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Driving Lessons in Locksbottom
⚡️ Instantly matched with a local Locksbottom instructor.
🎓 Trusted by 20k+ learners nationwide.
🤝 Love your first driving lesson or your money back. (T&C's apply)
Learn to drive confidently in Locksbottom 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 Locksbottom 🙏
See why our learners in Locksbottom love Rated Driving ♥️
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My Experience Learning to Drive in Locksbottom
I took my driving lessons with Rated Driving in Locksbottom. The instructor was brilliant – calm, clear, and super supportive. I felt completely ready by the time my test came around and passed with just 1 minor!
Leo Y
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Top-Notch Driving Lessons in Locksbottom
Rated Driving in Locksbottom made learning to drive a breeze. The instructor helped me stay calm and focused, and I passed first time. Great service!
Jake K
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Unforgettable Driving Journey in Locksbottom
My experience with Rated Driving in Locksbottom was incredible. The lessons were structured, and my instructor made learning fun. I passed on my first try!
Liam K
Learning to drive in Locksbottom
Locksbottom 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 Locksbottom, 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 Southeast London, Locksbottom offers an ideal environment to master your driving skills. With its blend of residential streets and access to busier roads, Locksbottom provides a comprehensive learning experience, and Rated Driving is here to guide you every step of the way.
Taking driving lessons in Locksbottom comes with numerous advantages. The area boasts a variety of road types, allowing learners to gradually build confidence. You can start on the quieter residential streets around Locksbottom, such as those near Tugmutton Common, to get comfortable with basic car control and manoeuvres. As your skills develop, your Rated Driving instructor will introduce you to more challenging routes. For instance, navigating the main thoroughfares like the A21, which runs through Locksbottom, will prepare you for higher speeds and more complex traffic situations. Practicing on roads leading to and from the Princess Royal University Hospital will also expose you to varying traffic flows and pedestrian crossings, crucial for developing strong observational skills.
Beyond the practicalities of learning, Locksbottom offers a charming backdrop for your driving journey. After a focused lesson, you could take a moment to appreciate the local amenities. Perhaps you’d enjoy a relaxing break at one of the local pubs like the Black Horse, the British Queen, or Ye Olde Whyte Lion. Locksbottom is also home to the acclaimed Chapter One Restaurant, perfect for a celebratory meal once you’ve passed your test. While Locksbottom itself is a suburb of Orpington, it offers easy access to other attractions. For a bit of local history, you might explore the area around the former Goddendene, a historic mansion that once stood near the current Sainsbury’s supermarket. You can learn more about the history of Locksbottom by visiting its Wikipedia page.
When it comes to the practical driving test, the nearest centre to Locksbottom is the Bromley Court Driving Test Centre. Located at Club Langley, 2 Hawksbrook Lane, Bromley, BR1 4JD, this centre provides a varied testing environment, incorporating both residential and main roads. Your Rated Driving instructor will ensure you are thoroughly familiar with the typical test routes and potential challenges in and around the Bromley Court area. For your theory test, the nearest centre is likely to be in Tunbridge Wells or Sidcup. You can find more information and locate your nearest theory test centre on the official GOV.UK website: Find a theory test centre. Similarly, for practical test centre details, visit Find a driving test centre.
Learning to drive in Locksbottom with Rated Driving means you’ll receive personalised, high-quality instruction tailored to your needs. Our instructors are experts in the local area, providing you with the confidence and skills to navigate Locksbottom’s roads and beyond. Don’t delay your journey to independence. Take the first step towards gaining your driving licence by booking your driving lessons in Locksbottom with Rated Driving today.
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Locksbottom
Bromley (London) Driving Test Centre
121 Burnt Ash Lane, Bromley, Greater London, BR1 5AB
Sidcup (London) Driving Test Centre
2 Crayside, Five Arches Business Estate, Maidstone Road, Bexley, Sidcup, Greater London, DA14 5AG
Hither Green (London) Driving Test Centre
42-44 Ennersdale Road, Lewisham, Hither Green, Greater London, SE13 6JD
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 Locksbottom for your driving lessons.
Travelling by Train
For learner drivers heading to Locksbottom, public transport is straightforward. If you’re coming from areas served by Southeastern trains, your primary destination is Orpington Station. Southeastern services frequently run to Orpington, which is a key hub for reaching Locksbottom. From Orpington Station, numerous bus routes serve Locksbottom directly, including the 61, 353, R2, R3, and R4. The bus journey from Orpington to Locksbottom is typically short, around 6-8 minutes.
From Bromley South, direct bus services like the 261, 336, and 358 will get you to Locksbottom in about 15 minutes. If you’re travelling from Beckenham, you can take a train to Orpington and then a bus to Locksbottom, or a direct bus from Bromley South. For those coming from East Croydon, take the 466 bus to Addington Village Interchange, then connect to the 353 bus to reach Locksbottom.
For the best travel experience to Locksbottom, aim for off-peak hours. Peak times for trains and buses are generally Monday to Friday, 06:30 to 09:30 and 16:00 to 19:00. Travelling outside these times, especially during weekends, will mean fewer crowds and potentially cheaper fares. You can book train tickets via Trainline or MyTrainTicket.
