[Lifted from the Other Place, where I made this post last year in preparation for driving the route…]

Various bypasses n’ such mean its path has changed over time: SABRE have the “original” route as of 1923 but no directional navigation.

I had some time this weekend, so I’ve done the legwork, as far as it’s possible to match the original route thanks to pedestrianised zones and one-ways. In three parts:

Manchester to Loughborough (Google doesn’t want to route you down the A5004 to Buxton, so turn right instead of left at Whaley Bridge)

Loughborough to Bedford

Bedford to the end of the A6, Chipping Barnet

I’d say “enjoy”, but it’s like a 7-hour drive apparently. I’ll find out just how long it takes next week.

I did end up driving this whole route, stopping for lunch in Leicester and supping at the KFC in South Mimms. Got lost trying to find a way down the A5004, not realising it had been washed away, and had to backtrack onto the current route of the A6.

Most boring section? Bedford to Luton, of course. More or less a straight line with no distinguishing features.

If any of you feel like trying it, budget for 9 hours. It was fun, but it was much quicker coming back up the motorways.