The humble roadside truck stop is as much an iconic symbol of lorry driving as the ‘Steadie’ Eddie Stobart HGV’s that chug up and down the UK’s A roads, B roads, motorways and country lanes.
Although it seems that service stations, with their fast food chains, unimaginative designs and ‘sub-standard’ food are a driver’s first choice for a quick pit stop, there are still some hidden gems tucked away at the roadside that offer that special something to the long-distance lorry driver that your standard motorway services just cannot deliver.
So here are the top five truck stops no driver can afford to miss.
Where? Golcar, Huddersfield – M62 J23
Why? Home of Britain’s best bacon butty!
Just three miles off Junction 23 of the M62 in the Rugby League town of Huddersfield, Bolster Moor Farm Shop is a Yorkshire institution for any hungry driver passing through that side of the Pennines.
With their homemade fare, northern friendly welcoming, not to mention their award winning pies, ‘Yorkshire’s Best Cafe’ is as quintessentially of its county as Fred Trueman wearing a white rose.
And if that isn’t enough to tempt you, the title of Britain’s Best Bacon Butty definitely will.
Where? Lesmahagow, South Lanarkshire – M74 J10
Why? Britain’s number one truck stop!
Now as we know, the quality of truck stops varies throughout the UK (we’ve heard all the horror stories), but very rarely does a new truck stop come along and earn the title of Britain’s Truck Stop of the Year so quickly.
Facilities include a well-stocked shop, car and truck wash, showers and fuel bunkering, all of which operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There’s also a fantastic American-style diner serving hot and cold food every day at extremely reasonable prices.
Where? Chippenham, M4 J17
Why? On site barber shop!
This family-run truck stop is one of the best the West Country has to offer. As well as all the facilities you’d expect (excellent food, spotless toilets and showers, 24/7 fuel station) Chippenham Pit Stop also has a few more unusual offerings, including a barber shop! There’s even Driver CPC courses run here.
What’s more, if you’re a frequent driver in this area, their Pit Stop Privilege card is a must-have. Earn points on every purchase, which add up to vouchers for the shop and restaurant, plus get great discounts in the shop as standard.
Where? West Midlands, M6 J12
Why? Bargain accommodation!
Allegedly the oldest truck stop in Great Britain, the New Hollies Truck Stop is a great place to stop in the heart of England. Coming highly recommended by drivers themselves, you can be sure of top notch food and a comfortable place to relax after a long day.
Plus, to get a break from your bunk you can get a night in their on site accommodation from as little as £30, which includes full cooked breakfast. So why not make a night of it – there’s even a fully licensed bar to really help you unwind!
Where? Kent, M20 J10
Why? On site gym!
A must-stop for any driver heading to or from Europe, Ashford Truck Stop is a convenient location for both Folkstone and Dover ports. This is a truck stop which really cares about its customers, and following their feedback, have made a number of changes that really set it aside from other truck stops.
Long-haul journeys can be tough on the health of a driver, so Ashford Truck Stop have not only added some nutritious (and delicious) options to their menu, but even built an on-site gym, which you can become a member of for less than a tenner for the whole year!
Which is your favourite truck stop in the UK? Let us know in the comments below!
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