Taking regular stops en route to your touring destination is all part of a long caravan trip and we all have our favourites.
Now, Instarmac, with the help of TripAdvisor, has put together a definitive list of the best motorway services across Britain.
This should help you to plan your next journey to ensure you arrive at your campsite feeling rested and most importantly, get there safely.
Gloucester Services
Consistently appearing in the top-ranked service stations in the UK, Gloucester Services is Britain’s favourite according to TripAdvisor.
Its mantra of “bringing you proper food on the motorway” is reflected in home-cooked dishes, which are enough to tempt weary caravanners to take a break.
Add to this its authentic artisan feel and leafy green surroundings, Gloucester Services has become a firm favourite with travelling Brits.
One TripAdvisor reviewer said: “If only every motorway services was like this one!” High praise indeed.
Moto Hospitality Rugby
New to the services scene is Moto Hospitality Rugby, which opened to the public in 2021, so has relatively fewer reviews than others.
It was, however, named the best in the UK in Transport Focus’ 2022 customer survey, so we’re expecting it to keep up the quality as it becomes well known.
Among the reviews Moto Hospitality Rugby has attracted is a nod to how pet-friendly the new facilities are, making it a good stop-off point if you’re travelling with your dog.
Tebay Services
Located on the M6 near Penrith in Cumbria, Tebay Services is run by the same company as Gloucester Services and has an equally winning formula.
It stands out from other services for its commitment to working with local producers within a 30-mile radius.
These 70-plus suppliers stock its farm shop and restaurant, where children can enjoy a hot meal for £1 when purchased with an adult-sized dish.
Extra MSA Cobham
Cobham Services, which can be found between junctions nine and ten of the M25 in Surrey, is famous for being the first motorway services to ever hold a wedding.
The bride and groom were enticed by the food options on offer, including Greggs, Pizza Express and Leon, which are also great opportunities to refuel on the way to your caravan destination.
Cairn Lodge Services
Scotland’s Cairn Lodge Services on the A74, just over half an hour south of Glasgow is said to offer a similar vibe to the Gloucester and Tebay services.
Its name comes from the nearby historic 18th century gatehouse of the derelict Douglas Castle and continues to offer hospitality for travellers looking to break up their journey.
Roadchef Annandale McDonalds
This McDonalds north of the border has much to recommend it alongside just a Big Mac and fries, as it boasts a picturesque lakeside location.
As well as the panoramic views, users of TipAdvisor have commented on the excellent customer service, which elevates a typical fast food experience into something more memorable.
If you’re driving past Annandale near Lockerbie on your way to the Highlands or islands, perhaps, then tap into this little-known gem.
Photo credit: Unsplash/Joseph Pearson