Great Dunmow
A120 between the M11 and Braintree
Signposted from the road? As a tourist attraction
CM6 1SJ
map and directions
Two sites staggered between junctions, with no public connection between them.
Although this isn't technically a service station, it is a pair of purpose-built car and lorry parks maintained directly by England's national highway authority - and for that reason, it gains a place in our listings.
Facilities
Catering: westbound only: Batesy's Diner
and eastbound only: Snak Shak
Amenities: Toilets
Outdoor Space: Small picnic area
Parking Prices
Unlimited free parking is available for all vehicles on both sides.
This information is provided to us by third parties. You should always check with staff on site.
Contact Details
🏢 Address:
Dunmow
Essex
CM6 1SJ
Trivia and History
Both sites opened with the new A120 dual carriageway in 2004. They were built according to the rarely-used design guide for 'picnic areas', but those involved with the project decided to signpost the new facility as a "rest area".
The eastbound side is known as Ash Grove rest area, and the westbound side is known as Buttleys Lane rest area (sometimes referred to as Butley). Both sides opened with a toilet block and separate parking areas for cars and large vehicles.
Both sides gained dedicated hardstanding for catering facilities in 2011, although these have never actually been used by the traders. The eastbound side used an old coach for a time, whilst both sides have mostly received catering from the standard snack bar trailers. The eastbound catering has recently been provided from a portable building. The facilities were upgraded in 2022, with new hardstanding walkways and new picnic tables being added.
Now that a "rest area" is actually an official class of facility, the highway authority - who are still responsible for maintaining Great Dunmow - agree that it doesn't fall into that category and is actually just a well-provisioned lay-by.
Alternatives
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