Thanks for commenting on my video!! :) If you're so inclined check out my channel. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Paul Olstad must have been a shock to your system, driving on the roads where the majority of other road users had passed a driving test. Rather than getting one given to you on your sixteenth birthday.
Just let me say - I loved my visit to the UK!! The people were very nice, the country was absolutely beautiful and we plan to go back! But this time I'll know how to drive there much better!
+Git Groove Good to read you had a great holiday in UK, driving on the left (with care) helps make it a memorable experience and for a small nation there is so much to see. To any of my North American cousins, that would like a driving holiday in UK or Ireland, the airport car rentals do have automatic vehicles to book up, a GPS can be bought for around £ 50, enjoy.
And frankly driving on the right hand side (where the drive wheel on the right) is definitely much better than having the drive wheel on the left side. Simply because many people are dominantly right handed and its just feels natural holding the steering wheel with your right hand rather than the left. You just feel more confident holding it with the right hand and shift the gearbox with your left.
So pleased you enjoyed your visit here, just a couuple of little quibbles; driving on the left is not 'the wrong side' in the UK and secondly, our roads, other than the motor ways, were, for the most part, 'laid out' centuries ago. All it needs is patience and good manners - bear in mind, this is a small island.
0:27 "If you don't have a GPS in England you're gonna be screwed". We did survive for many years using road maps and road direction signs before sat-navs came in ya know?
+Phil Smith Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
+Steve King Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
James Slack Correction: All countries with basic logic drive on the right side of the road and only in the UK and some of their ex-slave countries drive on the left
James Slack bullcrap.. most of the world drives on the right... i dunno why the uk drives on the left it really is stupid. However this guy could do with educating himself on pronunciation of Edinburgh. Bit of a simpleton making a meal out of driving a car. it really is not rocket science but this guy is a 'rocket'
Martin H Thats what google is for, google why we drive on the left, and then you will see why we drive on the correct, traditional side untill murica changed it.
He said you must yield to someone "coming in the roundabout". That can sound like "someone coming INTO the roundabout" which would be wrong. The safest rule is "give way to traffic from the right". When you are on the roundabout you have the right of way [but if the traffic is stopped, leave a space for entering traffic to pass through; i.e. don't block the road through.
+Jarl Grimm Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Cell phone, with $12 roam anywhere, it's cheaper to use a North American cell phone (mobile phone) in the UK than renting a GPS in a car, they charge a fortune. Then you get satellite radio too.
+Martin Tabony Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day!
+Martin Tabony Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
If you are just exploring, looking for random stuff, you can't beat B roads. Full of character and history. Always plodding around on them on my motorbike.
The first time I went to the UK my mom drove and we had a GPS, and we made so many mistakes. Got stuck in the rental car parking lot (it was very crowded which is normal) Drove very slow in the fast lane(it is also opposite duh!), got a little close to the curb,GPS led us into a sheep field, but after that I drove in the Uk by myself with no GPS twice since then and had no problem, It doesn't take long to get used to it, and round-abouts are awesome! I'm glad Canada is incorporating them into our roads more and more.
+Sara Richardson Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
+JackSwatman Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Git Groove lol relly it's not that bad once you done a couple of times you just need to be aggressive or you won't get any were. I can't imagine somewhere like new York during rush hour being any better than London
Point of note about A roads for visitors; the fewer digits, the wider and faster the road is more likely to be over its total length. for example, the A1 which runs north-south is usually a dual carriageway (two lanes on each direction, sometimes up to 4 and have a central reservation/median) averaging around 70 mph, with some segments at 50 or 60 though built up areas, whereas a smaller road like the A1307 will be 60 on average with some 40-50 parts and mostly single carriageway (one lane in each direction). To add further confusion, some A roads will have an 'M' designation where motorway rules apply for a section (e.g. no stopping).
Why am I watching this? I'm British for the Queen's sake! Guess I best be off to make my tea and crumpets! (Yes, I am reinforcing stereotypes here, no, I don't care, yes, I am actually British).
+Mo Mew Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Mo Mew Many Brits mispronounce American words also if you must know. It's funny to hear an Englishman say "Chickago or Mitchigan" when they visit the USA.
I'm English, I've never heard anybody pronounce Chicago or Michigan like that. A lot of people aren't sure how to say Arkansas but then a lot of British can't even say simple words like "Holborn" which is phonetically pronounced as Ho-b'n
The thing you’re saying is? It like saying an englishman comes to Amsterdam and doesn’t pronounce it perfectly on the first try. See how unrealistic your comment was?
I used to pronounce Michigan Mitchigan (it does happen) but never heard anyone say Chickago I think he made that one up. The Arkansas one happens as well which to be fair is understandable. But I will happily call Maryland exactly how its spelt and not how Americans say it.
This is so interesting to watch from an American perspective! I drive without a GPS every day in England, it's pretty easy if you know how to get out of towns then you just follow signs but I guess for an American you just wouldn't know! People do drive waaaay too fast down our single track roads, I live down one and it's really annoying. Loved watching this and you drive really well! Stuff the toots from other drivers, people do toot too much in this country. I like to think I'm a nicer driver and usually am more patient.
Speak for yourself! Paul's right - if you want to drive in an unfamiliar city - or anywhere in Norfolk (the Bermuda Triangle of the UK) - you need a GPS.
***** I clearly am speaking for myself, hence "I drive...", I would never speak on behalf of the navigational ability of everyone who has ever driven in the UK. I personally don't like GPS as I like to actually get to my destination, which delivery drivers to my area don't seem to be able to do going by a post code which doesn't work in rural areas. Also roads and cities came before the invention of GPS so I would imagine people were capable of getting to destinations prior to the invention of the GPS using something called a map. I totally defend anyone not used to our country and cities though using a GPS as I use one in Europe when I drive over there. Like I said, it's what you know but even then the Sat Nav didn't help us find our rental place in a rural area and that's when you need to know the language and ask for good old directions lol. Although I think a boat would be a more suitable mode of transport here at the moment than a car which would probably benefit from a GPS system.
+HappyBerry Crochet Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Another point for Americans/Canadians (any foreign automatic transmission drivers) to consider, which I have made on similar videos, is that it is actually illegal to drive a manual/stick shift in the UK if you do not have a license to do so. If you pass your test in an auto you can ONLY legally drive an auto, if you pass in a manual you can drive both. So hiring a manual when you have an automatic back across the pond and that is ALL you're used to driving will mean that you are technically breaking the law.
I love all the great comments! I can't wait until my next trip to the UK. This time we want to go to Ireland and spend a lot more time in Scotland. Lat time we only had 2 days in Edinberg but loved it! This time we want to go further north and visit Loch Ness. I hope we see the monster!
+Git Groove I doubt you'll see "Nessie", I heard that someone who'd spent 30 odd years looking has finally given up! That said it is a beautiful country and I love my visits up there, in fact I'm due for a short visit in a few weeks, can't wait to try some more whisky's!
+Brockers01 Last name :P Close, but still wrong. Edinburgh is how it is spelled. Pronounced Edin-burra or Edin-bruh depending, so you got that bit right.
When I worked on assignment in England for a few months I had a company car. It was a manual transmission Ford estate car. I was picked up at my hotel and driven to work the first 2 weeks until I got used to being on the roads and then I had the car. It was back in 1987 so there was no GPS at that time so I used good old maps. I bought a driving rules guide and was prepared for how to handle rules of the roundabouts as well as stopping for pedestrians in zebra crossings. The only situation I got into was in Amersham. It was after my first week of driving to work. I was looking for a parking space and saw one on the right and without thinking I pulled into it. Well that works in the US since we drive on the right but it doesn't work like that in the UK where you cross into the opposite lane. So after I finished parking a man who was obviously very angry comes up to me and starts yelling at me that I had cut him off and he had to break hard to stop for me. He asked me if I was drunk and told me that he was going to call a constable, etc. I hadn't seen him nor had I heard any breaking. After a bit of a rant he finally gives me a chance to respond. Now mind you I was in a car that has a GB sticker on it and I could fit in with the Brits in terms of looks. However when I said, 'I beg your pardon' with a very distinct American accent he suddenly was dumbfounded and walked away. Ah, the blessings of being a stupid foreigner.
+Kerry Prochaska Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
It's just the same for us Brits when we go on holiday. I don't seem to have any problems adjusting to driving on the right, just takes a few minutes and off I go.
+STARKILLER15100 I guess the right side of the vehicle is actually the right side of the vehicle then. So if the left side is the wrong side, then does that mean I don't have to drive to work today? Cause the car is all wrong? ;) I'll call my boss!!
+STARKILLER15100 That's not really much of an argument because seriously, the first steam and gas engine cars appeared in America and Britain at pretty much the same time. One country might have got them just a tiny bit ahead of the other but they weren't really popular in either country and were rare when they first came out. Mass produced cars on the other hand reached popularity in England and America at pretty much the same time years later.
