THE best motorway service stations for long winter trips have been revealed by a new customer survey.
The study also revealed which outlets have the worst reputations, with one seeing its approval rating drop below 35%.
Millions of Brits hit the roads during the festive period every year, with many visiting family and friends across the nation or just enjoying a winter break.
With a combination of the school holidays and Christmas celebrations, it’s one of the peak times of the year for road travel.
Often, though, this means lots of long, tedious drives over hundreds of miles of motorway.
For long-haul trips it’s essential to have an idea of the best places to stop for a break, as well as where to avoid.
Fortunately, each year consumer watchdog Which? surveys hundreds of motorists for their feedback on which service stations are driving oases and which need steering clear of.
The results of the 2024 poll have now been released – and the winner won’t be a surprise to seasoned road travellers.
Once again Gloucester Services has won the hearts and minds of its visitors with ease.
Often dubbed the UK’s poshest services, the picturesque site boasts its own farm shop, farm-to-table restaurant and nature gardens.
The outlet gained a whopping 86% rating from its customers in the Which? study.
It was closely followed by Tebay on the M6, a favourite of celebs like Frank Skinner and Clare Balding, with 83%.
Cairn Lodge on the A74 (M) closed out the top three with a 69% rating.
Interestingly, all of the table-topping trio are operated by the same brand – Westmorland.
At the other end of the scale, it was Bridgewater that found itself in the bottom slot, with a rating of just 32%.
This was joined by Gordano and Newport Pagnell in the bottom three on 40% and 41% respectively.
Which? researchers Guy Hobbs and Lauren Bell wrote: “No one visits a motorway service station for fun.
“But stop at the wrong one on your next road trip, and you might find dirty facilities and overpriced food.
“While the motorway you’re travelling on limits your options, our survey revealed that stopping a few junctions earlier or later could make all the difference to your overall experience.
“Unlike the dreary buildings you usually find on motorways, Gloucester Services has an architect-designed feel, with a roof carpeted in grass and floor-to-ceiling windows offering views over the little lake. It also has outdoor seating by the water.
“No wonder visitors called it an ‘essential part of a journey through Gloucestershire‘.”
