One of the few joys of a long motorway drive is stopping off at a service station. Whether off to Wales, London or Cornwall, a toilet break, a refuel on fast food and high street coffee, and some good ol’ people-watching is always on the schedule. But they’re rarely the destination. That is unless it’s the family-owned Gloucester Service Station.
My parents are often found driving up the M5 to what’s universally agreed to be the UK’s greatest service station. But if you won’t take our word for it, Which? named Gloucester Service Station the best motorway service in the UK back in April in a survey rated by thousands of visitors. It’s so good, there’s even a TV show about it (Channel 4’s A Cotswold Farmshop).
Why does everyone love Gloucester Service Station?
First of all, it doesn’t look like any service station I’ve been to. Opened in 2014, it sits almost naturally into the surrounding Cotswolds landscape thanks to a state-of-the-art grassy roof – designed to attract bees and butterflies – and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the lake.
But it’s the farm shop that has given it cult-like status in the South West. Working with more than 130 producers in only a 30-mile radius, you’ll find everything from a butcher selling native-breed meats to Italian-style gelato. Plus, Gloucester Services sells the best of the day’s catch seafood; a deli for pies, pastries and picnics; and speciality cheeses from across Europe.
This doesn’t even begin to cover everything you’ll find here – from cakes to clothing. But one thing you won’t find is spots like KFC, Subway or McDonalds. If you want hot food, the kitchen is where you’ll find it made “from scratch as you would make it at home.” While, unlike the sad sights of other service stations, nearly every seat is a window seat – staring out at the duck pond and surrounding hills.
Meals range from full English breakfasts and hot porridge to lasagne, fish ‘n’ chips and pies. Children’s portions of hot dishes cost just £1 when bought with an adult meal too. And if you’re in a hurry, you’ll find it well-stocked with pre-made sandwiches, salads, soups and hot pies – don’t overlook the “famous sausage rolls”.
You probably understand now why Which? calls Gloucester Service Station: “The gold standard of service stations.” If you want a look at one of the worst, however, look no further than Gordano Services – the second-worst service station in the UK – which is halfway between Portishead and Clevedon. Would you agree?