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Driving Lessons in Lordswood
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Lordswood instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Lordswood with DVSA-approved instructors who know local test routes inside out. Whether you’re a beginner or refreshing your skills, Rated Driving connects you with trusted instructors for flexible, affordable driving lessons.
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Autumn Savings Are Here!
Autumn Sale!
This autumn, we're offering fantastic deals to help you hit the road:
- Save up to £110 on driving lessons when you book a 40-hour block.
- Earn £10 cashback for every paying friend you refer, directly to your bank or PayPal.
- Enjoy a 4.5% discount when you book 30 hours or more.
Take advantage of these seasonal savings and start your journey today!
Learner Driver Reviews in Lordswood 🙏
See why our learners in Lordswood love Rated Driving ♥️
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Passed First Time in Lordswood – Thanks to Rated Driving!
I never thought I’d enjoy driving, but Rated Driving in Lordswood changed that. Great instructor, great tips, and a big confidence boost – I passed with ease!
Jake B
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Friendly and Professional Instructors in Lordswood
My experience with Rated Driving in Lordswood was incredible. The lessons were structured, and my instructor made learning fun. I passed on my first try!
Liam V
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Confident Behind the Wheel in Lordswood
Rated Driving in Lordswood made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Grace X
Learning to drive in Lordswood
Lordswood is ideal for learners. Quiet back roads build confidence, while busy town centres sharpen practical skills.
- Town Centre Navigation: Tackle busy high streets, junctions and roundabouts - ideal for building confidence and quick decision-making.
- Residential Skills: Hone your skills on clutch control tips by practicing on quiet residential roads for skill-building.
- Dual Carriageway Experience: Get used to faster roads and lane discipline - including how to join, exit and keep calm at speed.
- Rural Roads: Practice tight bends, blind spots and country lanes - all great for sharpening your awareness and reactions.
- Test Route Familiarity: Your instructor will help you cover local test routes in Lordswood, so you’ll know what to expect and how to handle each section without second guessing.
Learning to drive is a significant milestone, and choosing the right location for your lessons can make all the difference. For those in Kent, Lordswood offers an ideal environment to master the roads, and Rated Driving is here to guide you every step of the way. Lordswood, a southern suburb of Chatham, provides a fantastic blend of road types, perfect for developing a comprehensive skill set behind the wheel.
One of the key benefits of taking driving lessons in Lordswood is the sheer convenience and accessibility it offers. Situated approximately three miles south of Chatham town centre, Lordswood boasts good access routes to motorways, which is invaluable for gaining experience on faster roads once you’re ready. Your Rated Driving instructor will expertly navigate you through the quieter residential streets of Lordswood, allowing you to confidently practice essential manoeuvres like parallel parking and three-point turns without the pressure of heavy traffic. As your skills progress, you’ll move onto busier main roads such as Lordswood Lane and Walderslade Road, tackling junctions and roundabouts that will prepare you for diverse driving scenarios. You might even venture onto parts of the A229, gaining crucial experience on dual carriageways.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Lordswood offers a pleasant backdrop for your driving journey. After a focused lesson, you could unwind with a visit to the Lordswood Leisure Centre, which is close to The Martyn Grove woodland, or perhaps catch a game at Lordswood F.C. at Martyn Grove. These local attractions provide a great way to relax and reflect on your progress in Lordswood.
When it comes to taking your practical driving test, the nearest centre to Lordswood is the Gillingham Driving Test Centre. This centre is located at Unit 1, Astra Park, Courteney Road, Gillingham, ME8 0RZ. Your Rated Driving instructor will ensure you are familiar with the typical test routes around Gillingham, giving you the best possible chance of a first-time pass. You can find more information about booking your practical test on the official GOV.UK website: Find a driving test centre.
Before you can book your practical test, you’ll need to pass your theory test. The nearest theory test centre to Lordswood is the Chatham Theory Test Centre. This centre is conveniently located at Pearson Professional Centre, 14-16 High St, Chatham, ME4 4EP. Your Rated Driving instructor can provide resources and guidance to help you prepare for this crucial step. You can book your theory test and find more details on the GOV.UK website: Find a theory test centre.
