American tourists have been shown exactly how to act on Britain's roads as demand for trips explodes. 2024 saw a record number of Americans heading to the UK with an estimated 5.6 million visits.
Research by car rental firm Turo shows that August 2025 saw an 8% year-on-year increase in rental days booked by US travellers in the UK. In the video, host Freddie Brown explained all the quirks of the UK road system from roundabouts to country lanes. He also touched on how to address road users with the proper courtesy in a knowledgeable boost to those heading over for tourism this autumn and winter.
Standing in front of a yellow box speed camera, Freddie warned: "Be careful of these things, they're always watching."
Freddie said: “At roundabouts, we don't yield, we give way to the right. Kind of like shopping trolleys in Marks and Spencers. A face off in a tight country lanes, the ballet of passing cars, make sure to wave politely as you pass.
“Driving does get frustrating, here are some ways to express disappointment on our roads. A shake of the head, a flash of the lights, a pip on the horn or a little mutter.”
According to the latest research by Turo of 2,000 drivers, 34% of road users shake their head "like a disappointed headmaster" when cut off. Meanwhile, data shows that 16% of British road users actually apologise when someone else hits their vehicle.
Rory Brimmer, UK Managing Director at Turo said: "British driving culture has many unwritten rules which could mystify visitors. Our research shows just how ingrained these behaviours are – from the ceremonial roundabout dance to the elaborate thank-you protocols.
“For American visitors, understanding these nuances isn't just about courtesy - it's about avoiding the withering looks of disappointed British drivers."
Turo analysis shows that 74% of UK drivers treat roundabout etiquette "like a queue at a supermarket" and giving way with patience.
Meanwhile, 57% of drivers "wait serenely" when stuck behind agricultural vehicles on roads, with just 12% wanting to make a fuss and beep their horns.
Freddie added: “Having dedicated many pots of tea to discussing driving etiquette with American visitors I have decided that there is a completely new nonverbal language installed in every driver in the UK. Simple gestures and actions inferring passionate emotions and communicating simple messages.”