+gacaptain fair enough, on an unrelated note: why if both countries began manufacturing cars at the same time, do Americans now use automatics. Whereas Europe have remained with Manual Transmission? That's always dawned on me :/
STARKILLER15100 Easy answer. Gas (or petrol) has historically been about 3 times cheaper in America than Europe. Manuals use much less fuel than automatics which makes them (as well as small compact cars) much more appealing in Europe. Also, Engineers design American cars more for comfort and ease of use because Americans spend much more time in their cars and drive much greater distances due to the logistics of this huge country. For example, the Chief Engineer of Lexus was originally going to keep the design same as Europe and Japan until after he spent a year or so driving everyday in America to refine the American design he was flat wore out by the great distances and long driving times here so he decided to make the American design as comfortable as possible and promote more features of convenience like automatic transmissions.
+gacaptain All of which is true. You didn't mention that European roads in many cases follow historic routes some dating back thousands of years, literally cart tracks that have been upgraded time and again. Our roads are twisty, and we like our cars to corner well and grip. Large, softly sprung cars don't work well here, in fact they would make you travel sick! Many people remember the early 2 or 3 speed automatics which were slow to change and didn't kick down properly, and have been put off for life! However automatics are popular in small city cars and also now deemed essential in luxury cars like the larger BMW, Mercs, Range rovers etc.
I got lost in London in the pre-GPS days. People walking along the sidewalks had no idea how to get to where I wanted to be. I bought a map, but the guy at the gas station could not tell me where we were on the map. My final solution was to hire a cab to drive where I wanted to go and for me to follow him. Fortunately where I wanted to go was the rental car store which was just around the corner from where my wife and I were staying. There is absolutely no rhyme or reason to the layout of London streets.
Edin-burg tickled me... It's funny too think that most of the buildings seen as you leave the 'parking lot' are at least 100 years old, if not 200 years old.. York is a historic city!!!
I watch this with interest.as a British person who's driven all over the world I find it a little worrying that this gentleman thinks UK roads are a little crazy and hard to navigate. May I just point out that the UK has one of the safest and well laid out road systems in the western world. EVERY single town village and city in the UK is well sign posted and very clear along with road markings to aid you. If the time is taken to read and use the signs provided it is virtually impossible to get lost anywhere in England.a sat nav is definitely not needed and if anything will just add to your confusion. Also A:roads B:roads and Motorways are not judged or defined by how safe or unsafe they are but are a means of navigating the whole country easily and effectively. B:roads with a speed limit of 30mph are small roads that take you throw towns and villages. A:roads with a speed limit of 40 or 50mph were stated will take you around the outside of city's or towns and Motorways with a speed limit of 70mph and are usually 3 or 4 lane are for the longer journeys and will take you to every major city in the UK. So please my American friends don't be worried or scared about driving in the United Kingdom It's very simple if you look and think first Because all the help you need is right there on the road in front of you. And as for the roundabout system it's a very safe and effective method for turning and has been adopted the world over. And I might remind you that the UK has one of if not the lowest road death rate in Europe and this is Because of the UKs tight and stringent road laws and very public Safety campaigns. And after driving in many countries including the US I can assure you that British drivers are very well mannered forgiving and sensible. So just give it a go and if you do get lost it just adds to the adventure or you could always stop at a little village pub and ask for directions.
+AdFibs Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
I learnt to drive on both left and right drive cars, floor and steering column gears - I find it surprising that Americans seem to find the changeover so difficult. The main risk is in an emergency when you may instinctively go the wrong way!
I live in York and TBH it is confusing if you don't know it, it was when I moved here. Godspeed to any American (drives on wrong side of road and can't operate a manual gearbox) who attempts to drive through it. Then go to Leeds where they all drive twice as fast.
Remember the 1st time I drove fm Liverpool to Glasgow I was scared to death. Didn't have any GPS but, then, signs were so clear that (apart roundabouts) I was able to find my way pretty easily. Good job anyhow, would suggest all the rest of the world car drivers watch your clip before attempting to cross the channel!
+kolozs boronkay Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Not supposed to mount your GPS in the middle of the window in UK, the 45 degree vision rule means you should put it very low, on the side of the window or vent mount.
The B roads have some of the most beautiful scenery and villages with thatched cottages and buildings dating back 4-500 years old. You may miss out on this if you keep to the A and M roads.
Constant referring to needing a GPS or Sat Nav as we call them, rubbish, I'd admit it's useful but we've had visitors from Europe driving all over the UK for years, also I know people who were driving from the UK down to Italy, France, Spain etc way before Sat Navs were around
BTW, the show Mythbusters proved roundabouts are more efficient at moving traffic than a four way stop. A lot of our streets and roads date back to the Roman times and are narrow for that reason. Trying to drive a Hummer or Cadillac down them just wouldn't fly, that's why European cars tend to be smaller in deference to the long history of the place compared to the US where they think a 100 year old building is prehistoric.
I understand where this guy is coming from. I lived in the US and have a Florida license along with a British one. Test took 25 mins and cost $20 back in 1991. Driving in Florida is easy because A: it's flat. B: all the roads are straight. C: its impossible to get lost because the streets are are either N, NW, East , NE et cetera.
+P Jay Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day!
I know you say that you absolutely must have GPS in the UK, but how do you think we got around before it? A decent map and following the road signs worked perfectly for me. Signage is much better in the UK than in the US so you really shouldn't get lost.
+ianisme Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
"...show how crazy it is ...". Per passenger-mile the accident rate in the UK is one-fifth that in the USA (as a whole). The UK driving test is much, much more difficult than any in the USA. The majority of US citizens converting their licence to a UK one will not pass first time, no matter how easily they passed their US test. Having driven in several states in the US, as a UK driving instructor, I was frankly appalled at how poor the standard was there. A case in point here. Had you been taking your UK driving test when negotiating the first roundabout in this film, you would have picked up a minor fault for your positioning. Even minor faults, collect enough of them, will fail your test for you. Now, who's crazy? PS. To all those fools who you never drive normally the way you drive for your test - you're wrong - ask any driving instructor. Your comment will reveal just how competent a driver you really are.
WOW! I'm flattered you took my comment so well. I'll let you into a secret: I think the standard of driving in the UK, is, in general, pretty awful and I'd like to see people re-tested every five years. (Since I'm about to retire, there's no self-interest here.)
+Nicole K I drove in the states quite a bit long before I became an instructor. American drivers seem to me a great deal more tolerant than UK ones. I drove on the wrong side of the road over there more than once, and it didn't seem to be too big a deal. I just explained I was English, and all was forgiven. Not sure Americans would be treated so leniently doing the same thing over here. British drivers are so damned self-righteous.
Because we are used to having cars where we don't have to be shoulder to shoulder in them. Also because our roads are super wide, in comparison that is.
Philip Croft It also had to do with how European infrastructure developed, and then adapted to use roads for cars. American infrastructure developed.around the car
+Mladen Milić Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Ive driven in USA, Australia, South Africa and all over Europe and it is pretty scary but once you get into the flow and relax its fun. Driving on an empty road can catch you out as you can switch off and drive on the side youre used to at home! South Africa are the craziest drivers ive seen.
I believe UK drives on the left from the very early medival times. They did jousting from horses charging at each other on the left so its just carried on from there. So UK has done this for 1,000 years approx. So others have changed there way.
+doherty Tom Not that I'm afraid of them, in fact I used to drive one years ago as did many people in the United States. But in the last 20 years manuals are very rare in the U.S. and most of us have automatics. Just one less thing to think about when you're in a foreign country I guess. lol. I'll be going there again though and I think I'll get a manual.
The best way to enjoy England is to throw away your GPS and just follow the road signs ... B roads are more fun to drive on because you get to test your driving skills and you get to enjoy the beautiful countryside too.
+Carl Spencer Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
+Mick Kennedy Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day!
Good to see the pioneering American spirit alive and well on UK roads. Ignore bad manners in these comments as the English will welcome you in person and respect you for giving it a go. If you drive off the island into europe you have to drive on the right, so English are generally good drivers, much more courteous and patient than most europeans. Have lived in the UK, Holland and Lithuania and driven through most of Europe. English road system is good quality, very organised and very consistent. Would recommend Americans come and experience our beautiful country, the culture, the history and an amazing driving experience. You 'll love it.
loved it! would recommend visiting the UK for sure... and limit your time in London, the culture was out in the country and smaller villages. London is great but I'm not a City boy.
+Jordan 'Dingus'Jones Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Have to say, the roads in the UK have deteriorated a lot since your visit! Provided you can read a map you can quite easily go from town to town or city to city but the sat nav will definitely help once you get in a town or city. However, if your sat nav isnt upto date, local authorities may change access to some roads so you cannot use them despite what the sat nav says.
It's a good idea to purchase a couple of green "P" plates (signifies new driver) from a garage when driving for the first time in the UK. Other road users will be much more tolerant of any mistakes made.
