Magic Roundabout in Swindon named UK Roundabout of the Year

Despite striking fear into the hearts of motorists for more than 50 years, Swindon's Magic Roundabout has become a well-known tourist destination that has put the town on the map.

First opening back in 1972, the the roundabout is made up of five mini clockwise roundabouts which all circle a larger anti-clockwise roundabout.

It was voted the country's fourth scariest junction in 2009 and now even has its own merchandise line with mugs, coasters, calendars and even jigsaws.

In celebration of its 52nd year, Swindon's Magic Roundabout has now been named UK Roundabout of the Year.

A spokesperson for the UK Roundabout Appreciation Society, which presented the award, said: "Congratulations must go to the town of Swindon for receiving a top roundabout accolade.

Swindon's Magic Roundabout draws in visitors from around the world (Image: Newsquest) "We have always recognised and embraced this terrific traffic-island system over the years. 

"It has attracted global media attention, with TV shows and celebrities taking an interest."

Councillor Chris Watts, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment and Transport, is thrilled at the win.

He said: “For more than 50 years, the Magic Roundabout has put visitors to Swindon in a spin, but those who live here know it is a much-loved, iconic landmark which has put our town on the map across the globe.

“I’m extremely proud it has been given the coveted ‘Roundabout of the Year’ award because Swindon wouldn’t be Swindon without its roundabouts.

"I’d like to thank Kevin and the UK Roundabout Appreciation Society for finally awarding the roundabout its top accolade as they have confirmed what we have known all along – the Magic Roundabout is number one.”

The Magic Roundabout can take some getting used to (Image: Newsquest) The story of the Magic Roundabout first began in 1810 when Fairholm house was built for the canal manager of the Wilts & Berks Canal.

The house made way for a simple roundabout called 'County Island' in the 1930s which joined Drove, County and Shrivenham roads.

It was traffic engineer Frank Blackmore who redesigned it as the roundabout we know today and reopened it in 1972. 

It was officially renamed the 'Magic Roundabout' in the 1980s.

Rally car driver Mike Whiddett who, sponsored by Red Bull, drifted over the landmark in 2016, even described it as: "One of the craziest roundabouts I’ve ever discovered."

The roundabout also helped Swindon become twinned with Walt Disney World in 2009 because of its similarity to the iconic teacup ride.