An 11.7-mile, 32-minute route that heads southeast from Chilwell through Beeston, Toton, and Long Eaton before reaching the rural villages of Breaston, Draycott, and Risley. Speed limits range from 30 to 60 mph with brief 70 mph dual carriageway sections. The longest route in this batch after Route 691, with 5 roundabouts and genuine country-road driving on Hopwell Road.

Watch Out For

• Hopwell Road, Draycott. Narrow, winding country road with blind bends and no pavements. Expect oncoming traffic, horse riders, and farm vehicles. Reduce speed and position left.
• Derby Road, Long Eaton. A busy high street with pedestrian crossings, buses pulling out, and parked delivery vehicles. Maintain 30 mph and scan constantly.
• Bostocks Lane, Sandiacre. Transition from 60 mph country road back to 30 mph. The speed limit drops quickly, so begin braking in good time.
• Bike lane on Nottingham Road near Toton. Cyclists may drift into your lane. Allow at least 1.5 metres clearance when overtaking.
• Toton Lane roundabout. Fast-moving traffic from the A52 direction. Time your entry carefully and give way to the right.

Route Features

• 5 roundabouts including Swiney Way and Sandiacre Interchange
• Mixed speed zones: 30, 40, 60, and 70 mph
• Rural section through Draycott and Risley with single-track roads
• 13 traffic signals, mostly concentrated in Long Eaton

Test Manoeuvres

• Pull up on the left near Eldon Road. Select a safe spot with good visibility. Use MSM routine and park close to the kerb.

Key Tips

• Hopwell Road is the standout challenge. Practise country-road driving: position, speed, and using passing places for oncoming vehicles.
• The 60/70 mph sections demand confident gear changes and smooth acceleration. Build speed progressively, do not hesitate.
• On returning via Brian Clough Way, watch for the speed camera and stay within the 40 mph limit.

Other Information