So, you’ve decided to take a little jaunt around the UK—brilliant idea! Just remember: in the UK, driving on the left is as much a tradition as having questionable weather and a cuppa at 4 PM. It might sound slightly bonkers to those from the right-driving camp, but let’s be honest: it adds a certain charm to the experience. I mean, who doesn’t enjoy a bit of controlled chaos, eh?
I’ll admit, when I first tumbled into a rented car after flying in from the good ol’ US of A, my heart raced with a mix of excitement and sheer terror. "Drive on the left!" I repeated to myself like a mantra. It was pretty jarring to see the driver’s seat on the right, and the rest of the world just kind of flipped upside down. My first stop? The picturesque streets of Bath.
Can we take a moment to appreciate Bath? Gorgeous Georgian architecture and hot springs, a sight for sore eyes after the seatbelt-induced tension of avoiding oncoming traffic. (And let’s not forget the fact that parking can be a blood sport—seriously, it feels like a test of wit and will just to find a suitable spot.)
And what’s the deal with roundabouts, you ask? Honestly, they put my head in a spin. At first, I thought they were designed to confuse the tourists, sort of like a massive game of "round and round we go." But no, they’re an efficient way to manage traffic. Just don’t be the one to miss your exit—nothing screams “newbie” louder.
Driving on the left has quite the historic backdrop. Apparently, back in medieval times, people preferred riding on the left side of the road to keep their sword arm free on the right. It’s a bit like saying, “Excuse me, I’d love to not get mugged, so let’s keep this flow going.” Weirdly enough, in the 18th century, carts started being pulled on the left as well. Why? To make sure the driver could keep a firm grip on the reins with their dominant hand.
Of course, the French had other ideas and flipped the script with the Revolution. But here in merry old England, we clung to tradition like a stubborn horse at a show jumping event.
Driving around, you’ll stumble upon some of the quirkiest roads. Ever had a drive on a ‘single track road’? Good luck, mate! These narrow lanes are a true test of patience—think sheep, small cars, and a lot of reversing while waving apologetically to the driver coming the other way. Oh, the fun!
Don’t miss the quirky sites along the way. Picture this: a random sign for the "World’s Largest Potato." (Yes, it exists!) Can you imagine the conversations? "Oh, I saw Big Ben." "Well, I saw a potato bigger than your mum’s Sunday roast!" A little slice of British humour right there. You can find that potato down in the Lake District if you’re in the mood for a cheeky photo op.
By the way, if you’re driving through Yorkshire, I greatly recommend stopping at a local café and indulging in a slice of Yorkshire Parkin—let me warn you, though, it’s an absolute heartbreaker when you realize it was better than the last three cakes you tried. How can something so deliciously gooey exist? Speaking of woes, sometimes you’ll need to brace yourself for a cup of tea that makes you question how anyone could get it so wrong. One time, I had this brew that tasted like, let’s say, an old boot. Not the best!
Now, here’s my confession: I’ve nearly ended up in a ditch more times than I care to admit—thanks to trying to manage the GPS while keeping one eye on the road and another on a particularly charming sheep who was having a staring contest with me. Spoiler: the sheep wins every time. It’s all too easy to get distracted, especially when the countryside looks like something out of a postcard.
Then there’s the matter of speed limits. Nothing like the adrenaline rush of trying to decipher a speed limit while dodging angry locals who somehow seem to have a sixth sense when it comes to spotting tourists. Just remember, it’s always “miles per hour” not “pints of bitter”—so keep your wits about you!
Okay, let’s chat about the signs. You’ve got standard ones and then you’ve got the quirky ones that will definitely catch your eye. Like urging a driver to beware of “Caution: Loose Cattle.” What a suited warning! I mean, if I was a farmer, I’d probably want to advertise my wobbling herd around too.
Although I never spotted one myself, I did read about the infamous “Beware of the Bull” signs in rural areas. Imagine casually driving along, admiring the English countryside, only to come face-to-face with a massive bull looking rather disgruntled. It’s not exactly the holiday postcard moment you’d want to get caught up in.
While we’re on the subject of odd encounters, can we talk about the time I strolled through a quaint village and literally stumbled into a pottery-making competition? They made a big fuss about the jugs—"Blimey, what a sight!" It was one of the most random yet charming things I’ve witnessed during my escapade through UK roads.
Driving on the left, braving roundabouts, and engaging in cheeky encounters with sheep and loose cattle—it’s all part of the British road experience and adds layers to your travel. It’s about embracing the chaos and finding joy in the unexpected. You never really know what quirky sight or wonderful local moment awaits you just around the corner.
So, I say, if you’re ever tempted to drive through the UK, do it! Just prepare yourself to flip your brain around and enjoy the ride. Don’t get too stressed over your fumbling attempts to change gears with your left hand, or locking eyes with a bewildered sheep.
What’s your craziest driving experience abroad? Have you ever felt completely out of your depth like I did? I’d love to hear your stories!