+simon peters Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
NuclearWinter2110 not true, you can leave P plates for as long as you want on your car be that a year or 20 years, its all up to you, i wouldn’t advice anyone (even if they just passed their test) to put P plates on their car, once someone sees P plates on a car their attitude changes, they think “theyve just passed their test they know what to do!!!” Then start trying to overtake you in dangerous places. Most people when they see L plates however think “ its fine, theyre learning”.
NuclearWinter2110 i think most people leave them on for 6 months and its “advisory” to leave them on for at least 6 months, most people only put P plates on because their parents told them too. Everyone makes mistakes so no worries, you’ve been told that by your driving instructor, he was in the wrong, My driving instructor told me not to put P plates on my car
My experience. I was a trainee driving instructor, I had so many people performing incredibly dangerous manoeuvres whilst I had L plates on. Including one where I was overtaken whilst coming out of a junction, where the moron had no way of seeing trailing or incoming traffic. I started to take off the plates off after lessons. People act crazy towards learners and people who have just passed with P plates.
You can only pass through a light on amber if you have already passed the 'stop line' on the road. Unless it was actually red when you hit the intersection you wont get a fine or points on your license.
I don't understand why people don't take a driving test before they get here, like you wouldn't like it if we made silly jokes at people in America for driving it's not funny, and don't honk back and say hello because people here will get out their car and probably punch you 😂😂. And it's not the wrong side of the road, there's no right or wrong side it's the side we drive on.
Making them take a test is a bit much! A lot of older people driving around in the UK have never taken tests over here anyway. Although I did laugh at the 'honking back' bit. In the UK, the horn is basically saying 'OI, IDIOT! WATCH WHERE YOU'RE GOING!' to other drivers. So if you make a mistake and get beeped by other drivers, if you beep back at them then you are saying they are the ones who made the mistake and/or it will be viewed as being aggressive after you messed up. Only use your horn if you are worried another person hasn't seen you. If you are just saying 'hello', 'thank you', 'sorry' or 'after you', then either wave your hand or flash your lights (unofficial rules).
Ha. Manuals are becoming obsolete anyway. I have both but for us Americans, automatics make more sense. We have longer commutes and crappy traffic which does not make driving a manual fun or pleasurable. Now if driving a manual is somehow a badge of honor and a way to poke fun of Americans, than have at it.
I’m slightly concerned that the driver appeared to be holding the camera and messing about with the view while driving, splitting your focus isn’t very safe even for a short time, particularly given the lack of familiarity with our roads
+HSTBEN1 Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
All very good advice! I passed my driving test in York (in the days when Fosse Islands Road had no traffic lights - if not for the courtesy and civility of other drivers, there would have been a 24 hour fistfight there LOL). I would nominate York as one of the toughest cities to drive in. 1 The roads were laid down before the car was invented, and the fastest speed on a road was limited to the speed of your mule. They would also be built for the width of 2 mules passing. They are therefore slow, twisty and a tight fit for your car. 2 Consequently, driving in cities is slow and difficult. (My Australian niece drove 2 miles from my house and crumbled with the stress. She got a Brit to drive in front and 'pilot' her back home.) 3 The cars are smaller than you are used to. They are built to drive and park easier in our congested cities. Parking places are rare-ish, difficult to find and if you do find one, VERY expensive. Small cars give better fuel consumption. Americans are always amazed at the high price of gasoline here. 4 Yes, get a satnav and an automatic car. Coping with the tight twisty roads, driving on the opposite side of the road, operating a manual stick shift, working out what the traffic signs mean and remembering a map could be too many things to think about at one time. 5 Give way, and be courteous. Pedestrians may walk out in front of you at ANY time. The pedestrian is king - and there are many dead ones to attest to the fact (wince). I have never heard of anyone being prosecuted for jaywalking, but many for driving without 'due care and attention'. Keep your speed down - there are speed cameras everywhere. It is a major source of income to the city. Wherever there is a lamp=post and no speed signs, then the limit is 30. I know - I once was caught by a speed camera 30 years ago. I have never done it since. I drove at 42 mph on a totally empty 2X4 lane road in Liverpool and I'm still paying the fine (LOL about the last bit) 6 Use public transport when in cities.It is easier and less nerve jangling. Its also usually much cheaper since there are no parking fees. And the bus guys are a mine of information for the visitor. 7 Yes, drive between cities! UK has some beautiful countryside. I cannot be specific, there is so much it. The Cotswolds, the Lake District, Cornwall, Yorkshire Dales and Moors, the Scottish and Welsh mountains....the list is endless. It may not have the awe of the Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls, but it is, in its own British way, understatedly majestic.(Smile) 8 Look up online. Many British cities have Park and Ride schemes in an attempt to reduce traffic congestion. You park the car on the fringe of the city and get a bus or train to the centre. York is one example, 9 My Australian sister puts an Australian flag sticker on the rear window when she drives in Britain. She thinks that it makes the Brit drivers be a bit more patient and give her more room and expect the unexpected. Equally, it might make her a target for opportunist thieves. The choice is yours. 10 DO NOT LET THE ABOVE DISSUADE YOU. They are just a list of things that you might expect. If it turns out better, then great! Driving is possible and done daily, though rarely enjoyably in our cities. Wouldn't you rather take our good public transport and enjoy the view? I would never drive in London/York/Oxford and many other cities and towns unless I really had to. Final word. I agree with the comments below about Beverley. Be sure to visit Nellies for a pint. Yes, its a gas-lit, olde-worlde pub. But of course, do not drink (more than one pint of) beer and drive. The legal penalties are extremely harsh, and the social penalties could be harsher (like death). Make someone else the designated driver LOL. Cheers.
OK, so in Britain we have roads so narrow that 2 cars can't pass; one car has to pull over to let the other by. This is how railways operate in America.
+budgie98 Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day!
I got lots of friends and family that have been to the states and not one of them says anything about driving over there, but it seems to be a massive issue for Americans having to drive in britain. Why?
You could always try reading the road signs!! Every road has a number and the SatNav (GPS ) will tell you and show you. If you think it's hard driving in the UK try Boston, Ma!
Did you say it's a manual transmission you're driving or automatic? I'm American and traditionally only driven manuals, until I injured my left arm in a traumatic fall - it's now partially paralyzed, unfortunately. Anyway, I'm not certain (even if I wasn't injured) if I could work a gearshift with my left hand.
Paul Olstad This explains it. I thought you said you recommend an automatic, but I also audibly heard shift points, more than one would expect from an automatic, unless it was a gearless CVT. Thanks for clarifying
+a stupid genius Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
I went on a 3 week trip to Great Britain a couple years ago. I drove a diesel manual. (Cheapest car to rent) I'm a manual girl. Shifting through the highlands is.... something I cannot put words to. :, ) It was a Seat, really nice car. Scotland was my absolute FAVORITE place to drive through. I started out in Edinburgh. I was terrified the first day but got used to it fast. There is much more to see when you're on your own.
+Justin Case Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
+jeffreyser Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
TBH I only occasionally use a GPS. If anything; I found American road signs to be a lot worse than ours! We have a fairly good system of Signage here. I'd only use a GPS for long journeys.
See now, before driving in England, I advise Americans to get used to driving at 130 mph. Americans must be aware that all speed signs in England show the MINIMUM speed at which you should be traveling, NOT the maximum. You can drive as fast as you wish in England. At roundabouts you should always wait for the car to the left of you before moving out. As a general rule, if you are stopped by the police, don't panic. All they want is a small "bribe" 100 to 200 pounds should be sufficient. Fold the money in half and as you are talking to them, drop it at their feet and say "Here's a pound for the piggy". Then tip your hat or cap, and drive away ( remembering to drive over the posted sign minimum limit. Happy Motoring.
York is hard to drive in and near, it's a one way system going into the castle wall and all the way round left to right, unless you drive through the cobbled city centre which when I see it doesn't look legal at all...until you see people! Very very hilly aswel is York. The trick to England when taking A roads is know the biggest city you're destination is near and possibly a few on the way to make sure and just follow the signs to the big city, the nearer you get you'll begging to see signs for you're area, when in a city stay safe and follow the signs for 'the town centre' or 'the city centre', if it looks busy go find you're car park
+Michael T Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
There aren't just roundabouts in the UK - they're all over Europe. In the UK, as you are driving on the left hand side, when you approach the roundabout you give way to traffic from the right. Therefore if you're in mainland Europe you drive on the right hand side and give way to the left. Same principle but switched the other way around.
It's against the law here if you only passed in an automatic. To legally drive a manual you must pass your test in one. The converse is not true. You may drive an automatic if you passed in a manual.
Here in the states, it doesn't matter what kind of trans you test with. Driving manual or auto is a choice. And I also hear one of the stereotypes is that most americans drive automatics and can't drive manual. I guess it depends where because pretty much almost everyone here in washington state drives manual or can drive manual :P So I guess the main trans here in the US in general is auto, but there's plenty of manuals as well.
