Hot on the heels of its success on the Channel 4 series, A Cotswold Farmshop, Gloucester Services at Junction 11a of the M5 has been voted the UK's most outstanding service station.
To determine the ranking, Kia's research department looked at customer reviews, the number and quality of amenities, free parking duration, availability of EV charging and overall aesthetics.
As well as boasting stunning interiors, with wooden beams and natural materials throughout, the family-run service station is renowned for its upmarket farmshop that stocks luxury produce, and its kitchen restaurant that serves delicious homemade dishes and baked goods, with everything made from scratch on-site.
The service station has won a whole host of awards since opening, including a RIBA National Award from the Royal Institute of British Architects for the building's design that honours the local landscape and countryside; and a Building with Nature award from Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, in recognition of green infrastructure that enhances ecological connectivity.
A spokesperson from Kia said: 'We believe every journey should be an exceptional experience, so we were keen to uncover new research to help motorists have an even better trip across the UK.
'Convenience and comfort are vital on the road, but aesthetically stunning surroundings can bring even more to your drive. Gloucester offers it all, with a beautiful location, stunning buildings and a local farm shop where visitors can enjoy a butcher’s counter, patisserie and deli counter. Next time you take a road trip in the area, we'd strongly recommend a pit stop at these excellent services.'
As well as the popular farmshop and kitchen restaurant — that are well-frequented by locals, not just passing motorists — Gloucester Services also has a gelato counter, children's play area, dog-walking routes, an outdoor dining terrace and nature pond.
Gloucester's sister service station, Tebay Services on the M6 in Cumbria, took the second spot in the new ranking and and is also owned by the same family.
