Meet Rich Cross, the ‘Service Station King’ of the UK! 🚗⛽️ Over the past decade, Rich has embarked on a unique journey, visiting all 97 official service stations across the UK in his trusty two-door Smart Car. Inspired by trips with his dad during school holidays, Rich’s passion for service stations knows no bounds.
After spending more than 13 years exploring, Rich has become an expert in spotting the red flags that can make or break a service station experience. His top tips? Avoid stations that are too busy – poor customer service can be a dealbreaker! 🚧 Messy toilets? Big no-no. And don’t even get him started on potholes – a nightmare for regular lorry drivers!
So which stations stand out among the rest? Rich admires the iconic Lancaster Services on the M6 with its striking Pennine Tower. And for those wanting a unique dining experience, he recommends sites like Charnock Richard and Leicester Forest East, which have quirky motorway bridges. Newer stations like Leeds Skelton Lake are trying something different, blending the environment with functionality for a refreshing pit stop.
Rich’s idea of a perfect service station? It’s all about offering variety for different customer needs. Clean facilities, plentiful EV chargers, and seamless access are must-haves.🏆 Gloucester, Tebay, Beaconsfield, Rugby, and Cairn Lodge are often hailed as the best – here’s why: Gloucester, Tebay, and Cairn Lodge wow with farm shop styles and fresh, locally sourced produce. Rugby impresses with its new, eco-friendly setup, while Beaconsfield offers a wide range of brands, making it a popular stop on the M40.
What’s your go-to service station? And do you agree with Rich’s picks? Let us know in the comments below! 🛣️✨