Gloucester Services on the M5 is a well-known stop for travelers, famed for its TV-featured farm shop and bustling atmosphere. While it’s deserving of the acclaim, its popularity means it can get quite busy, especially in summer. If you’re looking for a quieter, equally delightful option, Pound Farm Shop and Plant Centre is just a short drive away and well worth the detour.
Nestled in Whaddon, over the A4173 from Gloucester Services, Pound Farm Shop offers a peaceful retreat from the motorway rush. This family-run business has thrived for more than 125 years, spanning five generations since 1901. The shop boasts over 100 varieties of plants and seeds alongside more than 120 garden decorations and gifts—from gardening tools to homemade jams and curds.
In 2020, the farm shop expanded its offerings with The Old Dairy Coffee Shop. When I visited on a sunny Wednesday afternoon in July, it proved to be a perfect, relaxing lunch spot. Despite being near a main road, the café is tucked behind rows of potted plants and flowers, creating a serene, garden-like setting where the sound of traffic fades into the background.
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Before sitting down, I browsed the lush plant selection, then ordered from a menu featuring sandwiches, paninis, jacket potatoes, salads, and soups. The special that day was a pork bap with apple and stuffing, served with a side salad for just £6.95. Though they had run out of baps, my sandwich on regular bread was a delicious treat—the crumbly stuffing and tangy apple sauce melted perfectly in soft, fluffy bread.
The meal was accompanied by a fresh side salad and a handful of ready salted crisps, making for a light but satisfying lunch. Eating outside amidst the greenery, I even had a friendly robin join me, hoping for a crumb or two.
Despite it being a weekday, the outdoor tables had a warm, social vibe, with groups of friends enjoying their afternoon in the café’s inviting atmosphere. After lunch, I explored the farm shop itself. While not as large as Gloucester Services, Pound Farm Shop has a charming minimalist feel with plenty of quality products, including some tempting treats—I couldn’t resist a pack of oat chocolate chip cookies for £2.75.
Pound Farm Shop welcomes visitors from 9am-5pm Monday to Saturday, and 9am-4pm on Sundays. The Old Dairy Coffee Shop is open 9am-4:30pm Monday to Saturday, and 9am-3:30pm on Sundays. Next time you’re near the M5 and craving a calm, countryside-inspired break, give this hidden gem a visit—you might find it’s just the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch and a browse in the garden.