Top 10 Most Stressful Roundabouts in Croydon (and How to Master Them)
By Drive Croydon Driving School
Learning to drive in London can be exciting, but it also comes with unique challenges. For many learner drivers, one of the biggest fears on the road is not traffic lights or speed limits – it’s roundabouts. From small mini-roundabouts to giant multi-exit junctions, Croydon is full of them.
At Drive Croydon, we understand that fear can block real progress. That’s why our instructors focus not only on teaching safe driving techniques but also on building your confidence. Whether you’re taking automatic driving lessons or manual driving lessons, we make sure you feel comfortable, supported, and ready to face even the trickiest junctions.
Why Roundabouts Cause Stress for Learners
- They often look confusing on road signs.
- Multiple lanes and unclear markings can overwhelm beginners.
- Heavy traffic during rush hours makes it hard to find a safe gap.
- Drivers around you may not always follow the rules.
Fear is natural – but with proper guidance, you’ll learn that roundabouts are not monsters, just another skill to master.
Top 10 Most Stressful Roundabouts in Croydon
1. Lombard Roundabout
Considered one of the worst in London and monitored by TfL. Many drivers joke it’s safer to call a tow truck than face it.
2. Fairfield Halls Roundabout
Too many exits and lanes – it’s easy to circle around multiple times before spotting the right one.
3. Gravel Hill Roundabout
At rush hour, you may wait a long time for a safe gap in traffic. Patience is essential here.
4. Thornton Heath Pond Roundabout
No pond in sight – just bus lanes and confusing markings that puzzle new drivers.
5. Selsdon Road Mini-Roundabout
Small but sneaky. Some drivers cut straight across it instead of going around.
6. Croydon Fire Station Roundabout
With unclear lane markings and fire engines rushing out, it can quickly overwhelm learners.
7. Coulsdon Bypass Roundabout
Looks simple but often treated like a racetrack by drivers heading to the M25.
8. Fiveways Junction
Not a roundabout, but a nightmare anyway – too many lanes, lights, and confused drivers stopping mid-junction.
9. Purley Cross
Expect traffic jams. Even after leaving the roundabout, Brighton Road can keep you stuck for ages.
10. The Island Roundabout (Wellesley Road)
A so-called roundabout where you circle buildings instead of a proper island. Many ask: “what even is this?”
How Drive Croydon Helps You Master Roundabouts
At Drive Croydon driving school, we don’t just teach you how to drive – we teach you how to drive with confidence. Our local knowledge means we know every tricky roundabout, junction, and road in Croydon.
- Automatic driving lessons – perfect if you want less stress and no clutch control.
- Manual driving lessons – ideal if you want full control and flexibility with your licence.
- Tailored instruction – we focus on your pace, your fears, and your progress.
With our supportive instructors, you’ll not only survive Croydon’s roundabouts – you’ll master them.
Book Your Driving Lessons in Croydon
If you’re ready to overcome your fears and become a confident driver, get in touch with Drive Croydon today.
Call us now: +44 7700 900123
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