This 9.9-mile route takes about 33 minutes and has the most traffic signals (12) of any Hornchurch route, looping south through Elm Park to Rainham Road and back via Berwick Pond Road. It shares a nearly identical path with Route #427, but #426 has 12 signals versus #427' + chr(39) + 's 10, and a slightly different turn pattern (3 left, 3 right versus 3 left, 4 right). Speeds range from 20 to 40 mph with extensive 20 mph zones.

Watch Out For

• Pedestrian crossing on Upper Rainham Road. Shared with Route #421. Approach with caution and check for pedestrians waiting to cross.
• New Road junction. Busy junction in a 30 mph zone near Rainham. Multiple lanes merge here. Position correctly on approach.
• Bridge Road. Narrow road with potential for queuing traffic. Avoid blocking junctions and leave space for turning vehicles.

Route Features

• 8 left turns, 3 right turns, 4 roundabouts, 12 sets of traffic lights.
• 12 traffic signals, the highest count of all Hornchurch routes. Two more than Route #427
• 11 turns (8 left, 3 right) and 4 roundabouts
• Extensive 20 mph residential zones through Suttons Avenue area
• 40 mph sections along Hacton Lane and Berwick Pond Road

Test Manoeuvres

• Pull up on the left near the test centre. Check for cyclists before pulling in.

Key Tips

• With 12 traffic signals, anticipate light changes and avoid rushing through amber lights. Being caught on a red is better than running an amber.
• The 20 mph zones are extensive. Set your speed early and maintain it steadily. Dipping below 15 mph is unnecessary, but exceeding 24 mph risks a fault.
• This route is almost identical to #427. If you practise one, you have effectively practised both.