The shortest route from St Albans at 9.8 km, completed in just 24 minutes. It heads south through Cottonmill, Sopwell, and St Julians before reaching the North Orbital Road (A405) at 70 mph, then returns via Watford Road and Holywell Hill. Despite its short distance, the speed range of 20-70 mph packs in significant variety. 3 roundabouts, 10 traffic signals, and 17 turns make this a compact but demanding test.

Watch Out For

• North Orbital Road (A405). 70 mph dual carriageway, same as Route #770. Build speed on the slip road and merge confidently. Undertaking in the left lane is a serious fault.
• Tippendell Lane junction. Give way when turning onto faster traffic. Limited visibility from the side road.
• Second give way near Tippendell Lane. Two give way points in quick succession. Do not assume the road is clear after the first one.
• Holywell Hill. Steep descent into St Albans town centre. Use engine braking and maintain control. Traffic queues at the bottom near the junction.
• Holyrood Crescent. Residential loop in Sopwell with narrow turns. Watch for children and pedestrians near parked cars.

Route Features

• 9 left turns and 8 right turns, 17 total.
• 3 roundabouts.
• 10 sets of traffic lights.
• Speed range: 20-70 mph. The second of only three St Albans routes reaching 70 mph.
• Shortest route from this centre at 9.8 km.

Test Manoeuvres

• Pull up on the left near the test centre.

Key Tips

• The route shares the A405 section with Route #770. If you have practised #770, the dual carriageway portion will feel familiar.
• On Abbots Avenue and surrounding streets, keep to 20 mph. These are residential roads with frequent driveways.