Maktoum Al-Jerazzi Yes, we have these stereotype about Americans :) By the way, in Hungary if you learnt on an automatic, and took the driving exam with it, a restriction will be written in your driving license, so you mustn't drive manual car until you took a driving exam with a manual. :) That's the rule in our lovely country. :) Anyway I think it's a very good rule, because here nobody stalls, nobody goes slower, because doesn't want to gear up/down. In my town there are very few automatic cars, but I'm happy that I drive the car. Once I've driven an automatic (BMW x6) and after some crossroads I wanted to be in my old Opel Corsa. When you drive automatic I think you lose the feeling of driving. That's why I like manual transmission, and I hope there will be always the ability to choose (I mean I hope there will be manual cars in the future).
NO! Never just rely on your GPS to know which lane to be in, whether it be road, junction or roundabout - regardless of what country you're in. Read the roadside signs and read the lane markings.
And so does Kiwiland (New Zealand), Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, Macao, most of the Anglo-Caribbean countries, and Guyana (though surrounded by right side ones) and some more that we've probably forgotten LOL
oh kudos to you, i just returned to England from spending 17 years in your country , and to be honest it freaked me out being on the left side of the road, and roundabouts i forgot all about them , you did a really good job.
+w0bblyc0bbly Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
And for Americans - what you often have stateside as a brake for parking, you probably won't find a pedal on the floor - its the lever in the middle between the seats most often and you pull it by hand. Getting around without a GPS is easy - we have things in the UK called road signs which give directions. Heaven help you if you visit Wales - its mainly B roads or "unclassified" which are narrow. You are better off with a map and compass. 1 gallon in the US=3.5 litres, whereas 1 Gallon in the UK=4.55 litres so dont be too shocked when you gas up the car. Ive driven most of the eastern US and still prefer driving in the UK in terms of didsance coverable in any given time. Allow an average speed of 38 miles per hour for your journey and you wont be far off in the UK taking in all road types. I avoid motorways like the plague if possible as theres usually a long holdup/tailback/somewhere (pres the TA button on the car radio and you will get traffic updates in your area. Dont trust the satnav data, especially if it hasnt been updated recently. If you rent a car in the UK, check and make sure it has a full size spare wheel rather than a narrow spacesaver type - the spacesavers dont last long and can only be run at lowish speeds. Most of all, when you come here, enjoy. Remember - historic, in the UK does not usually mean anything less than a couple of hundred years old. My house was built in 1531, and many of my books are older than your country for the most part - once out of the towns and cities, almost every village or settlement is, or contains "historic" buildings of one sort or another. Oh, and beer in the UK is made by brewing hops, not mixing chemicals and making it so cold it freezes your teeth.......and be patient - fast food her takes time!
+tauwilltriumph Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Zig-zags before a pedestrians crossing (or outside a school) are there to point out that pedestrians are around. You can't overtake, change lane or park (even unload) on a zig-zag. You can get 3 points on your license (12=banned).
+Greg B Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Of course; nonetheless, still fun. By the way, not only a different lane system, a different steering column design. Parallel parking to changing lanes in a different traffic system while operating on a different side of the car, is a rush. Adrenalin dump with an anxious nerve-racking mind state being set into overdrive.
Its really not hard but rather easy. The roads here are bigger, the interstates and highways are pretty much the same besides the fact the you drive a left drive car on the right side of the road. When you come to road ways that are 3 lanes each way (6 lane roadway), big rigs(semis/lorries) drive the center to outer lane but only use the inner lane when turning left same goes for a 4 lane roadway (2 lanes each way). Now, for many new to the States and are use to driving on the left, turning left is always in the middle of the road with the exception of one way roads then turning left is very similar but can get very confusing when turning on to a 2 way road, for that, you just turn onto the right side of the road, into the lane closest to the center of the road. Other than that, it is very basic and easy to get understand after a few intersections or a few minutes, you should get the hang of driving here in the states. Oh and follow the signs, they just so happen to come in very handy for the confusing times. Oh and I forgot to mention; you bypass a person in the left lane, if you must bypass someone on the right, just watch out for cops and also, be discrete about your right hand side bypass. If you have any other questions, just message me. -Stephenie
If you plan to move to the UK the law states a foreign licence may be used for 12 months after entry but you must apply for a UK Full Auto or Manual Licence by the end of this period.
Thanks for commenting on my video!! :) If you're so inclined check out my channel. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
hahaha I've got that satnav/GPS it always sounds like it says roundapout
lol
classic american. its edinbru or edin buru
classic
Paul Olstad must have been a shock to your system, driving on the roads where the majority of other road users had passed a driving test. Rather than getting one given to you on your sixteenth birthday.
I tried to drive in America once, I kept punching the door while trying to change gear. 🤭
I have driven all over Europe and the USA and the only issue was having to think twice when approaching a roundabout on returning to the UK !!!
Same thing but in reverse when I first drove in the UK. I tell you the door handle is rubbish to change gear 😂
Just let me say - I loved my visit to the UK!! The people were very nice, the country was absolutely beautiful and we plan to go back! But this time I'll know how to drive there much better!
+Git Groove Glad you enjoyed your visit, hasty back !!! :-)
+Git Groove Good to read you had a great holiday in UK, driving on the left (with care) helps make it a memorable experience and for a small nation there is so much to see.
To any of my North American cousins, that would like a driving holiday in UK or Ireland, the airport car rentals do have automatic vehicles to book up, a GPS can be bought for around £ 50, enjoy.
And frankly driving on the right hand side (where the drive wheel on the right) is definitely much better than having the drive wheel on the left side. Simply because many people are dominantly right handed and its just feels natural holding the steering wheel with your right hand rather than the left. You just feel more confident holding it with the right hand and shift the gearbox with your left.
*****
I agree, not a huge pain on motorways but get stuck behind a large slow vehicle on a busy road makes overtaking exciting possibly dangerous.
I'm going to the UK for the first time in a month. Do you recommend anything? I did rent an automatic.
So pleased you enjoyed your visit here, just a couuple of little quibbles; driving on the left is not 'the wrong side' in the UK and secondly, our roads, other than the motor ways, were, for the most part, 'laid out' centuries ago. All it needs is patience and good manners - bear in mind, this is a small island.
+Gordon Smith You are right!
0:27 "If you don't have a GPS in England you're gonna be screwed".
We did survive for many years using road maps and road direction signs before sat-navs came in ya know?
We only drive fast to justify the high insurance premiums and generate an income for our failing Government through speeding fines
^^ This
+Phil Smith Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Lefties get everywhere
Phil Smith I'm gunna use this in court mate
speed cameras everywhere.How anyone has escaped getting suspended for speeding is incomprehensible
Did he just say he used the GPS in "Edin-berg"?
He must be a moron!
Lol, aye - it's pronounced 'Edin-burra'
Noneofyourbusiness Same lol and its in scotland
+Steve King Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
That’s the way they would pronounce the name in the States. There is a city in Texas with that name.
In America you drive on the right side of the road.
In England we drive on the correct side.
James Slack by " the right side of the road ", you meant we drive on the correct side also
James Slack Correction: All countries with basic logic drive on the right side of the road
and only in the UK and some of their ex-slave countries drive on the left
James Slack
bullcrap.. most of the world drives on the right... i dunno why the uk drives on the left it really is stupid. However this guy could do with educating himself on pronunciation of Edinburgh. Bit of a simpleton making a meal out of driving a car. it really is not rocket science but this guy is a 'rocket'
Martin H Thats what google is for, google why we drive on the left, and then you will see why we drive on the correct, traditional side untill murica changed it.
Kaclool
america literally drives on th right side of the rode... you drive on the wrong side.
He said you must yield to someone "coming in the roundabout". That can sound like "someone coming INTO the roundabout" which would be wrong. The safest rule is "give way to traffic from the right". When you are on the roundabout you have the right of way [but if the traffic is stopped, leave a space for entering traffic to pass through; i.e. don't block the road through.
Thanks for the driving instructions!
Of course your going to need a GPS or map when your driving somewhere you don't know, regardless of country.
+Jarl Grimm Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
You're*
Of course YOU'RE going to need.....
Cell phone, with $12 roam anywhere, it's cheaper to use a North American cell phone (mobile phone) in the UK than renting a GPS in a car, they charge a fortune. Then you get satellite radio too.
@@oz_medias lol are u living in 2008 ? phones have GPS built in and dosnt need roaming charges
It may help you to get a copy of the UK highway code. You would then know the rules of the road.
+Martin Tabony Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day!
+Martin Tabony Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
If you are just exploring, looking for random stuff, you can't beat B roads. Full of character and history. Always plodding around on them on my motorbike.
The first time I went to the UK my mom drove and we had a GPS, and we made so many mistakes. Got stuck in the rental car parking lot (it was very crowded which is normal) Drove very slow in the fast lane(it is also opposite duh!), got a little close to the curb,GPS led us into a sheep field, but after that I drove in the Uk by myself with no GPS twice since then and had no problem, It doesn't take long to get used to it, and round-abouts are awesome! I'm glad Canada is incorporating them into our roads more and more.
