Top 5 most unusual UK traffic signs
Published 20 March 2026
Last updated 20 March 2026
Think you know UK road signs? In this blog, we take a look at 5 of the most interesting and surprising ones you may not have noticed.
Have you ever passed a road sign and wondered what it meant? From road signs with hedgehogs to low-flying helicopters (yes, that is a real sign), there are plenty of signs to learn as you begin your riding or driving journey.
In this blog, we’ll be exploring the top 5 most interesting traffic signs in the United Kingdom, as chosen by us.
Have you seen these road signs?
Migratory toad crossing
The first road sign on our list is inspired by World Frog Day: it’s the migratory toad crossing warning sign. This croaking good sign warns road users that migrating toads may be on the road.
Why did the toad cross the road? Well, in this case, it’s almost certainly to get to the other side. Toads tend to migrate to their breeding ponds in spring, which is why it’s important to pay extra attention from the end of January to mid-April. If you see this sign, slow down and scan the road ahead for amphibian hazards.
No vehicles carrying explosives
If you follow our social media channels, you’re bound to have seen the no vehicles carrying explosives road sign in one of our weekly quizzes!
This sign can also be found in certain areas around the United Kingdom, such as residential spots or tunnels. It’s good for learners to know about it since there’s always a chance you’ll see it when your car’s full of fireworks!
Horse-drawn vehicles likely to be in the road
Next in our list of rarities is a regulatory road sign that warns drivers of horse-drawn vehicles in the road.
You might be more used to seeing the ‘accompanied horses or ponies in the road’ sign (that’s the one with the rider on horseback), but there’s no need to worry. If you see a horse-drawn vehicle, apply the same rules you do to horse riders.
- Slow down to a maximum speed of 10mph.
- Be patient.
- Pass the horse and vehicle slowly leaving them at least 2 metres of space.
- Drive away slowly without revving the engine unnecessarily.
You should remember the hierarchy of road users in The Highway Code. This concept puts road users most at risk in the event of a collision at the top of the hierarchy. Horse riders are among the most vulnerable, so take extra care to drive slowly and only overtake when it’s safe to do so.
Start of designated Quiet Lane
You’ll find this traffic sign on some rural roads in England and Wales. It lets you know that the road is shared with all road users. That means you should expect to find walkers, cyclists, horse riders and motor vehicles.
If you see this sign, make sure you drive slowly and keep scanning all around your vehicle for hazards. Children can be especially unpredictable, so you should watch carefully for them.
Route for trams only
Did you know there are only 8 tramways currently in the United Kingdom? That means it’s quite rare to see this traffic sign, unless you live in one of the cities that has them.
Trams can be found in Birmingham, Blackpool, Croydon, Edinburgh, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham and Sheffield. So, if you’re visiting or driving around these cities, knowing what this road sign means is essential so you can follow the rules of the road.
Learn more about UK traffic signs
Whether this is the first time you’ve read about these road signs, or you know them all, make sure you read Know Your Traffic Signs and The Official DVSA Guide to Driving – the essential skills to help refresh your knowledge of the most common UK traffic signs.
In the Know Your Traffic Sign book or app, you’ll learn a brief history of traffic signs, the difference between the 3 basic types of traffic signs, and more!
We hope you’ve found these signs interesting and make sure you keep an eye on our social media channels and blogs for the latest driving and riding tips!
