The UK’s most dog-friendly motorway service stations

If you’ve got a pup, chances are you’ll be heading on a UK staycation at some point this year. But when it comes to motorway pit stops, not all service stations are created equal. But, thankfully, more are waking up to the fact that dogs are part of the travel crew too.

So next time you hit the road with your canine companion in the boot, plan your stops with these ones in mind. Because these are the best dog-friendly motorway services in the UK, where you’ll find more than just a patch of grass and a water bowl for your beloved pup.

Gloucester – M5, Gloucestershire

An absolute gem on the M5, Gloucester Services feels more like a boutique deli than a motorway service station. It’s got a top-drawer farm shop, a scenic lake to stroll around, and it’s all dog friendly (even the foyer). There are signed dog-walking paths, outdoor seating, water bowls and even shady spots for warmer days. You’ll love stocking up on local cheese, while your pooch will love the lakeside walkies. It’s like a Cotswolds farm shop... with parking.

Tebay Services – M6, Cumbria

Run by the same family behind Gloucester, Tebay is a countryside oasis on the M6. It’s nestled among hills with ducks waddling about, and the service station has plenty of green space for dogs to stretch their legs. There’s outdoor seating and friendly staff who don’t blink an eye at muddy paws. Bonus points: the farm shop stocks treats you’ll actually want to eat. And your dog? They’ll be eyeing up the sausage rolls.

Cairn Lodge Services – M74, Lanarkshire

Heading to the Highlands or returning from a loch-side escape? Cairn Lodge is a beautifully refurbished spot that’s made with both humans and hounds in mind. There’s a designated dog-walking area with plenty of room for zoomies. You’ll find water bowls for your pup, as well as plenty of Scottish shortbread and coffee for yourself.

Hog & Hedge – Newbury, Berkshire (M4) and Okehampton, Devon (A30)

Hog & Hedge is a breath of fresh air on the UK’s service station scene. Both their locations get the paws-up from pups and their owners. Dogs are welcomed inside, with water bowls, biscuits and plenty of fuss. Plus, there’s a good amount of green space outside for stretching furry legs. Humans aren’t left out, either, with a play area, lounge areas and organic, locally sourced food up for grabs.

Killington Lake Services – M6 (Southbound), Cumbria

Like its name suggests, this place is tucked beside the Killington Reservoir. So, as far as motorway service stations go, it’s a scenic spot. The waterside walking is spot-on for both people and pets. What’s more, there’s outdoor seating for those nicer days.

Annandale – A74(M), Dumfries and Galloway

Another Scottish contender on the list, Annandale sits by a peaceful loch on the edge of the A74(M). There’s a circular walk around the water’s edge, with plenty of space for walkies. Whether you’re heading north or south through Scotland, you’ll want to add this perfect pit stop to your pup-approved list.

Donington Park – M1, Derby

Donington Park lines up a big field for dogs and owners to stretch their legs. If you fancy more of a walk, you can actually head on a longer walk to the nearby National Forest – the walk starts from the services. And, as with most Moto service stations, dogs are allowed inside on leads for trips to the toilet.

Hopwood Park – M42, Worcestershire

This Welcome Break service station has a nature reserve on site – it doesn’t get much more dog friendly than that. When it was built back in 1999, the developers created a 35-acre reserve behind the site, so your dog can really go to town with the zoomies. Well-behaved dogs are also allowed inside, so you can use the toilets or indoor seating areas, if the weather’s not on your side. They’re just not allowed in the restaurants or shops.

Beaconsfield Services – M40, Buckinghamshire

Beaconsfield is often ranked one of the best motorway services in the UK, thanks to its huge variety of eateries and family-friendly activities. But did you know this Extra Services also had a soft spot for dogs? There’s a large lake with a trail for dog walks, grassy areas away from the traffic and outdoor benches. In 2024, they also added doggy drinking stations and special dog walking maps to help dog owners navigate the extensive grounds.

Honourable mentions…

These motorway services narrowly missed out on the top spots, but they still have grassy areas nearby and welcome four-legged friends.

M1: Woodall, Woolley Edge & Skelton Lake

M18: Doncaster North

M25: Cobham

M3: Winchester

M4: Reading & Sarn Park

M40: Cherwell Valley & Warwick

M42: Tamworth

M5: Strensham & Tiverton

M54: Telford

M74: Bothwell & Hamilton

M90: Kinross

And, if you need somewhere to stay, have a browse of our pet-friendly hotel deals.