Motorway services can be miserable and crowded places, with a reputation for over-priced fuel and dull surroundings, serving food that is both expensive and of questionable quality.
Whatever you think of them, a new survey of England’s best and worst service stations might fuel your opinions.
Transport Focus has asked customers for their views.
The top of the list is Norton Canes on the M6 toll road, with a 100% satisfaction rating. The bottom is Thurrock on the M25, with just 68% satisfaction.
Highest ranked:
Lowest ranked:
*services known to be undergoing refurbishment at the time of the survey.
Overall, it appears that 92% of motorway service station customers polled were happy with their visit, but only 66% thought that the food and drink available was good value.
If you detest such places, and are looking for alternative and delicious places to stop along the motorway, then look no further. The Extra Mile is a guidebook that steers motorists away from grim motorway services and into tasty local alternatives. It offers a hand-picked and dependable list of brilliant and independent outlets with good-quality local food (often direct from makers and growers), space for children and pets to let off steam, fascinating attractions and knock-out views. Farm shops, cosy cafes, quirky attractions and gastronomic pubs that restore a bit of magic to a journey, without adding too many miles.
Find out more at theextramile.guide
Win a copy of The Extra Mile!
We have a copy of The Extra Mile to give away. Simply leave us a message at the bottom of the page and we will pick a winner!
David Ledger
The Extra Mile sounds like a very good read. Let’s hope all the Motorway services’ customers don’t get hold of a copy, or these spots will be inundated !!
Matt blackmore
I’d go the extra mile for a copy of this book!
Andrew
There used to be a book called “Just off the Motorway”. What has happened to that?
Les Gunbie
Would always choose to go the extra mile if it means better quality, and less franchises.
John Fletcher
Choosing where to stop is good in theory, but if sleepiness strikes after unplanned hours in an M6 traffic jam (e.g.yesterday!) you just have to get off for caffeine at the very next opportunity, even if it’s one of the lowest-ranking hell holes.
Mike Croker
Probably more useful / relevant than the Good Pub Guide when on a long journey…
Jerv
stinking four service stations; nothing worse, how lovely to have some places which are recommended and lovely not so far of the beaten track.
Maggie
Great idea – indispensable information! Will get a copy in any case…
Geoff Wiles
Leaving the motorway for a short time can be most refreshing. Some of the European service stations have short woodland walks and basic exercise points to refresh the body and the befuddled brain.
Peter Gateley
Excellent must buy one if I don’t win a copy.
Nate
I heard about this book (or its predecessor) many years ago and would love to win a copy 🙂
Rhoda Wolf
This would be so useful to have in the car. Wish I’d had a copy last week……
Roy Pumfrey
Can’t believe that neither of the Gloucester Services are at the top of the best ones. A breathe of fresh air!
Greg
Saviour from the tyranny of the motorway service station.
Martin Lake
Good sometimes to see what is off the motorway. I try to include a visit to a place of interest in long motorway trips.
Christine Muller
Excellent! I am also in for buying a copy if I don’t win one 🙂
Gavin
This would be a very useful addition for the glovebox!
Michael Barnes
Any escape from the usual over-expensive and over-crowded motorway service stations must be welcome especially when it provides income locally for smaller business concerns often bypassed by the motorway.
Angela Dobson
What a brilliant idea this is, look forward to trying something out 😊
James Russell
Amazing how much variety, quality and something different you can get just a mile or two away from the motorway. Done it once or twice using other guides, and never once regretted it. Not only was the food good, but just so much more relaxing than motorway services, so that it becomes part of the holiday, not part of the journey.
david
I can’t believe Watford gap isn’t on the worst list!
Derek D
I always prefer to support local businesses where possible – this book will help that.
Gary
Great idea – will help for choosing venues for all those ‘meet half-way’ family gatherings !