New Study Ranks Exeter as UK’s Top Service Station for Drivers

A recent study has identified Exeter as the best service station in the United Kingdom, according to drivers. Conducted by Northgate Vehicle Hire, the research assessed various factors crucial for travelers, including the availability of electric vehicle charging points, parking costs, and the presence of green spaces. This finding comes as many Britons prepare for increased travel during the Christmas season, when families and friends often embark on long journeys.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents emphasizes the importance of taking a break every two hours of driving. Whether for a quick rest or to refuel, having a suitable place to stop can greatly enhance the travel experience. Exeter stands out with its impressive offering of 56 electric vehicle charging points and 13 food and drink outlets. Additionally, parking is free for the first two hours, making it a convenient choice for weary travelers.

Top Results in the Rankings

Following Exeter, the second-best service station is Newport Pagnell Southbound, located on the M1 between junctions 14 and 15. This station not only provides ample green space for visitors to stretch their legs but also boasts a diverse selection of food and drink options. It has become a favored stop for many, particularly those traveling with pets.

Fleet Services, situated on the M3, ranks third. It is especially popular among families heading to LEGOLAND Windsor. Fleet provides 26 rapid charging points for electric vehicles and features 16 food and drink outlets. A unique highlight at Fleet is its partnership with the charity Electric Umbrella, which has installed a bright yellow piano for visitors, allowing them to take a moment to relax and enjoy music during their journey.

Wetherby Services and Cambridge Services claim fourth and fifth places, respectively, both offering facilities that cater to the needs of drivers on the go.

Spencer Davi, the Sales and Marketing Director at Northgate Vehicle Hire, remarked, “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.”

For context, here are the top ten service stations and their overall scores according to the study:

1. Exeter Motorway: M5, Overall score: 71.67
2. Newport Pagnell Southbound Motorway: M1, Overall score: 66.90
3. Fleet Motorway: M3, Overall score: 64.58
4. Wetherby Motorway: A1 (M), Overall score: 60.25
5. Cambridge Motorway: A14, Overall score: 59.32
6. Cobham Motorway: M25, Overall score: 59.15
7. South Mimms Motorway: M25, Overall score: 57.32
8. Ferrybridge Motorway: M62, Overall score: 56.98
9. Reading Westbound Motorway: M4, Overall score: 56.85
10. Scotch Corner Motorway: A1 (M), Overall score: 55.48

Methodology Behind the Rankings

Northgate Vehicle Hire utilized data from Motorway Services Online (MSO) for its ratings, including the number of food and drink outlets and parking costs. Information about green spaces was sourced from MSO or the service stations’ official websites. Hotel ratings were compiled through Google Maps, and data on electric vehicle charging points came from Zapmap. Dual service stations were ranked collectively when they received the same scores and shared hotels.

As the holiday season approaches, the findings from this study could influence drivers’ choices, making it essential to consider the best service stations for a safe and enjoyable journey.