I stopped at the Leeds M1 service station rated best for families and my son didn’t want to get back in the car

“Are we there yet? how longs left? I need a wee, can we get out now?” …if you have ever attempted a road trip with kids you will know these repetive requests all too well.

Try as you might – ipads, snacks, colouring and all the activities in the world – it won’t stop little ones getting fed up of being in the car during a long journey.

Thankfully, there is a brand new £64M service station, situated just two miles East of Leeds City Centre ^[1] at junction 45 on the M1 that provides the perfect pit stop for families looking to stretch their legs.

Leeds Skelton Lake Services ^[2] has been dubbed the most family-friendly services in the North, so sure enough during a recent two-and-a-half-hour road trip from Saddleworth to Bridlington ^[3] with my three-year-old, when the problem of needing to burn off some energy arose, I knew just where to pull off.

As we pulled up I was instantly taken by surprise by this futuristic-looking building. Alongside the high-powered electric vehicle chargers and 24-hour Texaco petrol station, Leeds Skelton Lake Services is also home to a nature reserve, multiple premium eateries and a contemporary outdoor play area, essentially making it a leisure destination in its own right.

(Image: Yorkshire Live – Megan Shaw)

Upon getting out of the car my three-year-old was instantly impressed by the living green roof, which immediately catches your eye. The building itself is awe-inspiring with its innovative design that is built into the natural landscape, blending effortlessly into its picturesque surroundings.

We entered and immediately felt like we were in a shopping centre rather than a service station. The place is huge and filled with many family favourites from Nandos to Pizza Express to Leon and KFC, there’s something to appease every family member.

(Image: Megan Shaw – Leeds Live)

We had a wander around before heading upstairs to the RSPB visitors centre, which my son loved. The dedicated wildlife spot is complete with its own viewing deck, where you can take in the impressive views across the stunning Skelton Lake Nature Reserve and hopefully spot a bird or two.

After this we grabbed a bite to eat from Tortilla and opted to take-out so we could explore the outdoors. Upon walking out the back door we discovered the delightful alfresco area, which feels miles away from the motorway and the City Centre.

(Image: Megan Shaw – Leeds Live)

We made ourselves comfortable on one of the many picnic benches whilst my little one burnt off some built-up steam on the modern play area, which was immaculate.

The park is perfect for all ages and features wooden swings, slides and beams, with ample space to climb up, run, and jump. My son loved it so much he didn’t want to get back in the car!

(Image: Megan Shaw – Leeds Live)

If you’ve a little more time to kill there is also the option of heading through the gate and down onto the track that circles the lake, providing the perfect place to stretch the legs, whether that be on foot or bike.

Whilst sat basking in the sunshine watching my little one play and enjoying my burrito, I felt a million miles away from where I was. Leeds Skelton Lake Services is no ordinary service station and it certainly took me by surprise!

(Image: Megan Shaw – Leeds Live)

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We headed back to the car ready to tackle the rest of the journey feeling rested and refreshed. My overall view was that it is no wonder Leeds Skelton Lake Services is such a desired stop-off point, it deserves all the credit it gets and more.

Now I know what’s on offer, I will certainly be planning a stop off on my next trip and my son has already asked when we can go back!

References

^{^} Leeds City Centre (www.leeds-live.co.uk)
^{^} Leeds Skelton Lake Services (www.leeds-live.co.uk)
^{^} Bridlington (www.leeds-live.co.uk)
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