+Sara Richardson Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Coming from the uk this is actually very interesting
+JackSwatman Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
agreed! good video
I have nothing against you colonials. The bass player in my band's a yank. :)
you mean you got in the correct side of the vehicle lol
+uk spartan Not sure getting in a vehicle at all is the correct thing to do... lol
Lol m8 you wana drive in central London during rush hour
When I was there that was the only place I refused to drive... rode the tube instead. I can't even believe people drive in London. lol
Git Groove lol relly it's not that bad once you done a couple of times you just need to be aggressive or you won't get any were. I can't imagine somewhere like new York during rush hour being any better than London
I live in Minneapolis, MN. I would never drive in New York. I think it might be worse than London.
the roads aren't 'crazy' or 'weird' - they're just DIFFERENT
they are if im driving
Point of note about A roads for visitors; the fewer digits, the wider and faster the road is more likely to be over its total length. for example, the A1 which runs north-south is usually a dual carriageway (two lanes on each direction, sometimes up to 4 and have a central reservation/median) averaging around 70 mph, with some segments at 50 or 60 though built up areas, whereas a smaller road like the A1307 will be 60 on average with some 40-50 parts and mostly single carriageway (one lane in each direction). To add further confusion, some A roads will have an 'M' designation where motorway rules apply for a section (e.g. no stopping).
Why am I watching this? I'm British for the Queen's sake! Guess I best be off to make my tea and crumpets!
(Yes, I am reinforcing stereotypes here, no, I don't care, yes, I am actually British).
Nazi Doge so am i lol
Two sugars for me please. ❤
You've been to Edinburgh and somehow come away still mispronouncing the name of it? Wow. Fail.
+Mo Mew Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Mo Mew
Many Brits mispronounce American words also if you must know. It's funny to hear an Englishman say "Chickago or Mitchigan" when they visit the USA.
I'm English, I've never heard anybody pronounce Chicago or Michigan like that. A lot of people aren't sure how to say Arkansas but then a lot of British can't even say simple words like "Holborn" which is phonetically pronounced as Ho-b'n
The thing you’re saying is? It like saying an englishman comes to Amsterdam and doesn’t pronounce it perfectly on the first try. See how unrealistic your comment was?
I used to pronounce Michigan Mitchigan (it does happen) but never heard anyone say Chickago I think he made that one up. The Arkansas one happens as well which to be fair is understandable. But I will happily call Maryland exactly how its spelt and not how Americans say it.
This is so interesting to watch from an American perspective! I drive without a GPS every day in England, it's pretty easy if you know how to get out of towns then you just follow signs but I guess for an American you just wouldn't know! People do drive waaaay too fast down our single track roads, I live down one and it's really annoying. Loved watching this and you drive really well! Stuff the toots from other drivers, people do toot too much in this country. I like to think I'm a nicer driver and usually am more patient.
Thanks! I have to admit it was a challenge driving there for a newbie that's used to huge roads.
Speak for yourself!
Paul's right - if you want to drive in an unfamiliar city - or anywhere in Norfolk (the Bermuda Triangle of the UK) - you need a GPS.
***** I clearly am speaking for myself, hence "I drive...", I would never speak on behalf of the navigational ability of everyone who has ever driven in the UK. I personally don't like GPS as I like to actually get to my destination, which delivery drivers to my area don't seem to be able to do going by a post code which doesn't work in rural areas. Also roads and cities came before the invention of GPS so I would imagine people were capable of getting to destinations prior to the invention of the GPS using something called a map. I totally defend anyone not used to our country and cities though using a GPS as I use one in Europe when I drive over there. Like I said, it's what you know but even then the Sat Nav didn't help us find our rental place in a rural area and that's when you need to know the language and ask for good old directions lol. Although I think a boat would be a more suitable mode of transport here at the moment than a car which would probably benefit from a GPS system.
Git Groove It might have been better to hire a smaller car - that would feel like a big car even for me, and I'm British!
+HappyBerry Crochet Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Another point for Americans/Canadians (any foreign automatic transmission drivers) to consider, which I have made on similar videos, is that it is actually illegal to drive a manual/stick shift in the UK if you do not have a license to do so. If you pass your test in an auto you can ONLY legally drive an auto, if you pass in a manual you can drive both. So hiring a manual when you have an automatic back across the pond and that is ALL you're used to driving will mean that you are technically breaking the law.
I love all the great comments! I can't wait until my next trip to the UK. This time we want to go to Ireland and spend a lot more time in Scotland. Lat time we only had 2 days in Edinberg but loved it! This time we want to go further north and visit Loch Ness. I hope we see the monster!
+Git Groove *Edingburgh and it's pronounced edin-bruh the g is silent
+Git Groove I doubt you'll see "Nessie", I heard that someone who'd spent 30 odd years looking has finally given up! That said it is a beautiful country and I love my visits up there, in fact I'm due for a short visit in a few weeks, can't wait to try some more whisky's!
+Brockers01 Last name :P Close, but still wrong. Edinburgh is how it is spelled. Pronounced Edin-burra or Edin-bruh depending, so you got that bit right.
+Git Groove Edinburgh, in Scotland.
Azureecosse So was I...
What do you think we did 20 years ago before GPS
We just used a map and comm on sense.
When I worked on assignment in England for a few months I had a company car. It was a manual transmission Ford estate car. I was picked up at my hotel and driven to work the first 2 weeks until I got used to being on the roads and then I had the car. It was back in 1987 so there was no GPS at that time so I used good old maps. I bought a driving rules guide and was prepared for how to handle rules of the roundabouts as well as stopping for pedestrians in zebra crossings. The only situation I got into was in Amersham. It was after my first week of driving to work. I was looking for a parking space and saw one on the right and without thinking I pulled into it. Well that works in the US since we drive on the right but it doesn't work like that in the UK where you cross into the opposite lane. So after I finished parking a man who was obviously very angry comes up to me and starts yelling at me that I had cut him off and he had to break hard to stop for me. He asked me if I was drunk and told me that he was going to call a constable, etc. I hadn't seen him nor had I heard any breaking. After a bit of a rant he finally gives me a chance to respond. Now mind you I was in a car that has a GB sticker on it and I could fit in with the Brits in terms of looks. However when I said, 'I beg your pardon' with a very distinct American accent he suddenly was dumbfounded and walked away. Ah, the blessings of being a stupid foreigner.
+Kerry Prochaska Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
It's just the same for us Brits when we go on holiday. I don't seem to have any problems adjusting to driving on the right, just takes a few minutes and off I go.
+Mick Hill True - but at first it's kinda scary... at least for me. But after a bit I was totally used to it.
U need a gps for driving in Emgland, "i dont know what road im on?".
Big road sign next to car window. lol
So he's got a modern vehicle with a high seating position, automatic gearchange and proximity sensors? And a satnav? How can it be easier?
Since England had cars first, Americans are in the wrong side of the vehicle.
+STARKILLER15100 I guess the right side of the vehicle is actually the right side of the vehicle then. So if the left side is the wrong side, then does that mean I don't have to drive to work today? Cause the car is all wrong? ;) I'll call my boss!!
+STARKILLER15100
That's not really much of an argument because seriously, the first steam and gas engine cars appeared in America and Britain at pretty much the same time. One country might have got them just a tiny bit ahead of the other but they weren't really popular in either country and were rare when they first came out. Mass produced cars on the other hand reached popularity in England and America at pretty much the same time years later.
+gacaptain fair enough, on an unrelated note: why if both countries began manufacturing cars at the same time, do Americans now use automatics. Whereas Europe have remained with Manual Transmission? That's always dawned on me :/
STARKILLER15100
Easy answer. Gas (or petrol) has historically been about 3 times cheaper in America than Europe. Manuals use much less fuel than automatics which makes them (as well as small compact cars) much more appealing in Europe.
Also, Engineers design American cars more for comfort and ease of use because Americans spend much more time in their cars and drive much greater distances due to the logistics of this huge country. For example, the Chief Engineer of Lexus was originally going to keep the design same as Europe and Japan until after he spent a year or so driving everyday in America to refine the American design he was flat wore out by the great distances and long driving times here so he decided to make the American design as comfortable as possible and promote more features of convenience like automatic transmissions.
+gacaptain All of which is true. You didn't mention that European roads in many cases follow historic routes some dating back thousands of years, literally cart tracks that have been upgraded time and again. Our roads are twisty, and we like our cars to corner well and grip. Large, softly sprung cars don't work well here, in fact they would make you travel sick! Many people remember the early 2 or 3 speed automatics which were slow to change and didn't kick down properly, and have been put off for life! However automatics are popular in small city cars and also now deemed essential in luxury cars like the larger BMW, Mercs, Range rovers etc.
I got lost in London in the pre-GPS days. People walking along the sidewalks had no idea how to get to where I wanted to be. I bought a map, but the guy at the gas station could not tell me where we were on the map. My final solution was to hire a cab to drive where I wanted to go and for me to follow him. Fortunately where I wanted to go was the rental car store which was just around the corner from where my wife and I were staying. There is absolutely no rhyme or reason to the layout of London streets.
