If you ask a group of professional drivers about the best and worst roads in the UK, you do not have to wait long for opinions. Certain routes are praised for being smooth, predictable and well designed, while others are known for congestion, roadworks or awkward junctions.
At Bluestones 360, our consultants speak to drivers every day about the routes they love – and the ones they would happily avoid if they could. While everyone has their own favourites, some common themes appear.
Roads drivers tend to enjoy
- Well-maintained motorways – Clear signage, sensible junction layouts and good surfaces can make a real difference to stress levels.
- Scenic A-roads – Rural routes with good visibility and gentle bends often make for a more pleasant drive, especially in decent weather.
- Routes with reliable services – Having access to safe parking, clean facilities and a decent coffee goes a long way on long-distance work.
Routes that drivers find challenging
- Congested city approaches – Stop–start traffic, bus lanes, restricted turns and tight delivery windows can make these stretches particularly demanding.
- Narrow rural lanes – When HGVs meet parked cars, tractors and blind bends, patience and skill are tested.
- Sections with constant roadworks – Temporary speed limits, lane closures and confusing signage can add time and frustration.
Timing matters as much as tarmac
Drivers often point out that a road can feel completely different depending on when you use it. A route that is straightforward at 5am can be slow and stressful at 5pm. Planning around rush hours, school times and local events can sometimes be just as important as the route itself.
Listening to the people behind the wheel
Companies that actively seek and act on driver feedback often find smarter ways to plan work. Small adjustments – such as changing a junction used for turnarounds or slightly shifting loading times – can have a big impact on how a day feels.
At Bluestones 360, partnership is at the heart of what we do. We listen carefully to what drivers and clients tell us about routes, working patterns and expectations, and we use that insight to match people with roles that make sense for them.
