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The claim that participation in lifelong learning can augment participants' quality of life and economic and social status, as well as national prosperity, seems irrefutable. Nevertheless, in the UK, surveys consistently indicate that, overall, the participation of adults (16+) has not been increasing over the last decade. While there are some national statistics on participation/non-participation in lifelong learning, information on the learning divide - the level and the nature of adult participation/non-participation in lifelong learning in local contexts - is limited. This study analyses factors influencing participation in adult education both favourably and unfavourably. The study is based on individual and focus-group interviews and on a questionnaire survey. Recommendations for change that might tackle barriers and promote drivers to boost participation in adult education are proposed.