Charnock Richard Services on the M6

Charnock Richard is in Lancashire, just south of Preston, and has been looking after M6 drivers for longer than any other stop on the road.

Where	M6, between Junctions 27 and 28
Which side	A site on each side, joined by a bridge
Operator	Welcome Break

Food, fuel and facilities at Charnock Richard

Food and drink includes Burger King and KFC on the bridge. There is also a Ramada hotel, plus EV charging from Tesla and GRIDSERVE. Outlets and opening hours change from time to time, so it is worth checking with the operator if you are relying on something in particular.

Worth knowing

Charnock Richard opened on 29 July 1963. It was the first service area on the M6, and the first in Britain with a restaurant on a bridge across the motorway.

The nearest services either side

Heading south, the next stop you can use is Knutsford (between Junctions 18 and 19). Heading north, the next stop you can use is Lancaster (Forton) (between Junctions 32 and 33). See all M6 services for the full list, from Rugby to the border.

Check the M6 before you stop

A quick look at the latest M6 traffic news tells you whether there is a closure or queue between you and Charnock Richard. You can also check M6 roadworks, M6 accidents and M6 closures tonight.