What’s different about UK driving compared to Australia?

Roads: The Space Factor

One of the first things Australian drivers notice in the UK is how narrow the roads are. Many UK roads, particularly in older towns and villages, were designed long before cars existed. As a result:

• Country lanes can be extremely tight, often with hedges or stone walls instead of a nice, wide shoulder.
• City streets can feel cramped, especially when parked cars line both sides of the road.
• Roundabouts are everywhere - far more common than in Australia.

In contrast, Australian roads tend to be wide and open, with plenty of space to manoeuvre. In the UK, expect to do a lot more squeezing through gaps and pulling into passing places when driving on rural roads.

Speed Limits: Less Straightforward Than You’d Think

Speed limits in the UK might seem familiar at first glance, but there are a few key differences from Australia. For instance:

• Motorways in the UK have a standard speed limit of 70 mph (112 km/h), whereas many Australian highways allow speeds up to 110 km/h or higher.
• In urban areas, the UK often has 20 mph (32 km/h) zones in residential or school areas, which can be much lower than Australian equivalents.
• Speed cameras are everywhere in the UK, and many areas use average speed cameras rather than single-location enforcement.

Unlike the long, straight highways of Australia, UK roads frequently twist and turn, meaning speed limits can change quite suddenly. Pay close attention to road signs to avoid unintended speeding fines.

Roundabouts: The UK’s Favourite Road Feature

If you think Australia has a fair few roundabouts, just wait until you drive in the UK. British roads are filled with them, from tiny single-lane ones in villages to enormous multi-lane nightmares in city centres.

Things to remember about UK roundabouts:

• Give way to traffic coming from the right.
• Many roundabouts have multiple lanes, so knowing which one to be in is the key factor.
• Some roundabouts even have traffic lights within them - just to make things more exciting.

If you’re coming from an area in Australia with minimal roundabout experience, practising a few before hitting busy city streets might be wise.

Weather and Driving Conditions

In Australia, the biggest driving hazards are often extreme heat, bushfires, and the occasional flash flood. In the UK, it’s a different story:

• Rain: It’s no secret that the UK gets a lot of it. Wet roads can be slippery, and heavy rain can cause standing water and flooding.
• Fog: Common in rural areas, particularly in autumn and winter.
• Snow and Ice: If you’re driving in winter, be prepared for ice-covered roads and occasional snowfall.

UK drivers are used to exploring in all kinds of weather, so it’s worth keeping a close eye on forecasts and adjusting your driving style accordingly.

Parking: A Whole New Challenge

Parking in UK cities can be a test of patience and skill. Unlike Australia, where parking spaces are generally large and plentiful, in the UK:

• Street parking is often tight, requiring careful manoeuvring.
• Many residential areas use permit parking, meaning you’ll need a special pass to park there.
• Car parks (or multi-storeys) can have narrow spaces, making getting in and out a bit tricky.

If you’re driving in a busy city like London or Manchester, public transport might be a better option than dealing with the stress of eyeing up a parking spot.

Driving in London: A World of Its Own

Driving in most UK cities is a different experience from Australia, but London takes it to another level. Some key differences include:

• The Congestion Charge: Driving in central London requires paying a daily fee.
• Bus lanes are strictly enforced, and using one at the wrong time can result in a fine.
• Traffic is heavy, roads can be confusing, and cyclists are everywhere.

If you’re not used to driving in high-density traffic, using public transport in London might be a more relaxed way to get around.

Do You Need Temporary Insurance?

If you’re visiting the UK and borrowing a car, you’ll need to ensure you’re properly insured before getting behind the wheel. If the car owner’s policy doesn’t cover you, temporary insurance may be a flexible way to stay legally protected.

Short-term insurance may be useful for:

• Borrowing a friend or family member’s car for a few days.
• Driving in the UK as a visitor.
• Ensuring you have the correct level of cover without affecting the owner’s policy.

Checking what’s required before you drive can help avoid potential legal issues.

Last Words:

Driving in the UK compared to Australia comes with several key differences, from road sizes and speed limits to parking and weather drawbacks. Whether you’re visiting for a short time or staying longer, understanding the road rules and ensuring you’re insured could help make your journey smoother.

Need Temporary Cover Whilst Driving in the UK?

If you’re planning to drive a borrowed car whilst in the UK, make sure you have the right insurance in place. Click here to read all the details and get a quote..