A 7.3-mile route taking about 25 minutes, heading east through Meols Cop and Blowick before looping south through rural lanes via Turning Lane, Heathey Lane, and Birkdale Cop, then returning through Kew and Duke Street. Speed limits range from 20 mph residential zones to a 60 mph national speed limit section on Southport Road, giving this short route a wide speed range. With 12 right turns and only 6 left turns, the route tests right-turn confidence at junctions.

Watch Out For

• Southport Road. A 60 mph national speed limit section. Reach the limit smoothly and read the road ahead for slower vehicles or turns.
• Turning Lane. Rural lane with limited visibility and rough surface. Slow down at bends and expect farm vehicles or horse riders.
• Birkdale Cop junction. Where the rural lane meets Jacksmere Lane. Sight lines are restricted by hedgerows, so creep forward carefully.
• Give way on Eastbourne Road. Near Kew, with traffic approaching from the right at speed. Wait for a clear gap.
• Pedestrian crossing near Part Street. Test centre area with busy foot traffic, particularly during commuter hours.

Route Features

• Wide speed range from 20 to 60 mph on a relatively short 7.3-mile route
• 12 right turns versus only 6 left turns, testing right-turn junction technique
• Rural lanes through Turning Lane and Birkdale Cop with 40-60 mph limits
• 4 school zones along the Meols Cop and Blowick residential sections

Test Manoeuvres

• Pull up on the left is tested on this route

Key Tips

• Right turns across oncoming traffic are a common fault area. Wait for a clear, safe gap every time
• The transition from 60 mph to 20 mph residential streets happens quickly. Begin braking early and downshift smoothly
• On Turning Lane and Birkdale Cop, rural driving skills matter. Use the road width to position for better visibility at bends