Gloucester Services Southbound — Attraction in Stroud

never thought I’d say this about a motorway service station, but Gloucester Services is genuinely a highlight of any journey. Forget everything you know about the typical greasy fast food chains and soulless rest stops — this place is on an entirely different level. It’s not just a place to refuel the car, but somewhere you actually want to stop, relax, and enjoy.

From the moment you pull in, the atmosphere is different. The building itself blends beautifully into the landscape with its grass-covered roof and eco-conscious design. Inside, it’s light, airy, and thoughtfully laid out — more like a countryside farm shop and café than a motorway services.

The food is, quite honestly, exceptional. Fresh, locally sourced, and clearly prepared with care. I had a hot meal from the café — a proper homemade pie with buttery mash and seasonal greens — and it was absolutely delicious. Far beyond what you’d ever expect at a service station. There’s also a great selection of sandwiches, salads, and sweet treats if you’re after something lighter or on-the-go.

What really sets Gloucester Services apart is the farm shop. Stocked with high-quality local produce, independent brands, and artisan goods, it’s impossible to walk out empty-handed. From fresh bakery items and deli cheeses to handmade gifts and locally brewed beers, it’s the kind of place you’d happily browse even if you weren’t on a road trip.

Cleanliness is top-tier. The toilets are spotless, well-maintained, and spacious — even during busy hours. It’s clear that everything is regularly cleaned and well-managed, which makes a big difference when you’re on the road.

Staff are friendly, helpful, and seem genuinely proud to be part of such a unique place. There’s no rushed, transactional feel — it’s relaxed and welcoming, which is exactly what you want when you’re taking a break from driving.

In a world where most motorway services are purely functional, Gloucester Services is a refreshing reminder of how things can be done right. It champions sustainability, supports local suppliers, and delivers a customer experience that’s second to none.

If you’re travelling up or down the M5, do yourself a favour and make the time to stop here. Whether it’s for a proper meal, a coffee break, or just to stretch your legs somewhere beautiful, Gloucester Services is worth every minute. Five stars — a...

I think it fair to say that - in my opinion - Gloucester Services (both north and southbound) is the very best motorway service station within the radius of my travels.

Parking is plentiful; occasionally seems quite full in the "front" area outside the building entrance, but plenty of overflow available.

It's a shopping destination for some, and not just a motorway break, so occasionally perhaps a little busier than one might normally expect. Having said that, being busy isn't a problem here in the slightest.

The facilities are excellent, with the outlets and eateries predominantly based on fresh and local products. With the clear steer towards eco friendliness and sustainability, it's just a really pleasant place to be.

The café area is spacious with a great choice of hot and cold dishes. On a nice day, seating outside is the premium location; right next to the reed bed pond where all sorts of wildlife are set to entertain. Take a walk around out there too; nice space to relax.

There's also hot food counter in the main atrium with superb pies, sausage rolls, and other quick easy-to-eat fayre along with coffees (and we all know I like a coffee).

Make sure to visit the Farm Shop; filled with lush stuff, and there's even a proper butcher. The offerings are plentiful, and although perhaps not the cheapest basket you'll ever hold, the selection is special enough to warrant the treat.

This is the standard to which all service stations in the UK should be gearing themselves.

NB. this review duplicated for north and...

Brilliant services for travellers with dogs. There are extensive dog walking areas with large grasses sections and well laid paths. The dog walking area is to the far left of the services main entrance as you look at it and well signed.

The facilities at the station itself are a little more expensive than usual but the health options and quality is also superior in my opinion.

There is a farm shop on the right as soon as you enter, on the left is a kitchen facility with instant coffee machines also available.

Just beyond the kitchen facility also on the right is the toilet area including disabled toilets and shower facilities. Going beyond that is an expansive seating area with a selection of tables and more enclosed booths at one end.

Down the middle of the service station main walk through are a selection of cake and pastry stands.

There is disabled parking right outside the door, there are no steps into or out of the building so access with pushchairs, buggies and wheel chairs should be okay. There are also dog water bowls by the main entrance.

There is a free Wi-Fi service available should you need it, mobile signal was also okay with EE. The petrol station is on the way out and has a lot of pumps.

Don’t stop here if you’re expecting McDonalds, Burger King or anything of that sort, this is a services which focuses on home bakes, cakes and healthy eating options. They have their own versions of most of the items you would find at...