A 7.2-mile, 22-minute route through Beeston, Toton, Stapleford, Sandiacre, and Long Eaton. One of the quickest routes from Chilwell, covering five different speed zones: 20, 30, 40, 60, and 70 mph. With 4 roundabouts and only 11 traffic signals, this route favours roundabout skills and speed management over congested town-centre driving.

Watch Out For

• Briar Gate, Long Eaton. A residential road that connects to the 60 mph section. The transition is sudden, so watch for the speed limit signs and accelerate smoothly.
• Bostocks Lane, Sandiacre. Narrow road with a 60 mph national speed limit. Adjust your speed to the road conditions rather than the limit, especially on bends.
• Longmoor Road. Residential street with parked cars narrowing the road. Watch for children near the school and reduce speed accordingly.
• Brian Clough Way roundabout. Fast-moving traffic from the A52 dual carriageway. Approach cautiously, check right, and commit when a clear gap appears.
• Derby Road, Long Eaton. Busy high street with buses, pedestrians, and delivery vehicles. Keep to 30 mph and be prepared to stop at short notice.

Route Features

• 4 roundabouts including Swiney Way and Brian Clough Way
• 5 speed zones (20, 30, 40, 60, 70 mph) in just 7.2 miles
• 11 traffic signals, fewer than most Chilwell routes
• Mix of dual carriageway, town centre, and residential driving

Test Manoeuvres

• Pull up on the left near Eldon Road. Mirror-signal-manoeuvre, then park parallel and close to the kerb. Wait for instructions before pulling away.

Key Tips

• Five speed zones in 7 miles means constant attention to signage. Practise quick speed adjustments without over-braking.
• Bostocks Lane has a 60 mph limit but the road may not always feel safe at that speed. Read the road and adapt.
• Long Eaton town centre is the busiest section. Stay alert for pedestrians crossing between parked cars.