M25 traffic: Top motorway service stations near London - including Cobham, Thurrock, and Heston

As the bank holiday weekend approaches, the great London exodus begins. Whether you're escaping to the coast, the countryside, or simply chasing a change of scenery, the motorways swell with like-minded city-dwellers all with the same idea: get out, and fast.

But before the freedom of rolling hills or sea air comes the grind of traffic, tailbacks on the M25, queues at the Dartford Crossing, and service stations teeming with fellow travellers.

Likewise, returning to the capital at the end of a long weekend can be equally gruelling. That creeping dread of the Monday evening crawl back into the city is all too familiar. Which is why finding a good service station that’s clean, well-stocked, and maybe even scenic can make all the difference.

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These motorway pit stops aren’t just for fuel and fast food. They’re a chance to stretch your legs, reset your mind, and keep everyone in the car sane.

Whether you’re heading out for a weekend of fun or winding your way home, here’s our pick of the best motorway service stations near London – your essential stops for coffee, calm, and a decent toilet.

1. Cobham Services (M25, Junction 9/10) – Surrey

Where: Just off the M25 between Junctions 9 and 10.

Why it's great:

• One of the newest and largest on the M25.
• Bright, modern facilities with ample parking.
• Wide choice of food including McDonald’s, KFC, LEON, Nando’s, Starbucks, and Pret A Manger.
• Marks & Spencer Simply Food and WHSmith on site.
• Excellent accessibility and baby-changing facilities.
• Dedicated outdoor seating and dog-walking areas.

2. Beaconsfield Services (M40, Junction 2) – Buckinghamshire

Where: Just northwest of the M25 on the M40, 25 minutes from central London.

Why it's great:

• One of the most spacious service stations in the UK.
• Features a large Wetherspoons pub, Starbucks, Greggs, and El Mexicana.
• A fantastic indoor and outdoor area for families.
• Hotel on site (Ibis Budget).
• Popular for longer breaks and meal stops.

3. South Mimms Services (M25, Junction 23 with A1(M)) – Hertfordshire

Where: Just north of London where the M25 meets the A1(M).

Why it's great:

• Very busy but recently refurbished.
• Food outlets include Burger King, KFC, Starbucks, and Pret A Manger.
• WHSmith and M&S Food for snacks and travel supplies.
• EV charging stations available.
• Pet-friendly areas and good for quick stops.

4. Clacket Lane Services (M25, Between Junctions 5 and 6) – Kent

Where: On both sides of the M25 in Surrey/Kent.

Why it's great:

• Convenient for drivers heading to/from Gatwick or the M23.
• Includes Greggs, Starbucks, WHSmith, and M&S Simply Food.
• Eastbound and westbound have mirrored facilities.
• Scenic views for a motorway location.

5. Reading Services (M4, Junctions 11–12) – Berkshire

Where: About 40 minutes west of London on the M4.

Why it's great:

• One of the best-rated on the M4 corridor.
• Restaurants include KFC, Burger King, Costa Coffee, and Tossed.
• Clean toilets and multiple family-friendly amenities.
• A small hotel and picnic area.
• Ideal for longer stops when heading to the West Country.

6. Thurrock Services (M25, Junction 30/31) – Essex

Where: Near the Dartford Crossing on the Essex side.

Why it's great:

• Serves a huge volume of London-bound traffic.
• Food court with Greggs, KFC, Burger King, and Subway.
• EV charging points and a large fuel station.
• Good for a short refreshment stop.

7. Heston Services (M4, Junction 2 – London-bound only) – West London

Where: Just before entering central London from the M4.

Why it's great:

• Convenient for people arriving in the capital.
• Costa, WHSmith, and Burger King are available.
• Compact but useful for a final break before entering the city.

However, it can get busy at peak hours.