If you’re ever wandering past the iconic Savoy Hotel on Strand, you may catch sight of taxis and cars curiously veering into Savoy Court. This quirky road makes drivers feel as though they’ve suddenly whizzed off to Europe – but not because of the scenery.
Surprisingly, this small section defies standard UK driving rules demanding motorists to stay right-hand side like our continental cousins. While not unique in Britain (with Hammersmith bus station and the car park at Victoria Station sharing this trait), it’s frequently highlighted as a prominent exception to British driving norms.
The reason for this goes back over a century, rooted in practicality rather than rebelliousness. The truth is, the layout of the Savoy Hotel entrance is much more practical when entered and exited on the right-hand side.
The road favours driving on the right to make it easier for guests to get into the hotel
A spokesperson from The Savoy explained to The Guardian: “For more than 100 years now vehicles, be they horse drawn or mechanical, have entered and left ‘Savoy Court’ on the right-hand side of the road. This is due primarily to the construction of the ‘court’. When approaching and leaving the hotel it is easier to do so while driving on the right-hand side of the road.”
They continued: “Savoy Court is privately owned property. It is not a public thoroughfare as it leads only to the hotel itself. Therefore driving on the right-hand side of the road does not contravene British traffic regulations.”
He further clarified that typically, a lady or dignitary would sit behind the driver on the right side of the car. This arrangement allows the doorman to smoothly open the door and let her exit directly into the hotel without having to walk around the vehicle.
The UK’s preference for driving on the left is believed to be a Roman invention. However, the most widely accepted theory suggests that travellers would keep to the left to have their sword hand free in case of an attack from an approaching traveller. This practice wasn’t made law until the 18th century when the increase in horse traffic necessitated enforcement.
Stay updated on the latest travel news for London’s roads, trains, and buses with our London Traffic and Travel newsletter. Sign up HERE.