Exploring the UK’s Best Motorway Service Stations: 2025/26

The UK’s service stations play a vital role in keeping drivers safe and comfortable on the road. Whatever the reason for your journey, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents recommends taking a 15-minute break for every two hours of driving. Whether it’s a quick tea stop, a refuel, or a recharge, service stations give us the space to rest, reset, and continue our journeys safely.

However, as our previous research has shown, some service stations are more highly thought of than others. From the number of parking spaces to rapid EV charging points, we’ve crunched the numbers and ranked the UK’s best motorway service stations for 2025/26. Has your favourite made the list?

#1 Exeter

With 36 electric vehicle charging stations, 13 options for food and drink, and a green space on hand to break up the tarmac monotony, Exeter service station located on the M5 tops the list. It’s designed to cater to every type of traveller, from long-haul drivers to families on day trips. The first two hours of parking are free, making it perfect for a leisurely picnic on the grass bank or a quick stretch before hitting the road again.

#2: Newport Pagnell Southbound

Located on the M1 between Junctions 14 and 15, Newport Pagnell Southbound Services offers 13 food and drink outlets, including a Waitrose. With plenty of space to stretch your legs and a variety of dining options, it provides a comfortable and convenient stop for drivers.

Bolton, a town in Greater Manchester, has the highest proportion of people suffering from back pain in the UK. The prescription data shows that an average of 122.1 prescriptions are prescribed each year per 1,000 people. This is a staggering 177% higher than the UK average of 44 annual prescriptions per 1,000 people. Bolton has also seen the ninth largest year-on-year increase in relevant medication, with an average 243% increase each year since 2017. 

#3 Fleet

This dual service station on the M3 is a convenient stop for anyone heading to LEGOLAND Windsor. It has 16 food and drink outlets as well as 26 rapid EV charging points, providing plenty of options for EV and non-EV drivers needing a rest and recharge. In a unique touch, Fleet Services has partnered with the charity Electric Umbrella to include a bright yellow piano, giving visitors the chance to play and pause for a moment during their journey.

#4 Wetherby

Wetherby Service Station on the A1 provides 13 catering options, a Days Inn hotel with good reviews, and a phone service store for anyone in a technological pinch. Its unusual semi-industrial silo design gives the station a distinctive character, with open, airy spaces that make it easy to navigate and relax. The layout also allows drivers to access facilities quickly and safely.

#5 Cambridge

Cambridge Services, which ranked fourth in our 2019 research, has now dropped to number five, potentially reflecting shifts in driver priorities over the past five years, including greater emphasis on green space and rapid EV charging.

Situated on the A14 at the northern end of the M11, Cambridge Services is a great pit stop. In addition to a range of food options, this service station has a dedicated children's play area, a full-fledged arcade, and a multi-faith prayer room. Cambridge Services also offers some of the more affordable parking, at £10 per hour after the two hours of free parking has expired.

#6 Cobham

Cobham Services, the UK’s top-ranked service station in our 2019 research, could still be the most picturesque stop on the list with its lakeside terrace. As the country’s largest and busiest station, it provides plenty of space for a pause, including three hours of free parking. With 16 food and drink outlets, the variety caters to all tastes, while the open layout and waterside views make it a welcoming place to take a genuine break from the road.

#7 South Mimms

South Mimms service station, which was ranked ninth in our 2019 research, has climbed to number seven in 2025/26. The sprawling site offers separate parking areas for cars, HGVs, coaches, and caravans, making it easy for all types of travellers to find space. Facilities include 13 food and drink outlets and more than 20 electric charging stations, supporting both quick stops and longer breaks. Adding a creative touch, there’s also a piano on site, giving visitors the chance to pause and enjoy a brief moment of music during their journey.

#8 Ferrybridge

The final services on the M62, Ferrybridge, features a well-rated Travelodge, a dedicated dog-walking area, and 24 electric vehicle charging stations. The modern facilities and spacious layout make it easy to navigate, and the range of amenities caters to a variety of travellers, from families to long-distance drivers. The updated design and thoughtful features create a stop that’s both functional and welcoming.

#9 Reading Westbound

Situated on the M4, Reading Westbound Services offers 15 food and drink outlets, including two doughnut shops. The station also features a large green space and a dedicated children’s play area, providing room to stretch and unwind. Its layout and variety of facilities make it a practical stop for families and travellers looking for a mix of refreshment and relaxation during their journey.

#10: Scotch Corner

Located at the junction of the A1(M) and A66 in North Yorkshire, Scotch Corner offers 24 rapid EV charging points, a well-reviewed Travel Lodge, and a range of food and drink outlets, including Costa Coffee, Burger King, and M&S Food. A free cash machine is also available on-site, adding to the convenience for travellers.

Our Sales and Marketing Director, Spencer Davi has the following to say on the research:

“When you drive for a job, a pleasant service station to stop at can make a real difference. Our customers spend a lot of time on the road, so we understand the value of stopping somewhere clean, comfortable and well-equipped to take a proper break. The stations topping our list really do stand out for making life easier for people who drive for a living."

Methodology Data on Motorway Services Online (MSO) ratings, the number of food and drink outlets, and parking costs were drawn from Motorway Services Online. Information on green spaces came from either MSO or the service station's own website. Hotel ratings were collated via Google Maps, and data on electric vehicle charging came from Zapmap. Dual service stations were ranked together where their collective scores were the same and they shared the same hotel. See the full ranking below.