The M25 has been named the UK's most hated motorway by a hefty margin, according to a poll of motorists. The ranking, based on an AA survey of 13,775 responses, highlights widespread frustration with the orbital road around London.
Motorways make up about 2% of the road network, but handle around 20% of all road traffic, meaning their condition and reliability have an outsized impact on daily journeys. The list, compiled from the AA data, ranks the top 10 worst routes as voted by drivers.
From M27 to M42: the roads drivers despise
In 10th place is Hampshire's M27, a 28-mile route plagued by long-running roadworks and surface and junction updates. Only 1% of AA respondents selected it as the worst, but a Transport Focus poll found just 56% of drivers were satisfied with their journey.
The M8, a 60-mile route across Scotland's central belt from Edinburgh past Glasgow into Renfrewshire, ranks 9th. The road varies from five lanes to two in busy stretches and features unusual slip roads that force drivers to exit to the right. It was chosen by 1% of AA pollsters.
The M60, a 36-mile ring road around Manchester, takes 8th place. It was selected by 139 (1%) respondents as the worst motorway, and a Transport Focus poll placed it third worst overall, with journey times a major frustration.
M42 and the top spot
The M42, ranked 7th, was previously found to be the worst motorway in the UK by a Transport Focus poll, receiving only a 56% satisfaction score. Drivers have criticised it for delays, roadworks and potholes, with 2% of AA respondents naming it their worst pick.
The full list of the top 10 worst motorways continues with the M5 and others, but the M25 took the top spot by a significant margin, reflecting the fury of UK motorists with the route.
