route from N.Lincs to the M56

[raf_gti]

I'm travelling from n.Lincs next weekend over to Holyhead, obvious M-Way route is M180>>M62>>M6>>M56 which should take about 4 hours or so. Having a quick look at the map reveals the A628 and A635 from Barsnley to Stockport, I'm guessing it is a rather interesting road but would going that way be suicide bearing in mind I have a ferry to catch?

I'm also driving my Passat estate so taking full advantage of the road with dogs and luggage is out of the question!