Choosing Lordswood for your driving lessons means opting for a location that provides varied road conditions, local amenities for relaxation, and convenient access to both practical and theory test centres. With Rated Driving, you’ll receive expert, patient instruction tailored to your needs, ensuring you become a confident and safe driver. Don’t delay your journey to independence; take the wheel and book your driving lessons in Lordswood with Rated Driving today.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Lordswood
Maidstone Practical Driving Test Centre
Unit 1 North Court, South Park Business Village, Armstrong Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6JZ
Gillingham Practical Driving Test Centre
Unit 1, Astra Park, Courteney Road, Gillingham, Kent, ME8 0RZ
Tunbridge Wells Practical Driving Test Centre
8 Upper Grosvenor Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 2ES
Unsure Which Package is Right for You?
Not sure how many hours you need? We’ve broken it down to help you choose based on where you're at. Still stuck? Speak to our team on the live chat or give us a call on 0330 043 9896 (the same number for our business WhatsApp)
Public Transport Guidance
Getting to Lordswood for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
If you’re travelling to Lordswood for your driving lessons, public transport offers convenient access. From towns like Winchester, Bournemouth, or Portsmouth, direct South Western Railway services frequently arrive at Southampton Central. From Salisbury, Great Western Railway (GWR) offers services to Southampton Central. CrossCountry trains connect Southampton to further afield cities like Oxford, Birmingham, and Manchester.
Once at Southampton Central, Lordswood is easily reachable by bus. Bluestar operates direct bus services, such as the Bluestar 21, from Central Station to Bassett Sainsburys, taking approximately 9 minutes. Other Bluestar services like the 7, 19, and 19a also serve Lordswood, with stops like Tanners Brook and Woburn Road Flyover. Unilink also offers services to Lordswood.
For the best fares to Southampton, book your train tickets in advance and consider travelling during Off-Peak hours (outside Monday-Friday rush hours and anytime on weekends). Peak times, generally 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on weekdays, can be busier. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
For learner drivers heading to Lordswood, several bus services offer convenient access. From Southampton city centre, both Bluestar and Unilink operate direct bus services to Lordswood. The Bluestar bus from Above Bar to Woburn Road Flyover takes approximately 28 minutes and departs every 20 minutes. Unilink also services this route every 30 minutes. The Bluestar routes 7, 19, 19a, and 21 all serve Lordswood, with stops like Tanners Brook and Woburn Road Flyover. The Bluestar 19 connects Thornhill, Woolston, Southampton, Shirley, General Hospital, and Lordswood.
If you’re coming from areas like Eastleigh, Romsey, Totton, or Winchester, Bluestar services will take you into Southampton city centre, from where you can connect to Lordswood. For those in Fareham and Gosport, First Southampton City Reds connect to Southampton, providing a link to Lordswood. Xelabus also offers local services around areas like Bitterne and Shirley, and between Eastleigh and Hedge End, which may connect to routes serving Lordswood.
For optimal travel to Lordswood, aim for off-peak hours to avoid traffic congestion. Peak hours, typically 7 AM – 10 AM and 4 PM – 7 PM on weekdays, can significantly increase journey times. You can purchase bus tickets directly from the bus operator or explore options on Trainline or Arriva UK Bus.
Fun Fact About Lordswood
Lordswood, Southampton, was historically farmland within the Manor of Millbrook until the 20th century. Interestingly, Lordswood House, demolished in 1972, was once owned by the Barker-Mill family, who also owned Mottisfont Abbey, and two of its fireplaces were thought to have originated from there.
For more, visit Lordswood.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Lordswood. Choose from our discounted packages below and begin your driving lessons today!
Refresher Course
Save
2.7%
Experience level
You’ve done plenty of lessons before and just need to sharpen up before your test. A final push to get you over the line.
The 10 hour driving course on average takes 2 - 5 days/weeks.
Intermediate Course
Save
4.5%
Experience level
You’re halfway there - you’ve got the basics, but need structured time to build confidence and polish key skills.
