For cyclists, the challenge of the road is part of its appeal, but for motorists — especially those in larger vehicles — delays and difficulties are so common, they are almost to be expected
A notorious stretch of the B3081 near Shaftesbury in Dorset, aptly named Zig Zag Hill, has earned the reputation as Britain’s “bendiest” road.
With a relentless series of sharp hairpin turns — some almost 180-degrees — as well as steep gradients, it’s a route that tests even the most experienced drivers. In fact, many locals and motoring experts advise motorists to avoid this challenging mile-long climb altogether, especially under adverse conditions.
Zig Zag Hill is infamous for its four tight hairpin turns and a constant gradient of about 13%. Navigating this road can be a nerve-wracking experience, particularly for larger vehicles and those unfamiliar with the route. Visibility is poor around corners, making it a “very, very slow road to navigate, even in a car,” as one driver on theTruckNetUK forum put it.
They added: “Narrow, twisty and nowhere to pass anything — it is a truly awful road to travel and always has been… ANY other route would be better and faster.”
READ MORE: Stop your car from aquaplaning and how to check if you are at risk
When to avoid Zig Zag Hill
In poor weather the risks multiply. Heavy rain can turn the road into a slippery hazard, with water cascading down the hillside increasing the chance of aquaplaning, while snow and ice make the bends even more treacherous. Experts strongly recommend avoiding Zig Zag Hill in such conditions, as controlling speed and direction becomes nearly impossible.
Driving Zig Zag Hill at night is particularly daunting. The sharpness of the turns means headlights often point into the trees rather than illuminating the road ahead, forcing drivers to peer through side windows into the darkness. So, especially for those unfamiliar with the road, tackling it in the dark is ill-advised.
Even in good weather, the road’s design means drivers must stay alert and use low gears to maintain control. For cyclists, the challenge is part of the appeal, but for motorists — especially those in larger vehicles — delays and difficulties are so common, they are almost to be expected.
Motoring experts LeaseCar.uk compiled a survey of the worst routes for drivers across the UK, with Zig Zag Hill described as “resembling a roller coaster” and named the “bendiest one-mile stretch of road in the UK”.
A spokesman for LeaseCar.uk said: “We want motorists heading out on the road this summer to be well prepared and know what sort of roads they may be coming up against. These twisty roads are enough to incite fear in even the most experienced of drivers. Their sheer drops, sharp bends and uneven terrain should definitely be avoided where possible.”
But the route comes with some stunning positives
Despite its dangers, Zig Zag Hill does offers motorists some compensation for all the difficulty — stunning views over the Dorset and Wiltshire countryside await them when they reach the summit, with a parking area for drivers to catch their breath and take in the scenery.
The road’s alignment dates back to the 19th century, when it was constructed to avoid the deep ruts of ancient drovers’ tracks. Its steep, winding course has remained largely unchanged, preserving both its historical character and its reputation as a formidable driving challenge.
Maintaining Zig Zag Hill is a significant challenge for the Council. In 2019, the road required deep excavation and resurfacing due to the wear and tear caused by constant braking and tight cornering. The work was so extensive the road had to be closed around the clock for nearly two weeks, with all traffic diverted to surrounding routes.
Zig Zag Hill is a unique and memorable part of the UK’s road network, but its dangers are real and well-documented. For many motorists, the advice is simple — it’s safer to steer clear of Britain’s bendiest road, especially when you don’t have the weather on your side.
Do you have a story to share? Email us at [email protected] for a chance to be featured.