Edin-burg tickled me... It's funny too think that most of the buildings seen as you leave the 'parking lot' are at least 100 years old, if not 200 years old.. York is a historic city!!!
+Rayman ray loved York
I wonder how many buildings in York are older than the USA 🤔
We do not drive on the Wrong side of the road, when soldiers begin to march, which foot goes first? we drive on the appropriate side of the road.
I watch this with interest.as a British person who's driven all over the world I find it a little worrying that this gentleman thinks UK roads are a little crazy and hard to navigate. May I just point out that the UK has one of the safest and well laid out road systems in the western world. EVERY single town village and city in the UK is well sign posted and very clear along with road markings to aid you. If the time is taken to read and use the signs provided it is virtually impossible to get lost anywhere in England.a sat nav is definitely not needed and if anything will just add to your confusion. Also A:roads B:roads and Motorways are not judged or defined by how safe or unsafe they are but are a means of navigating the whole country easily and effectively. B:roads with a speed limit of 30mph are small roads that take you throw towns and villages. A:roads with a speed limit of 40 or 50mph were stated will take you around the outside of city's or towns and Motorways with a speed limit of 70mph and are usually 3 or 4 lane are for the longer journeys and will take you to every major city in the UK. So please my American friends don't be worried or scared about driving in the United Kingdom It's very simple if you look and think first Because all the help you need is right there on the road in front of you. And as for the roundabout system it's a very safe and effective method for turning and has been adopted the world over. And I might remind you that the UK has one of if not the lowest road death rate in Europe and this is Because of the UKs tight and stringent road laws and very public
Safety campaigns. And after driving in many countries including the US I can assure you that British drivers are very well mannered forgiving and sensible. So just give it a go and if you do get lost it just adds to the adventure or you could always stop at a little village pub and ask for directions.
+AdFibs Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
We are used to roads laid out in a grid rather than hub and spoke.
I learnt to drive on both left and right drive cars, floor and steering column gears - I find it surprising that Americans seem to find the changeover so difficult. The main risk is in an emergency when you may instinctively go the wrong way!
"Edin-burg"
+Mike Pruce I stand corrected! At least I'm standing.
+Git Groove an easy mistake to make! I'm sure I was the same when I was in the US!
+Mike Pruce
Did you say Pittsburgh (Pittsborough) LOL.
Edeenburg orro
I live in York and TBH it is confusing if you don't know it, it was when I moved here. Godspeed to any American (drives on wrong side of road and can't operate a manual gearbox) who attempts to drive through it.
Then go to Leeds where they all drive twice as fast.
York is like Toytown. If you ever come to London, maybe best to stick to taxis?
Remember the 1st time I drove fm Liverpool to Glasgow I was scared to death. Didn't have any GPS but, then, signs were so clear that (apart roundabouts) I was able to find my way pretty easily. Good job anyhow, would suggest all the rest of the world car drivers watch your clip before attempting to cross the channel!
+kolozs boronkay Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
2:10 girl like "holy sht, foreigner at the wheel!"
Not supposed to mount your GPS in the middle of the window in UK, the 45 degree vision rule means you should put it very low, on the side of the window or vent mount.
Oh thank you for clarifying
The B roads have some of the most beautiful scenery and villages with thatched cottages and buildings dating back 4-500 years old. You may miss out on this if you keep to the A and M roads.
you are correct!
Constant referring to needing a GPS or Sat Nav as we call them, rubbish, I'd admit it's useful but we've had visitors from Europe driving all over the UK for years, also I know people who were driving from the UK down to Italy, France, Spain etc way before Sat Navs were around
Quick little fact, in britain its not a gps its a SatNav
Fatal Immortality Eh i say both.
I call it both, I'm English
BTW, the show Mythbusters proved roundabouts are more efficient at moving traffic than a four way stop. A lot of our streets and roads date back to the Roman times and are narrow for that reason. Trying to drive a Hummer or Cadillac down them just wouldn't fly, that's why European cars tend to be smaller in deference to the long history of the place compared to the US where they think a 100 year old building is prehistoric.
I agree. After driving in the UK for a few weeks I started to love them. There are many intersections here that should be roundabouts.
I understand where this guy is coming from. I lived in the US and have a Florida license along with a British one. Test took 25 mins and cost $20 back in 1991. Driving in Florida is easy because A: it's flat. B: all the roads are straight. C: its impossible to get lost because the streets are are either N, NW, East , NE et cetera.
+P Jay Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day!
Git Groove Don't say you're dumb 😮 We love you guys and stand shoulder to shoulder with you. And I will check out the links you supplied. Thank you.
I'll bookmark this video and the next time I'm there I'll give ya a shout and we'll see about meeting up, first pint's on me :)
I know you say that you absolutely must have GPS in the UK, but how do you think we got around before it? A decent map and following the road signs worked perfectly for me. Signage is much better in the UK than in the US so you really shouldn't get lost.
+ianisme Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
"...show how crazy it is ...". Per passenger-mile the accident rate in the UK is one-fifth that in the USA (as a whole). The UK driving test is much, much more difficult than any in the USA. The majority of US citizens converting their licence to a UK one will not pass first time, no matter how easily they passed their US test. Having driven in several states in the US, as a UK driving instructor, I was frankly appalled at how poor the standard was there.
A case in point here. Had you been taking your UK driving test when negotiating the first roundabout in this film, you would have picked up a minor fault for your positioning. Even minor faults, collect enough of them, will fail your test for you.
Now, who's crazy?
PS. To all those fools who you never drive normally the way you drive for your test - you're wrong - ask any driving instructor. Your comment will reveal just how competent a driver you really are.
I totally agree with you. Learned a lot on my trip for sure - loved the UK!!
And yes - I'm very crazy. lol
WOW! I'm flattered you took my comment so well. I'll let you into a secret: I think the standard of driving in the UK, is, in general, pretty awful and I'd like to see people re-tested every five years. (Since I'm about to retire, there's no self-interest here.)
the world has no room for hate. we should talk to eachother nicely even on the interweb. :)
+Nicole K I drove in the states quite a bit long before I became an instructor. American drivers seem to me a great deal more tolerant than UK ones. I drove on the wrong side of the road over there more than once, and it didn't seem to be too big a deal. I just explained I was English, and all was forgiven. Not sure Americans would be treated so leniently doing the same thing over here. British drivers are so damned self-righteous.
You must not hire a manual car if you haven't passed a test for a manual car. It's against the law in the UK and it invalidates your insurance.
Thank you for informing your English cohorts who know nothing of the world... or even their country for that matter.
I never understood why Americans when come to Europe always rent biggest car they can find , usually van .
Because we are used to having cars where we don't have to be shoulder to shoulder in them. Also because our roads are super wide, in comparison that is.
gtaclevelandcity I think that was his point--our roads ARE'NT wide off the motorways.
Philip Croft It also had to do with how European infrastructure developed, and then adapted to use roads for cars. American infrastructure developed.around the car
+Mladen Milić Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Mladen Milić I think it's so they can fit in it.
Ive driven in USA, Australia, South Africa and all over Europe and it is pretty scary but once you get into the flow and relax its fun. Driving on an empty road can catch you out as you can switch off and drive on the side youre used to at home! South Africa are the craziest drivers ive seen.
I believe UK drives on the left from the very early medival times. They did jousting from horses charging at each other on the left so its just carried on from there. So UK has done this for 1,000 years approx. So others have changed there way.
Automatics are very rear here in the UK, I don't know why people are so afraid of manuals, they're not that hard to drive
+doherty Tom Not that I'm afraid of them, in fact I used to drive one years ago as did many people in the United States. But in the last 20 years manuals are very rare in the U.S. and most of us have automatics. Just one less thing to think about when you're in a foreign country I guess. lol. I'll be going there again though and I think I'll get a manual.
The best way to enjoy England is to throw away your GPS and just follow the road signs ... B roads are more fun to drive on because you get to test your driving skills and you get to enjoy the beautiful countryside too.
+Carl Spencer Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Well, Paul, did you visit EdinBERG -- it's way above CarLISS-lee?
+Mick Kennedy Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day!
Good to see the pioneering American spirit alive and well on UK roads. Ignore bad manners in these comments as the English will welcome you in person and respect you for giving it a go. If you drive off the island into europe you have to drive on the right, so English are generally good drivers, much more courteous and patient than most europeans. Have lived in the UK, Holland and Lithuania and driven through most of Europe. English road system is good quality, very organised and very consistent. Would recommend Americans come and experience our beautiful country, the culture, the history and an amazing driving experience. You 'll love it.
loved it! would recommend visiting the UK for sure... and limit your time in London, the culture was out in the country and smaller villages. London is great but I'm not a City boy.
Enjoyed the vid. "Roads are rated by risk level" made me laugh, thank God we don't have any 'c' roads!
C, D and U roads exist but aren't marked on roadsigns.
