The Swindon Magic Roundabout: Everything You Need to Know

What is the Swindon Magic Roundabout?

The Magic Roundabout in Swindon, Wiltshire, is one of the most unique and famous road junctions in the United Kingdom. Officially named the County Islands Roundabout, this extraordinary traffic system consists of five mini-roundabouts arranged in a circle around a central anti-clockwise roundabout. Opened in September 1972, it has become an iconic landmark and a source of both fascination and trepidation for drivers.

The History of the Magic Roundabout

The Magic Roundabout was designed by Frank Blackmore of the British Transport and Road Research Laboratory (now TRL) to replace the old Drove Roundabout, which had seen numerous accidents and was considered dangerous. The innovative design was implemented to improve traffic flow and reduce accidents at this busy junction near Swindon's County Ground football stadium.

When it first opened in 1972, police officers were stationed at each of the five mini-roundabouts during the pilot phase to assist drivers and manage the new, unfamiliar design. The roundabout quickly gained its nickname "Magic Roundabout" from the popular children's television series of the same name, and the name eventually became official, even appearing on direction signs.

How Does the Magic Roundabout Work?

The Magic Roundabout's design is ingeniously simple once you understand it:

• Central Roundabout: Traffic flows anti-clockwise around the inner central circle
• Five Mini-Roundabouts: Traffic flows clockwise around each of the five outer mini-roundabouts
• Flexible Routing: Drivers can take the shortest route between entry and exit points, reducing time spent on the junction

This unique design allows drivers to navigate directly to their destination without having to go all the way around a traditional roundabout, making it more efficient than conventional roundabout systems.

How to Navigate the Magic Roundabout

For first-time visitors, the Magic Roundabout can seem daunting. Here are some essential tips for navigating it safely:

1. Take your time: Don't rush - approach slowly and observe the traffic flow
2. Give way to the right: Standard roundabout rules apply to each mini-roundabout
3. Plan your route: Know which exit you need before entering
4. Watch for pedestrians: Be extra vigilant for pedestrians crossing between the mini-roundabouts
5. Stay calm: If you miss your exit, you can easily go around again

The key is to treat each mini-roundabout individually while being aware of the overall traffic flow. Many locals find it much easier to navigate than it appears, and the design actually reduces congestion compared to traditional roundabouts.

Safety Record and Reputation

Despite its intimidating appearance and fearsome reputation, the Magic Roundabout has recorded relatively few accidents over its 50+ year history and is largely considered a successful traffic management solution. However, its unique design has earned it a place in British motoring folklore.

In a 2007 survey, it was voted the seventh most feared road junction in England, and in 2009 it was voted the fourth-scariest junction in Britain. Despite these fears, the roundabout's safety record speaks for itself - the innovative design has proven effective at managing traffic while maintaining safety standards.

Location and Access

The Magic Roundabout is located in central Swindon, near the County Ground football stadium. It connects several major roads including:

• Drove Road
• County Road
• Fleming Way
• Shrivenham Road
• Queens Drive

The junction is easily accessible by car and is well-signposted. For those visiting Swindon, it's worth seeing this unique piece of British engineering history, even if you're just observing from the pavement rather than driving through it.

Why is it Called the Magic Roundabout?

The roundabout's nickname comes from the popular 1970s children's television series "The Magic Roundabout", which featured characters like Dougal the dog, Zebedee, and Florence. The name stuck because the roundabout's design seemed almost magical in its complexity and efficiency. What started as an unofficial nickname has now become the official name, recognised on road signs and in official documentation.

Cultural Significance

The Magic Roundabout has become an integral part of Swindon's identity. It's featured in numerous travel guides, television programmes, and has been the subject of countless social media posts and videos. For many, it represents Swindon's innovative spirit and willingness to try new solutions to traffic problems.

The roundabout has also inspired similar designs in other locations, though none have achieved quite the same fame as Swindon's original. It stands as a testament to British engineering innovation and has become a must-see attraction for visitors to the town.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Magic Roundabout dangerous?

Despite its fearsome reputation, the Magic Roundabout has a good safety record with relatively few accidents. The design is actually quite effective at managing traffic flow safely.

Can I walk around the Magic Roundabout?

Yes, there are pedestrian crossings and footpaths around the roundabout. However, exercise extreme caution when crossing, especially between the mini-roundabouts.

When was the Magic Roundabout built?

The Magic Roundabout opened in September 1972, making it over 50 years old as of 2024.

Are there other Magic Roundabouts?

Similar designs exist in other locations, including Hemel Hempstead, but Swindon's Magic Roundabout is the original and most famous. The design has been replicated in a few other UK locations, but none have achieved the same iconic status.