Gloucester Services, located between junctions 11A and 12 on the busy M5 motorway, is celebrated as the best motorway service station in the UK, thanks to its commitment to local produce, eco-friendly buildings, and a welcoming, family-run atmosphere. This unique stop features a farm shop, a restaurant with homemade meals, a play area, and even a peaceful pond, making it a refreshing break for travelers.
However, Sophie Harris, a senior lifestyle reporter for the Mirror, shared a more nuanced view after several visits. While she acknowledged the station’s charm and praised elements like the impressive cheese counter and the “proper” butcher’s deli, she was less impressed by some aspects. The bread and pastries in the farm shop appeared dry and past their prime, and the sheer variety of products sometimes felt overwhelming.
Most notably, Sophie found the prices at Gloucester Services to be on the steep side. Her bill for just two items neared £12, leading her to describe the station in two simple words: “very expensive.” Despite this, she recognized that the premium prices reflect the emphasis on local artisan producers and quality over mass-produced goods.
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Sophie also appreciated the station’s partnership with the Gloucestershire Gateway Trust, which invests up to 3p from every £1 spent back into local communities. She concluded that while Gloucester Services might be pricier than typical service stations, its unique offerings and atmosphere make it well worth a visit—so long as travelers are ready to spend a little extra.