This Sale route is the most expansive from the centre, covering 25.18 km with motorway driving on both the M60 and M56. Starting through Sale Moor and Old Hall Road, it joins the M60 south to Princess Parkway, then continues onto the M56 west to Hale Barns. The return winds through Grove Lane and Thorley Lane back via Stockport Road.

Watch Out For

Two separate motorway sections at 70 mph test your ability to merge, change lanes, and maintain speed. The transition from Princess Parkway onto the M56 requires careful lane selection. Hale Barns exit leads into narrow country lanes where speed drops dramatically. Two roundabouts near the M60 junction carry fast-moving traffic.

Route Features

Speed limits vary from 30 mph in suburban Norris Road to 70 mph on both motorways. Hale Road through Hale Barns has a semi-rural character with 40 mph limits. Grove Lane and Clay Lane are narrow country lanes with hedgerows. The total route time of 45.7 minutes means this could be close to the full test duration.

Test Manoeuvres

You will be asked to pull up on the left near Poplar Grove. Signal, check mirrors, and find a safe position by the kerb.

Key Tips

This route has everything: motorways, country lanes, and suburban streets. Practise each section independently before combining. On the M56, watch for variable speed limits. The 45-minute duration means stamina matters. Stay focused through the entire drive.