offer alternatives, such as indoor activities or rescheduling tours for a later time. Hotels, especially those near transport hubs, should be ready to accommodate guests who may need to extend their stays due to travel delays.

Conclusion: Navigating Foggy Conditions

The yellow fog warning issued by the Met Office highlights the challenges that tourists and travelers will face in the UK during this period. While the fog is not expected to last indefinitely, it will cause significant disruptions in travel, especially for those relying on road, rail, and air transport. Tourists should prepare for slower journey times, potential cancellations, and altered sightseeing plans, while travel and tourism operators must adapt to ensure the safety and satisfaction of their customers.