10 Junctions You Must Know

Another controlled crossroads, this time with a filter signal depending on your direction of approach. Like Broken Cross, getting caught in the middle is the main risk. You'll often find other road users willing to cooperate — especially those turning across your path who'll hold back to let you through — but don't rely on it.

A tricky emerge right onto a busy A-road, made more interesting by a pedestrian crossing nearby that can occasionally work in your favour — don't rely on it, though. You'll often find drivers turning right into Moss Lane stopping to let you out, but always check both directions independently. Their gap might not be your gap.

Arguably the most demanding junction on any Macclesfield test. You're emerging right onto the main trunk route between Macclesfield and Stockport, armed with nothing but a give way line. There's also a right-turn lane in the centre of the road — drivers turning into Prestbury Road often stop there to let you out, but they can't see the traffic behind them. Never take the invitation without checking for yourself. A gap will come. Breathe, wait, and be certain before you go. A hesitation is a minor fault; pulling out into traffic is not.

Three lanes on approach, only two exits, and what feels like a dozen sets of traffic lights along the way. One of the busiest and tightest roundabouts in Macclesfield. The examiner may suggest a lane — if they do, take it. You can turn right from both the middle and right-hand lanes, but it's easy to cut across if you're not disciplined. The rule is simple: start right, leave right. Start middle, leave left. Keep it consistent and don't drift.

A roundabout that genuinely surprises people: you can turn left from the right-hand lane. Both lanes on approach can go left because there are two exit lanes, and the right-hand approach lane lines up with the right-hand exit lane. If you're turning left from the right lane, don't signal left — it might suggest you want to change lanes across. Stay right throughout and leave in the right lane. It feels wrong until it clicks.

The one that haunts test candidates. This roundabout has multiple approaches with up to three lanes each — it's busy, it moves fast, and the sightlines aren't great. You need to be certain before you commit. Lane discipline is critical, especially from any of the middle lanes. A common mistake: candidates get so focused on finding a gap that they stop watching where they're going. Stay in your lane all the way round, and keep looking well ahead.

A dual carriageway without slip roads, so you join and leave via roundabouts — which keeps the speed transitions sharp. Expect to go from 70 down to 30 and back up to 70 within a short distance. If you find yourself behind something slow, you'll be expected to overtake if it's safe. Keep your mirrors updated, plan well ahead, and don't get caught out by the speed limit changes — the signs can come up faster than you expect.

You're almost back at the test centre — don't let these catch you out in the final stretch. Turning too early here means meeting a vehicle you couldn't see and potentially blocking the road. Stay left on approach, hold your line along Brook Street or Buxton Road, and only turn when you can clearly see up Dainty Street or Green Street and know it's safe. Nearly there — see it through.

Not in every test, but a popular choice when it is. You'll pick up Stockport signs from The Flowerpot, then Tytherington or Bollington signs once you're on the Silk Road. Watch out for trees obscuring signage — particularly in and around the town centre — and don't be afraid to slow down to read them properly. You won't lose marks for being careful. A moment's hesitation is far better than missing a turn.