Glastonbury Driving Warning: Avoid These Costly Fines Up to £12,000

Thousands of festivalgoers are heading to Glastonbury this week for one of the most anticipated events of the year. But if you're planning to drive there, experts have issued a serious warning: failing to follow certain driving rules could lead to fines as high as £12,000.

Motoring experts, including those from Halfords, have outlined a number of common mistakes drivers make and how to avoid them — from overloading your car to blasting music or using your phone for directions. Here's a full breakdown of what to watch out for:

1. Packing Too Much – Fines up to £300

Festival-goers often overpack, cramming in tents, backpacks, and extra gear. But overloading your vehicle doesn’t just reduce comfort — it could cost you.

• Overloading your car by as little as 10% over its Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) could result in a £100 fine.

• Exceeding the weight by 15% may push the fine up to £300.

• Additionally, if your bags block the driver’s view or mirrors, that could result in a £100 fine.

Tip: Check your car’s owner manual for the MAM and pack only essentials. Make sure nothing obstructs visibility inside the vehicle.

2. Loud Music – Fines up to £5,000

Bringing festival vibes into the car with loud music may seem fun, but it’s risky:

• Excessively loud music can result in a £100 fine and 3 points on your licence.

• In more serious cases, where loud music is seen as a distraction or prevents you from hearing traffic, fines can soar up to £5,000.

Tip: Keep music volume moderate so you can still hear your surroundings. Save the loud beats for when you reach the festival grounds.

3. Using Your Phone for Directions – Fines up to £1,000

Tempted to quickly check your phone while navigating unfamiliar roads? Think again.

• Using your phone while driving can land you a £200 fine and 6 penalty points.

• In severe cases, you may face a £1,000 fine, a court appearance, or even a driving ban.

Tip: Let a passenger handle navigation duties. If you’re driving alone, pull over safely before checking your phone. Investing in a Sat Nav is also a smart move — especially since mobile signals often drop near festival sites.

4. Not Wearing a Seatbelt – Fines up to £500

Even on short trips, not wearing a seatbelt is illegal and dangerous.

• Squeezing into a packed car may tempt passengers to skip seatbelts, especially in the back.

• Failing to wear one can lead to a £500 fine.

Tip: Make sure all passengers are buckled up, regardless of how crowded the car is.

5. Skipping Vehicle Maintenance – Risk of Breakdown

Traffic delays, slow-moving queues, and long distances can put serious strain on your car. If your vehicle isn’t in good shape, it might not make it to the festival.

Tip: Before setting off, check your engine oil, coolant levels, brake fluid, tyre pressure, and fuel. A quick check-up can save you from a stressful and costly breakdown.

6. Driving Under the Influence – Fines up to £5,000 and Criminal Charges

Getting into the party mood too early can have major consequences.

• Being caught driving under the influence comes with severe penalties: a minimum 12-month driving ban, a £5,000 fine, six months in prison, and a criminal record.

• Even if you haven’t had a drink the day you drive, alcohol can stay in your system for up to 12 hours after drinking.

Avoid alcohol before and during your journey. If you're leaving the festival the morning after drinking, make sure enough time has passed and you're fully sober.