The 20 hour driving course on average takes 1 - 10 weeks to complete.
Intermediate Course
Save
5%
Experience level
You’ve started learning but still need time behind the wheel to feel truly confident. This one bridges the gap.
The 30 hour driving course on average takes 1 - 15 weeks to complete.
Beginner Course
Save
5.5%
Experience level
You’re starting from scratch, and this is the full journey - from your first lesson through to test day.
The 40 hour driving course on average takes 1 - 20 weeks to complete.
Our Lordswood driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Lordswood and surrounding areas, carefully selected to match your learning style, schedule, and preferences.
Choose a male or female instructor you’ll feel comfortable with
Local-route experts – every instructor knows Lordswood’s test routes inside out
Multi-language support – several instructors teach in additional languages
Learn in a manual or automatic - whichever gets you confident faster
All instructors are fully DBS-checked and DVSA-registered
Many specialise in helping nervous learners feel at ease behind the wheel
Evening and weekend lessons available for tight schedules
Why Choose Rated Driving for Driving Lessons in Lordswood?
Whether you're learning from scratch or helping someone else get started, finding the right instructor can feel overwhelming. That’s where we step in. At Rated Driving, we connect you with trusted DVSA-registered instructors who know Lordswood’s roads inside out - so you can learn faster and pass with confidence.
- Local Experts, Ready to Go:
Over 212 DVSA-registered driving instructors across Kent including Lordswood, Kemsing, Otford & Southborough.
- Pick What Works for You: Male or female instructors. Manual or automatic. You choose - we arrange.
- All Types of Lessons: Including Pass Plus & motorway driving lessons
- Reviews You Can Trust: Over 20,000 learners passed through us. Rated Excellent on Trustpilot (4.8/5) and Google (4.9/5).
- No Match? No Risk: We want all our learners to have a great experience with us, if you are not happy after your first lesson, let us know and we will refund you with our money-back guarantee. (T&C’s apply).
- Track Everything in the App: Use our award-winning app to manage bookings, log progress and prep for test day.
Which Option is Right For You?
Where to start?
Looking to learn to drive in Lordswood? Whether you prefer automatic or manual, there are plenty of flexible lesson options available. Simply type in your postcode and submit your enquiry to be matched with a expert local DVSA-registered driving instructor in your area.
🤔 How many driving lessons will I need?
The DVSA says most people need about 40 hours of professional lessons, plus private practice. We'll help tailor your schedule to build confidence efficiently.
- The DVSA recommends about 45 hours of professional lessons and 22 hours of private practice for most learners.
- Some learners feel confident sooner, others need more time.
- Your instructor will monitor your progress and advise when you’re test-ready.
- Practice regularly for the best results.
- Everyone learns at their own pace.
Some learners feel test-ready in 30 hours. Others need more time to build confidence behind the wheel. What really matters isn’t the total - it’s the consistency.
The more often you drive, the more natural it becomes. Combining quality instructor lessons with regular practice builds confidence quickly.
Every learner progresses at their own pace, and that’s perfectly normal. Your instructor will adapt to your comfort level and guide you through each step with patience.
🧐 How to prepare for your first driving lesson
Getting ready for your first driving lesson is an exciting step - and a bit of preparation can help you feel more confident and relaxed on the day. Here’s a simple guide to help you make the most of it:
1. Check Your Provisional Licence
Before your lesson, make sure you have a valid provisional driving licence. Your instructor will need to see it to confirm you’re legally allowed to drive.
2. Get Familiar with the Basics
Take a few minutes to learn the basic layout of a car - the pedals, gear stick, steering wheel, and mirrors. Watching a short video or reading a beginner’s guide can help you feel more prepared.
3. Choose Comfortable Clothing
Wear clothes that allow you to move freely and flat-soled shoes that give you good control of the pedals. Avoid anything bulky or restrictive.
4. Bring the Essentials
Have your provisional licence with you, along with glasses or contact lenses if you need them to drive. A bottle of water is also a good idea to stay hydrated.
5. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Feeling well-rested will help you stay focused and alert throughout your lesson.