Edingburg XD XD That made me LOL!
Edinburgh is quite a weird spelling tho :)
That is very true! XD
+Jordan 'Dingus'Jones Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
My only concern is that you've fixed your GPS too high on the windscreen. It can hide many hazards including motorcyclists.
It's pronounced Ed-in-bur-uh, not Ed-in-burg. If I ever go to Pittsburgh, I'm calling it Pittsbur-uh just to piss you all off.
My wife and I actually called it "Edin"buurrrr" when we were there cause it was so cold and rainy. lol
Moo 👌👌👌
Paul Olstad haha I know Edinburgh very well and it's rare to get 2 warm days in a row lol.
well how the hell is he supposed to know? if you've never heard a word in your life, you're going to pronounce it like it's spelled.
Brandon he said he'd been there so very ignorant of him to still not know.
Have to say, the roads in the UK have deteriorated a lot since your visit! Provided you can read a map you can quite easily go from town to town or city to city but the sat nav will definitely help once you get in a town or city. However, if your sat nav isnt upto date, local authorities may change access to some roads so you cannot use them despite what the sat nav says.
In the uk roundabout you always give way to the right
basically give way to the right on roundabouts. also if someone is crossing your path if on a mini roundabout, give way to them.
It's a good idea to purchase a couple of green "P" plates (signifies new driver) from a garage when driving for the first time in the UK. Other road users will be much more tolerant of any mistakes made.
+simon peters Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Totally ignore this lousy advice.
Seriously.
NuclearWinter2110 not true, you can leave P plates for as long as you want on your car be that a year or 20 years, its all up to you, i wouldn’t advice anyone (even if they just passed their test) to put P plates on their car, once someone sees P plates on a car their attitude changes, they think “theyve just passed their test they know what to do!!!” Then start trying to overtake you in dangerous places. Most people when they see L plates however think “ its fine, theyre learning”.
NuclearWinter2110 i think most people leave them on for 6 months and its “advisory” to leave them on for at least 6 months, most people only put P plates on because their parents told them too. Everyone makes mistakes so no worries, you’ve been told that by your driving instructor, he was in the wrong, My driving instructor told me not to put P plates on my car
My experience. I was a trainee driving instructor, I had so many people performing incredibly dangerous manoeuvres whilst I had L plates on. Including one where I was overtaken whilst coming out of a junction, where the moron had no way of seeing trailing or incoming traffic.
I started to take off the plates off after lessons. People act crazy towards learners and people who have just passed with P plates.
You can only pass through a light on amber if you have already passed the 'stop line' on the road. Unless it was actually red when you hit the intersection you wont get a fine or points on your license.
I don't understand why people don't take a driving test before they get here, like you wouldn't like it if we made silly jokes at people in America for driving it's not funny, and don't honk back and say hello because people here will get out their car and probably punch you 😂😂. And it's not the wrong side of the road, there's no right or wrong side it's the side we drive on.
+Sam Mason Next time I will get a moped!
Haha
why would they take a driving test
Making them take a test is a bit much! A lot of older people driving around in the UK have never taken tests over here anyway.
Although I did laugh at the 'honking back' bit. In the UK, the horn is basically saying 'OI, IDIOT! WATCH WHERE YOU'RE GOING!' to other drivers. So if you make a mistake and get beeped by other drivers, if you beep back at them then you are saying they are the ones who made the mistake and/or it will be viewed as being aggressive after you messed up. Only use your horn if you are worried another person hasn't seen you. If you are just saying 'hello', 'thank you', 'sorry' or 'after you', then either wave your hand or flash your lights (unofficial rules).
Curious, what GPS device did you use? Did you rent it or buy it over there? Buy it in US and took over to UK?
Why is driving in automatic ? oh yes, american ^^
Your Name :)
Klutch I am Dutch, but if I had to rent a car in the uk, I would rent an automatic because changing gear with my left hand is very weird for me :)
scania736
lol, just need an hour for start to shift well with the "other" hand ^^ but i understand that's "special"
scania736 You should find, if you are remotely coordinated, that you get used to it after a couple of hours!
Ha. Manuals are becoming obsolete anyway. I have both but for us Americans, automatics make more sense. We have longer commutes and crappy traffic which does not make driving a manual fun or pleasurable. Now if driving a manual is somehow a badge of honor and a way to poke fun of Americans, than have at it.
I’m slightly concerned that the driver appeared to be holding the camera and messing about with the view while driving, splitting your focus isn’t very safe even for a short time, particularly given the lack of familiarity with our roads
I was holding a beer in one hand and a camera in the other while getting a major blowjob... but I was steering with my knee so it was completely safe.
Your getting in on the correct side
+HSTBEN1 Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
All very good advice! I passed my driving test in York (in the days when Fosse Islands Road had no traffic lights - if not for the courtesy and civility of other drivers, there would have been a 24 hour fistfight there LOL). I would nominate York as one of the toughest cities to drive in.
1 The roads were laid down before the car was invented, and the fastest speed on a road was limited to the speed of your mule. They would also be built for the width of 2 mules passing. They are therefore slow, twisty and a tight fit for your car.
2 Consequently, driving in cities is slow and difficult. (My Australian niece drove 2 miles from my house and crumbled with the stress. She got a Brit to drive in front and 'pilot' her back home.)
3 The cars are smaller than you are used to. They are built to drive and park easier in our congested cities. Parking places are rare-ish, difficult to find and if you do find one, VERY expensive. Small cars give better fuel consumption. Americans are always amazed at the high price of gasoline here.
4 Yes, get a satnav and an automatic car. Coping with the tight twisty roads, driving on the opposite side of the road, operating a manual stick shift, working out what the traffic signs mean and remembering a map could be too many things to think about at one time.
5 Give way, and be courteous. Pedestrians may walk out in front of you at ANY time. The pedestrian is king - and there are many dead ones to attest to the fact (wince). I have never heard of anyone being prosecuted for jaywalking, but many for driving without 'due care and attention'. Keep your speed down - there are speed cameras everywhere. It is a major source of income to the city. Wherever there is a lamp=post and no speed signs, then the limit is 30. I know - I once was caught by a speed camera 30 years ago. I have never done it since. I drove at 42 mph on a totally empty 2X4 lane road in Liverpool and I'm still paying the fine (LOL about the last bit)
6 Use public transport when in cities.It is easier and less nerve jangling. Its also usually much cheaper since there are no parking fees. And the bus guys are a mine of information for the visitor.
7 Yes, drive between cities! UK has some beautiful countryside. I cannot be specific, there is so much it. The Cotswolds, the Lake District, Cornwall, Yorkshire Dales and Moors, the Scottish and Welsh mountains....the list is endless. It may not have the awe of the Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls, but it is, in its own British way, understatedly majestic.(Smile)
8 Look up online. Many British cities have Park and Ride schemes in an attempt to reduce traffic congestion. You park the car on the fringe of the city and get a bus or train to the centre. York is one example,
9 My Australian sister puts an Australian flag sticker on the rear window when she drives in Britain. She thinks that it makes the Brit drivers be a bit more patient and give her more room and expect the unexpected. Equally, it might make her a target for opportunist thieves. The choice is yours.
10 DO NOT LET THE ABOVE DISSUADE YOU. They are just a list of things that you might expect. If it turns out better, then great! Driving is possible and done daily, though rarely enjoyably in our cities. Wouldn't you rather take our good public transport and enjoy the view? I would never drive in London/York/Oxford and many other cities and towns unless I really had to.
Final word. I agree with the comments below about Beverley. Be sure to visit Nellies for a pint. Yes, its a gas-lit, olde-worlde pub. But of course, do not drink (more than one pint of) beer and drive. The legal penalties are extremely harsh, and the social penalties could be harsher (like death). Make someone else the designated driver LOL. Cheers.
OK, so in Britain we have roads so narrow that 2 cars can't pass; one car has to pull over to let the other by. This is how railways operate in America.
+budgie98 Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day!
In old towns the roads are narrow because they were built hundreds of years ago, before cars.
Any new modern areas have wider roads.
I got lots of friends and family that have been to the states and not one of them says anything about driving over there, but it seems to be a massive issue for Americans having to drive in britain. Why?
Mate, Edinburgh is in Scotland not in England
+Morgan Etches down south right?
You could always try reading the road signs!! Every road has a number and the SatNav (GPS ) will tell you and show you. If you think it's hard driving in the UK try Boston, Ma!
Hit the Thumbs up on this comment if you clicked the video because of the Black Civic Type R. 👍✌
Good to see the American perspective. Well done mate. I hope you'll return soon
Love it there - WE WILL be back someday without our kids. :)
Just to let you know man it's Edd in burr ah
Not Edin Burgh
Actually my wife and I call it Edin"buuuur". Very cold when we were there. :)
It's a solid 21 degrees now so it's Edin burrrrn
lol
Did you say it's a manual transmission you're driving or automatic? I'm American and traditionally only driven manuals, until I injured my left arm in a traumatic fall - it's now partially paralyzed, unfortunately. Anyway, I'm not certain (even if I wasn't injured) if I could work a gearshift with my left hand.
