There are thousands of service stations, layby caterers, diners and truck stop’s all over the UK ready to welcome the weary traveller. Whether it be a hot meal, a well-earned rest or just a quick comfort break they all have something to offer.
Have you ever asked yourself, ‘I’m sure I have been to this services before?’ I know I have. That’s because there are many that are simply carbon copies of the one 50 miles down the road that are part of the same chain, with the same shops and the same layout. Of course, the majority of the time people are making a b-line for the toilets which is all well and good but once that ‘panic’ is out of the way, who’s to say you shouldn’t enjoy a service station or stop off point?
That’s why we asked the hard-working men and women who drive the Culina Group fleet, where they thought the best places were in the UK to stop off? Using that information we have compiled a Top 10 list of the best places to pull over to rest, re-charge and refuel in the UK.
1. Newcott Fish and Chips
Testimonial:
“I’m an HGV driver and I use the A41 all the time between Liverpool and the Midlands and the South. I’ve been going to this particular chippy for quite some time and I have to say it’s excellent. They have just put in a Shower for drivers. There’s overnight parking available and they’ve expanded the restaurant. The food is first class and the staff are so easy to get on with. Great food great service and all with a smile would highly recommend it.”
2.Lockerbie
Testimonial:
“I stay here in my truck regularly. The food, the staff, the showers are all top notch and I would certainly recommend the place to fellow truck drivers and the general public passing. Keep up the good work!”
3. Truckers Rest
Testimonial:
“Restarting my driving career after a few years it’s so good to find a great value and friendly stop. Far away from the over-priced motorway services, Truckers Rest is an honest to goodness no-nonsense truck stop.”
4. “Route 74” – Lesmahagow
Testimonial:
“Called in both, northbound on a Sunday (great carvery on the go) and also on my southbound trip for just a mug of tea. Staff are friendly and comfortable surroundings. Toilets are very clean. Just off the M74 so easily accessible without paying motorway service prices.”
5. AWJ Truck Stop, Penrith
Testimonial:
“This is a good truck stop, good food at good prices, a nice clean place to stay and eat. What more do you need?”
Testimonial:
“This is my favourite service station’ It’s in a gorgeous location, and every time I drive up through Cumbria, I look forward to a brew and a bite to eat here, gazing out over the beautiful countryside.”
7. Rugby Truck Stop
Testimonial:
“This was a well-earned food stop and there was no disappointment here. Everywhere accessible to the disabled, refillable teas and coffees, make up your own breakfast, all fresh and piping hot. They were absolutely brilliant, everywhere clean, staff very helpful. Continental breakfast available also takeouts of sandwiches, rolls etc.”
8. Skem Truck Stop
Testimonial:
“Nice clean showers and toilet area. Great food, TV area and free WiFi very secure parking overnight gates closed at 22:00 so very quiet.”
9. Watford Gap Services
Testimonial:
“Stopped on my way back from Manchester, had a nice meal, friendly service and quick too, nothing flashy but kept me awake and going till I got home.”
10. Bury St Edmunds Lorry Park
Testimonial:
“It is well signposted to get to, I arrived 6:00 pm, it was getting full, FREE parking overnight, there are toilets and wash facilities. There is also a very good, and reasonably priced cafe on the lorry park open from 7 am till 7 pm i.e. steak, chips, mushrooms, beans 2 bread & butter mug of tea £4.75 a good meal it was too. It is well lit all night so security is thought about. When I am passing again I will use it overnight.”
So, there you have it, the Top 10 places to stop in the UK as chosen by our drivers. Who would have thought an overnight stop with a fish and chip shop would make it to number one? But the numbers don’t lie! We’ll definitely be swinging by to sample what they have to offer.
If your favourite didn’t make the list and you think it should have, why not Tweet us @Culina_Group and tell us what makes your stop spot ‘list worthy’.
Leave A Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.