Opened in March 2025, Sawtry Services is Moto’s newest motorway service area, filling a useful gap on the A1(M) between Huntingdon and Peterborough. Around £17 million was invested in the development, which includes a BP forecourt, dedicated HGV parking and a modern two-storey amenities building.

The services are located beside Junction 15, with direct access for northbound traffic. Southbound drivers can also reach the site, though the route requires leaving the A1(M) and using local roads. It is therefore less convenient from that direction, particularly for anyone driving a full-length artic.

HGVs follow the signs past the main car park to a separate parking area behind the amenities building. There are 38 designated truck spaces on hardstanding. This is a reasonable provision for a comparatively compact site, but the spaces may fill quickly during busy evenings. The layout is also tighter than at many purpose-built independent truckstops, so you may need to take extra care when manoeuvring.

Parking is free for the first two hours. The advertised charge for up to 24 hours is £32, or £35 including a £10 food voucher. Payment can be made at the services or via JustPark using location number 625173. SNAP parking payments are accepted under location number 19104. Parking restrictions are enforced using ANPR, so drivers should ensure that payment and registration details have been entered correctly.

Inside, Sawtry feels newer and brighter than many motorway service areas. The extensive glazing, timber-effect finishes and mezzanine seating create a spacious, contemporary environment. Public feedback since opening has frequently praised the building’s cleanliness, the toilets and showers, and the friendly attitude of staff. Inevitably, experiences can vary during peak periods, when the catering outlets and limited HGV parking are likely to be under the greatest pressure.

Food is available from the familiar motorway chain of Burger King, Costa Coffee, Greggs and Pret A Manger. M&S Food and WHSmith provide sandwiches, snacks, drinks and other journey essentials. Costa is open 24 hours, while Greggs opens at 5am on weekdays and 6am at weekends. Burger King currently trades until 10pm. Opening hours may change, so late-night drivers may have a more limited selection.

The site has toilets, accessible facilities, a Changing Places room, and showers. Free Wi-Fi is available inside the building, while the BP forecourt offers fuel, plus a Greggs and Costa Express. The site also has GRIDSERVE high-power EV chargers, although these are intended primarily for cars rather than electric HGVs.

Sawtry is not a traditional truckstop with a home-cooked café, laundry, truckwash or drivers’ social area. Nevertheless, it offers clean, modern facilities, a hot shower, several food options and useful overnight parking on a busy route. Its principal weaknesses are the relatively small truck park, strict parking enforcement and inconvenient southbound access. For northbound drivers seeking a straightforward overnight stop, however, it is a welcome addition to the A1(M).

SAWTRY SERVICES, A1

38 dedicated HGV spaces, although the relatively compact parking area may fill quickly during busy periods.
The bright mezzanine seating area provides a quieter place to eat or take a break away from the main food court.