Best Motorway Service Stations in the UK (2025)
Not all motorway services are created equal. While many are forgettable pit stops with overpriced sandwiches, some are genuinely worth stopping at. Here's our guide to the best service stations on UK motorways for 2025.
đ Our Top Pick: Tebay Services
Consistently voted the best motorway service station in the UK, Tebay on the M6 is a family-run haven featuring local produce, award-winning pies, and stunning Cumbrian views. It's worth planning your journey around.
Top UK Motorway Service Stations
Tebay Services
M6, Westmorland âĸ Westmorland Family
đĄ Tip: Try the famous Tebay pie and local cheeses. Worth a detour!
Gloucester Services
M5, Gloucestershire âĸ Westmorland Family
đĄ Tip: Sister to Tebay. Amazing farm shop with Cotswold produce.
Cobham Services
M25, Surrey âĸ Extra MSA
đĄ Tip: One of the newest on the M25. Clean and spacious.
South Mimms Services
M25/A1(M), Hertfordshire âĸ Welcome Break
đĄ Tip: Popular but can get very busy. Good variety of food.
Beaconsfield Services
M40, Buckinghamshire âĸ Extra MSA
đĄ Tip: Feels less chaotic than most. Good for a peaceful break.
Norton Canes Services
M6 Toll, Staffordshire âĸ RoadChef
đĄ Tip: M6 Toll users benefit from less crowded services.
Fleet Services
M3, Hampshire âĸ Welcome Break
đĄ Tip: One of few with a lake view. Great for stretching your legs.
Wetherby Services
A1(M), West Yorkshire âĸ Moto
đĄ Tip: Much improved after refurbishment. Good stop on the A1.
Service Stations to Avoid
While we won't name and shame, some common issues with poorer services include:
- Overcrowded facilities with long queues
- Limited food options beyond fast food
- Poorly maintained toilets
- Expensive parking (some charge after 2 hours)
- No outdoor seating or fresh air areas
Tips for Better Motorway Stops
Time Your Stops
Avoid stopping at peak times (8-10am, 12-2pm, 4-7pm) when services are most crowded.
Use Smaller Services
M6 Toll services and smaller stops are often quieter than major junctions.
Bring Snacks
Motorway food is expensive. Bring your own for savings and healthier options.
Fuel Wisely
Motorway fuel is 5-10p per litre more expensive. Fill up before joining if you can.
Dog Exercise Areas
Most services have dog walking areas. Look for signs, usually behind the main building.
Free Facilities
All UK motorway services must provide free toilets, drinking water, and baby changing.
What Do All Services Provide?
By law, all UK motorway service areas must provide these free facilities:
- Free toilets (clean and accessible)
- Free parking for at least 2 hours
- Free drinking water
- Baby changing facilities
- Telephone access
- Fuel (though prices vary)
â ī¸ Parking Time Limits
Most services allow free parking for 2 hours. After that, charges apply (typically ÂŖ15-ÂŖ35). If you're sleeping in your car, look for services without ANPR cameras or pay for overnight parking legally.
Electric Vehicle Charging
Most major service stations now have EV charging points. The best networks include:
- Gridserve Electric Highway: Major presence at Moto services
- Tesla Superchargers: Found at many locations (Tesla owners only)
- BP Pulse: Growing network with rapid chargers
- Ionity: Ultra-rapid charging at select locations
Read our detailed guide on EV charging on UK motorways.
Conclusion
If you're planning a long journey, it's worth researching which service stations are on your route. A stop at Tebay or Gloucester can transform a boring break into an enjoyable experience, while a poorly chosen stop can leave you frustrated.
Use our toll calculator to plan your route, then pick the best services along the way for a more pleasant journey.