I had an automatic but I shifted manually.
Paul Olstad This explains it. I thought you said you recommend an automatic, but I also audibly heard shift points, more than one would expect from an automatic, unless it was a gearless CVT. Thanks for clarifying
York?
Me home city! England represent :D
+a stupid genius Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
I went on a 3 week trip to Great Britain a couple years ago. I drove a diesel manual. (Cheapest car to rent) I'm a manual girl. Shifting through the highlands is.... something I cannot put words to. :, ) It was a Seat, really nice car. Scotland was my absolute FAVORITE place to drive through. I started out in Edinburgh. I was terrified the first day but got used to it fast. There is much more to see when you're on your own.
So typically condescending.
So condescendingly typical.
Git Groove Correction accepted.
+Justin Case Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
if you think roundabouts are bad try the magic roundabout in Swindon or Hemel Hempstead
First thought, that car is way too big to enjoy driving in England; especially B-roads! Get a hatchback next time! :)
+jeffreyser Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
TBH I only occasionally use a GPS. If anything; I found American road signs to be a lot worse than ours! We have a fairly good system of Signage here. I'd only use a GPS for long journeys.
See now, before driving in England, I advise Americans to get used to driving at 130 mph. Americans must be aware that all speed signs in England show the MINIMUM speed at which you should be traveling, NOT the maximum. You can drive as fast as you wish in England. At roundabouts you should always wait for the car to the left of you before moving out. As a general rule, if you are stopped by the police, don't panic. All they want is a small "bribe" 100 to 200 pounds should be sufficient. Fold the money in half and as you are talking to them, drop it at their feet and say "Here's a pound for the piggy". Then tip your hat or cap, and drive away ( remembering to drive over the posted sign minimum limit. Happy Motoring.
Oh you cruel and funny man
York is hard to drive in and near, it's a one way system going into the castle wall and all the way round left to right, unless you drive through the cobbled city centre which when I see it doesn't look legal at all...until you see people! Very very hilly aswel is York.
The trick to England when taking A roads is know the biggest city you're destination is near and possibly a few on the way to make sure and just follow the signs to the big city, the nearer you get you'll begging to see signs for you're area, when in a city stay safe and follow the signs for 'the town centre' or 'the city centre', if it looks busy go find you're car park
Edingberg ????
+Michael T Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
we drive on left as most people are right handed and we needed our free hand to use our sword.
There aren't just roundabouts in the UK - they're all over Europe. In the UK, as you are driving on the left hand side, when you approach the roundabout you give way to traffic from the right. Therefore if you're in mainland Europe you drive on the right hand side and give way to the left. Same principle but switched the other way around.
Next time, try the manual transmission. In Europe the 80% of the cars has manual transmission. :)
Do you press the clutch with your right foot in the UK?
aa516365 Clutch is on the far left. So left foot.
It's against the law here if you only passed in an automatic. To legally drive a manual you must pass your test in one. The converse is not true. You may drive an automatic if you passed in a manual.
Here in the states, it doesn't matter what kind of trans you test with. Driving manual or auto is a choice. And I also hear one of the stereotypes is that most americans drive automatics and can't drive manual. I guess it depends where because pretty much almost everyone here in washington state drives manual or can drive manual :P So I guess the main trans here in the US in general is auto, but there's plenty of manuals as well.
Maktoum Al-Jerazzi Yes, we have these stereotype about Americans :)
By the way, in Hungary if you learnt on an automatic, and took the driving exam with it, a restriction will be written in your driving license, so you mustn't drive manual car until you took a driving exam with a manual. :) That's the rule in our lovely country. :) Anyway I think it's a very good rule, because here nobody stalls, nobody goes slower, because doesn't want to gear up/down. In my town there are very few automatic cars, but I'm happy that I drive the car. Once I've driven an automatic (BMW x6) and after some crossroads I wanted to be in my old Opel Corsa. When you drive automatic I think you lose the feeling of driving. That's why I like manual transmission, and I hope there will be always the ability to choose (I mean I hope there will be manual cars in the future).
NO! Never just rely on your GPS to know which lane to be in, whether it be road, junction or roundabout - regardless of what country you're in.
Read the roadside signs and read the lane markings.
Japan drives on the left, so does Australia and a lot of African countries.
And so does Kiwiland (New Zealand), Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, Macao, most of the Anglo-Caribbean countries, and Guyana (though surrounded by right side ones) and some more that we've probably forgotten LOL
www.worldstandards.eu/cars/list-of-left-driving-countries/
oh kudos to you, i just returned to England from spending 17 years in your country , and to be honest it freaked me out being on the left side of the road, and roundabouts i forgot all about them , you did a really good job.
"Wrong side of the vehicle" no it's not.
It is on the wrong side. It’s so weird.
I took my TomTOm GPS when I was there but not worked as you need to buy new maps so Rental agency gave me one to use.
so you come to the uk and you rent a big ass van m8 its just you driving around your making it harder on your self with all our small lanes ECT
w0bblyc0bbly Haha if I ever visit London I'll rent a Mini Hatch :D
+w0bblyc0bbly Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
And for Americans - what you often have stateside as a brake for parking, you probably won't find a pedal on the floor - its the lever in the middle between the seats most often and you pull it by hand. Getting around without a GPS is easy - we have things in the UK called road signs which give directions. Heaven help you if you visit Wales - its mainly B roads or "unclassified" which are narrow. You are better off with a map and compass. 1 gallon in the US=3.5 litres, whereas 1 Gallon in the UK=4.55 litres so dont be too shocked when you gas up the car. Ive driven most of the eastern US and still prefer driving in the UK in terms of didsance coverable in any given time. Allow an average speed of 38 miles per hour for your journey and you wont be far off in the UK taking in all road types. I avoid motorways like the plague if possible as theres usually a long holdup/tailback/somewhere (pres the TA button on the car radio and you will get traffic updates in your area. Dont trust the satnav data, especially if it hasnt been updated recently. If you rent a car in the UK, check and make sure it has a full size spare wheel rather than a narrow spacesaver type - the spacesavers dont last long and can only be run at lowish speeds. Most of all, when you come here, enjoy. Remember - historic, in the UK does not usually mean anything less than a couple of hundred years old. My house was built in 1531, and many of my books are older than your country for the most part - once out of the towns and cities, almost every village or settlement is, or contains "historic" buildings of one sort or another. Oh, and beer in the UK is made by brewing hops, not mixing chemicals and making it so cold it freezes your teeth.......and be patient - fast food her takes time!
Hank Hill goes to England
+tauwilltriumph Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
What's with the zig-zag stripes on the street--did the painter spend too much time in the pub before work?
Zig-zags before a pedestrians crossing (or outside a school) are there to point out that pedestrians are around. You can't overtake, change lane or park (even unload) on a zig-zag. You can get 3 points on your license (12=banned).
welshspud Do you have to steer in a zig-zag manner while in them? ;)
Greg Barnes lmao that comment did make me giggle, I would laugh harder if I actually saw that happening.
+Greg B Thanks for commenting on my video - certainly was a learning experience driving there for a dumb American like myself. :) If you're so inclined check out my channel here. I'm a musician and computer geek and love making original music videos. My channel is actually becoming quite popular - so maybe you'll like some of my music videos. Subscribe if you like? Have a great day! th-cam.com/users/olstadp
Greg B It means "no stopping".
Im going to America soon for the first time and I have no idea how to drive there xD
It's fun. You'll like it. :)
different lane system.
Of course; nonetheless, still fun. By the way, not only a different lane system, a different steering column design. Parallel parking to changing lanes in a different traffic system while operating on a different side of the car, is a rush. Adrenalin dump with an anxious nerve-racking mind state being set into overdrive.
Its really not hard but rather easy. The roads here are bigger, the interstates and highways are pretty much the same besides the fact the you drive a left drive car on the right side of the road.
When you come to road ways that are 3 lanes each way (6 lane roadway), big rigs(semis/lorries) drive the center to outer lane but only use the inner lane when turning left same goes for a 4 lane roadway (2 lanes each way).
Now, for many new to the States and are use to driving on the left, turning left is always in the middle of the road with the exception of one way roads then turning left is very similar but can get very confusing when turning on to a 2 way road, for that, you just turn onto the right side of the road, into the lane closest to the center of the road. Other than that, it is very basic and easy to get understand after a few intersections or a few minutes, you should get the hang of driving here in the states. Oh and follow the signs, they just so happen to come in very handy for the confusing times.
Oh and I forgot to mention; you bypass a person in the left lane, if you must bypass someone on the right, just watch out for cops and also, be discrete about your right hand side bypass. If you have any other questions, just message me.
-Stephenie
Stephenie Grenoble Thank you so much!
If you plan to move to the UK the law states a foreign licence may be used for 12 months after entry but you must apply for a UK Full Auto or Manual Licence by the end of this period.