This 18.7 km Widnes route heads north from the centre through Ditton on Liverpool Road, then east into Kingsway Estate and Appleton via Highfield Road. The route continues northeast through Farnworth on Pit Lane and Glebe Lane, then follows Lunts Heath Road and Wilmere Lane toward the Rainhill Stoops Interchange. It returns via the fast Watkinson Way dual carriageway before looping through Ashley Way back to the centre.

Watch Out For

Twenty-two traffic lights make this the most signal-heavy Widnes route. Seven right turns require consistent junction discipline. The Rainhill Stoops Interchange has a 70 mph section with complex lane markings. Watkinson Way transitions from 70 mph to 30 mph as you approach Lugsdale, so watch for the speed reduction signs.

Route Features

Mainly 30 mph residential driving through six distinct suburbs. Farnworth has quiet tree-lined roads like Pit Lane and Glebe Lane. The Rainhill Stoops section offers a brief dual carriageway experience. Ashley Way provides a contrasting wide urban road back through the town centre area. Total route time is approximately 30 minutes.

Key Tips

With 22 traffic lights, practise smooth stops and progressive starts to avoid stalling. On Lunts Heath Road, the speed changes from 30 to 40 mph. At the Rainhill Stoops Interchange, follow the lane markings carefully and signal well before your exit. Through Farnworth, Pit Lane has a concealed junction with Glebe Lane where you need to stop and check both ways.