I work in the booking office at Cheddleton station on running weekends and I can tell you that the line is around 5.5 miles long from Froghall to Leekbrook.
The Cream teas start at Froghall and last around 1 hour, but you are able to get on at Cheddleton and go to Froghall on the train. You will need to pre-book for the cream tea by calling Froghall on 01538750755.
In Leek there is a new Premier Inn and that is by car about 10 minutes from Cheddleton.