9 of the Best Service Stations in the UK: A Road Tripper’s Guide

When you’re on a long journey, finding a great service station can make all the difference to your road trip.

At PSD Vehicle Hire in St Helens, we want to ensure our customers have the best road trip experience possible.

That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the UK’s top 10 service stations –  keep reading to plan your next stops.

1. Gloucester Services, M5 Gloucestershire

Gloucester Services is one of the highest-rated and most aesthetically pleasing service stations in the UK.

Elevating the classic service station experience, Gloucester sits among rolling hills and green landscapes, boasting a children’s play area, a dining terrace, a calming pond, and dog-walking routes.

The interior is decked out with oak ceilings resting above a charming farm shop where you can purchase fresh flowers, organic vegetables, and artisan treats. There’s even a kitchen cafe with home-cooked meals and a gelato counter. What more do you need?

Amenities: Farm shop, kitchen, and an outdoor play area

EV Charging: Yes

Directions: Located between J11A and J12 on the M5

2. Tebay Services, M6 Cumbria

Perched in the heart of the Lake District, Tebay Services is a picturesque service station situated in farmland.

Similar to Gloucester, this rural service station features dog-walking areas, a duck pond, and a farm shop with deli, cheese, and butchery counters.

Tebay is a crowd favourite due to its relaxing atmosphere, unique amenities, and organic homemade products from local businesses.

Amenities: Farm shop, butchers, kitchen, and a lake view

EV Charging: Yes

Directions: Northbound between J38 and J39, Southbound between J39 and J38 on the M6

3. Stafford North, M6 Staffordshire

Boasting its very own lake walk and fountain features, the surprisingly scenic Stafford Northbound services is a well-loved stop for long-distance monthly car hires heading through the UK.

It’s the perfect service station for kids, featuring both an indoor and an outdoor play area for your little ones to let off some steam.

The food options here are endless. Alongside the usual culprits, there’s also Chozen Noodle bar, Pret a Manger, and West Cornwall Pasty Co.

Amenities: Two play areas, lakeside, and a dog-walking field

EV Charging: Yes

Directions: Located between J14 and J15 on the M6

4. Cornwall Services, A30 Cornwall

If you’re looking for a modern and fun-filled service station, Cornwall is the place to go!

Cornwall Services feels like you’re inside a vibrant shopping centre with its array of food and retail spots. Choose from Subway, Taco Bell, Rowe’s Cornish Bakers, Mcdonald’s, and more for your food fix.

Or, browse the shelves of Mountain Warehouse, Saltrock, and Mango Surf to prepare for your Cornish seaside adventure.

There’s even a barber shop hut if you need a quick shape-up before reaching your destination.

Amenities: Farm shop, food court, and a children’s play area

EV Charging: Yes

Directions: Located on the A30 near Roche, between Bodmin and Indian Queens

5. Welcome Break Sarn Park, M4 South Wales

If you’re looking for a reliable service station in Wales, Welcome Break Sarn Park is one of the highest-rated, with awards including the Best Rated Motorway Service Area in Wales and the Loo of the Year Award 2024.

Situated near the McArthur Glen Designer Outlet in Bridgend, Sarn Park has everything you need. From a range of food court options, a convenience store, and a Days Inn hotel, it’s the perfect place to rest on a long journey through South Wales.

Amenities: Food court, free shower facilities, and a Starbucks drive-thru

EV Charging: Yes (IONITY and Tesla Superchargers)

Directions: Located at J36 on the M4

6. Fleet Services, M3 Hampshire

Taking the crown as a high-end service station, Fleet Services is an ideal space to stop off on your journey towards LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, Chessington World of Adventures, and Heathrow Airport.

The highlight of Fleet is its dining options. Sit down for a restaurant experience at Pizza Express or browse options to go like The Good Breakfast, Chopstix, KFC, Starbucks, Burger King, and Pret a Manger, to name a few.

The hypnotic water feature is a lovely way to calm your mind and break up your focus during your long drive, helping your eyes rest after all their concentration.

Amenities: Dog-friendly, free shower facilities, Pizza Express, and Waitrose

EV Charging: Yes

Directions: Located between J4A and J5 on the M3

7. Baldock Services, A1 Hertfordshire

Baldock Services has everything you need to break up your long-distance journey in your comfortable car hire.

Foodies will love the dine-in choices here, from Pizza Express and Chopstix to El Mexicana, German Doner Kebab, and Deep Blue Fish & Chips, as well as the usual fast food options.

Other features include both an indoor and outdoor play area for the kids, shower facilities, free-to-use showers in their stylish bathroom areas, and even a multi-faith prayer room for those who need it.

Amenities: Dine-in restaurants, multi-faith prayer room, and indoor & outdoor play areas

EV Charging: Yes

Directions: Located on the A1(M) at J10

8. Roadchef Annandale Water, A74(M) Scotland

Next on our guide to the top service stations in the UK is this scenic stop in Scotland.

Located off the A74(M) and nestled beside the River Annan, Annandale Water Services offers a prime spot with stunning views over the water. This dog-friendly station is an ideal stop for travellers with pets.

Enjoy a break at popular retailers like Costa, Chozen Noodle, McDonald’s, and The Cornish Bakery, then relax outdoors to take in the beautiful surroundings.

Amenities: Picnic area, lakeside terrace, and on-site swans you can sit and watch

EV Charging: Yes

Directions: Located between J16 and J17 on the A74(M)

9. Cobham Services, M25 Surrey

Stretch your legs at Cobham Services on your journey to Heathrow or Gatwick airports.

Now, if you thought the previous service stations had great food, you’re in for a treat. The food on offer at Cobham Services includes Nando’s, Pizza Express, LEON, Tapori Indian Street Food, El Mexicana, Don Churro, Chopstix, and Greggs!

Once you’ve filled up on food, take a walk around the scenic lakeside, or soak up some Vitamin D in the picnic area whilst your little ones run free in the outdoor playground.

Amenities: Nando’s, laundry room, and a lakeside walk

EV Charging: Yes (IONITY and Tesla Superchargers)

Directions: Located between J9 and J10 on the M25

Hire a vehicle from PSD Vehicle Rental today

Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure in a vehicle from PSD Vehicle Hire, these top-rated service stations offer comfortable rest stops, delicious food options, and convenient EV charging facilities – perfect for our electric van hire options.

Remember, when choosing monthly car rental from PSD Vehicle Hire in St Helens, you’re not just getting a vehicle – you’re getting the key to exploring the best of Britain’s roads and service stations. Book your next hire car with us and experience the difference!

Start your journey today and contact us on the phone by calling 0345 222 1022 or sending an email to info@psdvehiclerental.co.uk.