Drivers are facing steep fuel charges of up to 205p per litre at motorway service stations over the Bank Holiday weekend, but new research from the AA suggests significant savings can be made by switching to A-roads.
Motorway Premium Hits 20p per Litre
According to analysis by the AA and Carwow, the average price of petrol on motorways is around 184.9p per litre, while diesel reaches 205.9p. In contrast, major A-roads offer petrol at an average of 163.4p per litre and diesel at 194.4p, representing a saving of up to 20p per litre.
The findings come as national average petrol prices have fallen to approximately 157.7p per litre, but motorway service stations continue to charge a significant premium, particularly on busy holiday routes.
Where to Fill Up for Less
The AA’s analysis revealed that 31 out of 50 motorway service areas were charging at least 184.9p for petrol at the start of the week. On key holiday routes, motorway pumps averaged 180.7p per litre for petrol and 203p for diesel, while A-road averages were substantially lower at 163.4p and 194.4p respectively.
Luke Bosdet, the AA’s spokesman on pump prices, said: "A summer of often ridiculously expensive motorway fuel is nearly upon us and the questions once again are, firstly, can a holiday trip be done in one hop without having to run the gauntlet of motorway service area fuel?" He added: "Secondly, which is better: go the motorway route for a faster journey but dearer fuel or the potentially slower A roads with much cheaper petrol and diesel?"
Drivers planning trips over the Bank Holiday weekend are advised to plan their refueling stops carefully, opting for A-road filling stations where possible to maximize savings.
