Hello Rob,
I must know you by sight at least. I have been doing quite a bit of your route for the last 3 years.

Some suggestions :
When you get to Dover lock try going towards Leigh and getting off at Pennington Flash.

Better still if you drive put the bike in the back and drive to Gathurst or Appley Bridge and cycle towards Burscough.

Go past Hawkley to Wigan and take the route up to the Top Lock.
Once you get to the top it takes you through Haigh Hall and onwards for a really pleaseant ride.

Hope this helps you find somewhere new.

Ian.

Town: Stubshaw Cross