6. Brush Up on the Highway Code
A quick review of key road signs, speed limits, and basic driving rules can give you a boost in confidence before you get behind the wheel. [download The Highway Code 2025 PDF]
7. Keep Your Expectations Realistic
Your first lesson is all about getting familiar with the car and starting to build your skills. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect - take it one step at a time.
With the right preparation and a calm mindset, you’ll be off to a great start.
🙏 What to expect on your first driving lesson
Your first driving lesson is a key milestone - it's where everything begins. The goal is to help you feel comfortable, introduce you to the car, and give you your first taste of driving. Here’s what typically happens during your first session:
1. Meet Your Instructor
You’ll meet your DVSA-registered driving instructor, who will check your provisional licence and have a quick chat about any experience or knowledge you already have.
2. Go Through the Cockpit Drill (DSSSM)
Before driving, you'll go through a quick safety routine to get set up properly:
- Doors - Make sure all doors are securely closed.
- Seat - Adjust your seat so you can reach the pedals comfortably.
- Steering - Adjust the steering wheel to suit your position.
- Seatbelt - Buckle up for safety.
- Mirrors - Position your mirrors for a clear view around the car.
3. Learn the Basic Car Controls
Your instructor will show you the key controls, including:
- Accelerator, brake, and clutch (if you're learning in a manual)
- Gear stick, handbrake, and indicators
- Other essentials like lights and wipers
4. Practice Moving Off and Stopping
You’ll start with the basics:
- How to start the engine safely
- Checking mirrors and blind spots
- Moving off smoothly and bringing the car to a controlled stop
5. Drive on Quiet Roads
If you're ready, your instructor may take you to a quiet area to practice simple driving skills like steering, gear changes, and stopping calmly.
6. Feedback and Next Steps
At the end of the lesson, your instructor will talk you through what went well and what to work on next time. This feedback helps you build confidence and track your progress.
Top Tips from our Experienced DVSA Approved Driving Instructor Experts
Q: How do I handle roundabouts without panicking?
"Stay calm by following the MSPSL routine (Mirrors, Signal, Position, Speed, Look) and always look right on approach. Practice with mini roundabouts first, then build up to larger ones using diagrams and videos for support."
Reginos Theodotou
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 20 years.
Q: What’s the correct way to check mirrors and signal?
"Check your mirrors before any change in direction, speed, or overtaking - act safely on what you see. Only signal if necessary, and make sure it’s correctly timed and clear."
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I stay calm before and during my driving lessons?
"Take deep breaths, remind yourself it's okay to make mistakes, and trust your instructor."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Is it easier to pass your driving test in an automatic car?
"Yes it much easier to pass in an automatic than a manual car. It’s especially effective for nervous drivers."
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What's the best way to learn clutch control?
"Practice clutch control in a quiet area by finding the bite point in first gear with light gas, checking all around (including blind spots), then releasing the handbrake. Read More
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Why do some people choose automatic over manual?
"Some people choose automatic because it's quicker to learn, less stressful, and easier to practise if they have access to an automatic car.
Read More
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What should I do if I make a mistake while driving?
"Stay calm, don’t panic - your instructor is there to help. Just learn from it and keep going."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I stop stalling at junction and roundabout?
"To avoid stalling at junctions and roundabouts, plan ahead, use the correct gear and speed, and anticipate when you’ll need to move.Read More
Mali Summers
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: How do I handle roundabouts without panicking?
"Knowledge, understanding when to go and when to wait."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
Q: How can I build my confidence if I’m a nervous driver?
"Practice regularly, start in quiet areas, and focus on small wins each lesson."
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What do most people fail their driving test on?
"Interactions with others, junctions, meeting and roundabouts."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
Q: How many lessons does it really take to pass?
"It depends on the person, but most people need around 40–50 hours with a qualified instructor I have achieved 32 to 36 hours"
Shorif Kazi
DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: Can I drive a manual car if I pass in an automatic?
"If you pass in an automatic, you CANNOT unfortunately drive a manual car."
Mari Wright
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor.
