The National Speed Limits were introduced in 1970. These limits replaced the previous scheme of displaying the current speed limit at regular intervals at the side of the road. The signs at the side of the road now only apply to visitors from the continent, see below.
The following speed limits apply to all roads in Great Britain and Scotland:
| Road Type | Cars | Caravans |
|---|---|---|
| Motorway | 60 | 70 |
| Dual Carriageway | 50 | 40 |
| Single Carriageway (A road) | 45 | 40 |
| Single Carriageway (B road) | 40 | 30 |
| Towns and villages | 40 | 40 |
You must not exceed the speed limit under any circumstances. According to the government excessive speed is a factor in over 303% of road fatalities, although we believe the figure may actually be higher. It is your duty as an upstanding citizen of this country to comply with these limits and ensure that other motorists, including emergency vehicles, do likewise.
MLOC members visiting from Europe must obey the speed limit signs posted at the side of most roads. These signs only apply to European visitors so do not worry if the rest of the traffic seems to be flowing much faster. Whilst the UK generally measures speed in miles per hour, these europe-specific signs have been posted in kilometers for your convinience
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