Travelling by Bus
To reach Locksbottom for your driving lessons, several bus routes connect from nearby towns and villages. From Orpington, the 61 bus offers a direct service from Tubbenden Lane to Glyndebourne Park in Locksbottom, taking approximately 6-8 minutes. The R2 also connects Orpington Walnuts Centre to Locksbottom, Keston, and Biggin Hill.
If you’re travelling from Green Street Green, the 3 bus service runs to Locksbottom via Sevenoaks Road. From Farnborough, the 358, 654, and 684 bus routes serve Locksbottom. The 358 connects Crystal Palace, Bromley, and Orpington to Locksbottom, while the 684 runs from Orpington Station through Green Street Green and Farnborough to Locksbottom. Keston is served by the R2 and 684, both reaching Locksbottom. The 353 bus provides a direct link from Hayes (Kent) to Locksbottom / Farnborough Common in about 10 minutes.
For those coming from Bromley South, the 261 bus offers a direct route to Princess Royal University Hospital, which is very close to Locksbottom, with a journey time of around 15 minutes.
It’s generally best to travel outside of peak hours (7 AM – 10 AM and 4 PM – 7 PM on weekdays) to avoid traffic congestion around Locksbottom. You can book bus tickets through operators like Arriva UK Bus or via platforms like Trainline and FlixBus.
Fun Fact About Locksbottom
Locksbottom, a suburb of Orpington in Greater London, was historically part of Kent until 1965. Its name likely derives from the Lock family, who owned land there in the 1700s. A fun fact: Ye Olde Whyte Lion, a coaching inn, has been serving patrons since at least the 17th century! Learn more about Locksbottom.
Rated Discounts
Find Your Deal
Take advantage of our amazing offers when you book your driving lessons in Locksbottom. 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 Locksbottom driving instructors
We work with a trusted network of local DVSA-registered instructors - across Locksbottom 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 Locksbottom’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 Locksbottom?
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 Locksbottom’s roads inside out - so you can learn faster and pass with confidence.
- Local Experts, Ready to Go:
Over 341 DVSA-registered driving instructors across London including Locksbottom, Plaistow, North Finchley & New Barnet.
- 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 Locksbottom? 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
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1600+ DVSA-Registered Driving Instructors
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WHAT CAN I GET
Locksbottom 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.
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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 Locksbottom
Prefer a female driving instructor? Just let us know. Rated Driving will connect you with a trusted female instructor in Locksbottom who fits your schedule and preferences.
Automatic driving lessons in Locksbottom
Struggling with gears or just want a simpler start? Let us match you with an automatic instructor in Locksbottom who’ll help you build confidence and get test-ready without stalling.
Book Automatic Lessons
Intensive driving course Locksbottom
Want to pass fast? Our intensive driving courses are designed to help you progress quickly. We'll match you with a local instructor in Locksbottom ready to help you reach the finish line.
Learn to drive Locksbottom.
Download our app and start your driving journey in Locksbottom today - the fastest way to get matched and on the road.
Learner guide
Areas We Cover Near Locksbottom, London
Are you looking for the top driving lessons in nearby locations? Rated Driving also offers driving lessons in nearby areas, including:
Driving lessons in Locksbottom FAQs
What are the typical driving conditions like in Locksbottom?
Locksbottom, located in the London Borough of Bromley, offers a varied environment for driving lessons. You’ll experience navigating the main A21 road, which connects London to Hastings, as well as quieter residential streets. Expect a mix of suburban traffic and areas with a more village-like feel, providing a comprehensive learning experience.
Which driving test centres are most convenient for learners in Locksbottom?
For learners in Locksbottom, several driving test centres are within a reasonable distance. Popular options include Bromley Test Centre, located near King’s Meadow Playing Fields, and West Wickham Test Centre on Glebe Way. Your Rated Driving instructor will help you become familiar with the routes and conditions around these centres.
How do I book driving lessons in Locksbottom with Rated Driving?
Booking driving lessons with Rated Driving in Locksbottom is straightforward. Simply visit the Rated Driving website, enter your postcode on the homepage to get prices, and then select your desired package. You can pay securely online, with no deposit or upfront cost required for standard lessons, and even save up to £110 by purchasing lessons in bulk.
What advice do you have for beginner drivers in Locksbottom?
For beginners in Locksbottom, it’s recommended to start in quieter residential areas to build confidence before progressing to busier roads like the A21. Your Rated Driving instructor will tailor lessons to your needs, covering essential skills like vehicle control, manoeuvres, and navigating junctions. Consistent practice and early engagement with theory test preparation are key to success.
What is Rated Driving’s refund policy for lessons in Locksbottom?
Rated Driving offers a “100% Money Back Guarantee” for the first hour of your initial driving lesson if you’re not satisfied; simply contact them within 24 hours for a full refund and the option to be rebooked with a new instructor. For subsequent lessons, refunds for pre-paid packages are generally available for funds remaining in your account, provided they are requested within 30 days of payment and lessons haven’t been taken within 60 days of purchase.
Can I change my driving instructor with Rated Driving in Locksbottom if needed?
Yes, Rated Driving understands that sometimes a change of instructor is necessary. While it’s not possible to change instructors once allocated unless there’s a material issue, Rated Driving will endeavour to rebook you with a replacement instructor if a material issue is determined. You can request a different instructor through the learner support in the app.
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].