Q: What’s the number one mistake learners make?
"Trying to hard to be perfect. Mistakes are part of life."
Graham Morgan
A-Grade DVSA Approved Driving Instructor for 15 years.
🏆 Pass Guarantee
Pass first time or they will refund you your £23! See test fee back! T&Cs apply
HAVEN'T PASSED YOUR THEORY TEST YET?
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Start studying now, Download today.
1600+ DVSA-Registered Driving Instructors
Excellent Learner Driver Reviews
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WHAT CAN I GET
Lordswood Driving School Services
Learn to drive with the Rated Driving app
Manage every lesson, payment, and message in one place. Rated Driving connects you with a local instructor - so you stay focused on learning, not chasing responses.
Book Now
Block discount booking
Why pay more? When you block book your driving lessons, you unlock exclusive local discounts - without sacrificing quality. Smart learners book ahead and save. We’ll handle the rest.
Check Discounts
Female driving instructors Lordswood
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Lordswood who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Lordswood
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Lordswood who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Lordswood
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Lordswood ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Lordswood.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Lordswood today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Lordswood, Kent
Are you looking for the top driving lessons in nearby locations? Rated Driving also offers driving lessons in nearby areas, including:
Driving lessons in Lordswood FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions in Lordswood, and how will Rated Driving prepare me for them?
Lordswood, part of Medway, offers a mix of urban and rural roads, providing varied driving conditions. You’ll encounter residential streets, main roads like Lordswood Road, and potentially rural routes towards areas such as Walderslade or Cuxton, which include narrow country lanes and national speed limit roads. Your Rated Driving instructor will tailor lessons to these local conditions, ensuring you gain confidence on all types of roads you’re likely to encounter in and around Lordswood.
Where are the nearest driving test centres to Lordswood, and will my lessons cover routes for them?
The nearest practical driving test centre to Lordswood is in Gillingham, specifically at Unit 1, Astra Park, Courteney Road, ME8 0RZ. Another nearby option is the Maidstone test centre. Your Rated Driving instructor will be familiar with the local test routes for these centres and will ensure your lessons provide ample practice on roads and junctions similar to those you’ll encounter during your test.
How do I book driving lessons in Lordswood with Rated Driving, and what payment options are available?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Lordswood is straightforward. You can book online 24/7 or call us. We offer flexible scheduling and local instructor matching. For payment, there is no deposit or upfront cost required for standard driving lessons, and you can pay as you go. You can also save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk.
What advice does Rated Driving offer for complete beginners learning to drive in Lordswood?
For complete beginners in Lordswood, Rated Driving instructors start with the basics, covering car controls and fundamental driving skills according to DVSA standards. We recommend getting a provisional driving licence before starting lessons. Our instructors focus on making you feel relaxed and comfortable, building your confidence from your very first lesson.
What is Rated Driving’s policy on changing instructors or requesting a refund for lessons in Lordswood?
Rated Driving aims to match you with a local instructor who is a good fit. If you feel there’s a material issue with your instructor, you can contact us, and we will try our best to connect you with a replacement. For refunds, Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” for the first hour of your initial lesson if you’re not satisfied, provided you contact us within 24 hours. Payments made within 30 days can be refunded based on agreed hours and value, but after 30 days, no refund is due.
Can I take intensive driving courses in Lordswood with Rated Driving, and how do they work?
Yes, Rated Driving offers intensive driving courses in Lordswood and the wider Medway area. These courses are designed to accelerate your learning, with some options allowing you to get test-ready in as little as 7 days. They are tailored to your local area, ensuring familiarity with potential test routes and local driving conditions.
Who provides the lessons?
Rated Driving acts as a booking agent. We arrange your driving lessons by matching you with a DVSA-registered, independent driving instructor. While we manage the booking and coordination, all driving lessons are delivered directly by the instructor, not by Rated Driving.
Can I use my own car for driving lessons?
No, all learners use their instructor's dual-controlled car for safety. To practice in your own car, you will need temporary learner driver insurance - we recommend [Link: GoShorty temporary learner insurance].
