Hampstead Driving School Ltd

Fantastic experience: Lum is the BEST! I would give him 100 stars if I could. I passed my UK driving test yesterday, and I honestly wouldn’t have done it without him. I’ve been driving in the US for over 20 years, so switching to UK driving was pretty nerve-wracking. Lum was super patient and understanding, and he really helped me build the confidence I needed. He always made time for me, even when I had a busy schedule, and gave me really useful tips that made a big difference. I really appreciated how he worked with me, especially when he let me drive my LHD car — not many instructors would do that, but he made sure I was comfortable and ready. And let me tell you, his punctuality is next level! He’s always on time, down to the second — I honestly don’t know how he does it! I need to learn his ways haha! On top of that, Lum’s been doing this for years and knows most of the examiners, so they trust that his students are well-prepared. His approach is calm, supportive, and tailored to you, and I always felt like I was in great hands. I’m so grateful for everything he did to help me pass, and I’d highly recommend him to anyone looking for a dedicated and thoughtful instructor.

Fantastic experience: I passed my test on the first try thanks to Lum and his preparation. I’m American and have been driving since I was 15 - but it’s different here and good to approach the process with humility. Lum is patient and prepares you in a way where you will pass. Also, the testers know him well - which tells the tester that you are prepared.

Negative experience: I usually hesitate to leave negative reviews for small businesses, but in this case I feel it’s important to share my experience. I had driving lessons with Lum a few years ago, and unfortunately, I found the experience quite upsetting. From the start, I felt uncomfortable — despite explaining that I was a bit anxious about driving, I was met with a dismissive and impatient attitude. He frequently tutted, made critical remarks, and showed very little understanding or encouragement. On one occasion, he even told a bizarre anecdote about how his nephew was so intelligent he passed his driving test the first time he got behind the wheel — which felt more like a way to undermine my own confidence. While I can’t say for certain what motivated his behaviour, I was left with the strong impression that he treated me differently (perhaps due to prejudice), and not in a way that felt fair or professional. I’ve seen other reviews that speak positively of him, so perhaps others have had a different experience (although Georgie B below also seems to be an ethnic minority with a similar experience) — but I think it’s important to acknowledge that not all students are treated equally. I wouldn’t recommend him, especially to anyone who might be feeling nervous or looking for a respectful, supportive instructor. I’m pleased to say that I later found a fantastic instructor and passed my test.

Fantastic experience: Lum is a fantastic driving instructor! I’ve gained a lot of confidence driving in the UK through our lessons and now feel much more comfortable on the roads. I passed my exam on the first try, zero faults! Thank you

Fantastic experience: Lum is the best driving instructor, nice person and totally reliable. He is always punctual and friendly. He explains everything clearly and shows very useful life hacks for manoeuvres. Although I am an experienced right-hand side driver it took be about 10 lessons to pass the UK exam on my first try.