The M4 Motorway is the main route from London to Wales. From its start at Junction 1 where the A4 becomes the M4 it close to Reading, Swindon and Bristol before crossing the Severn Bridge and entering Wales where it goes past to Newport, Cardiff and Swansea.
The M4 is nearly 200 miles long starting at Junction 1 in Chiswick and finishing at Junction 49 at Pont Abraham in West Wales. Read on for a M4 Services Map and alternative places to stop along the M4 Motorway.
M4 Motorway Map
Click here for a Google Map of the M4 with Junctions, Services and nearby Attractions
M4 Services
There are 10 Service stations on the M4. Four of these are in England and six are in Wales. The 4 English services on M4 are quite far apart so it is worth planning your stop in advance. Once over the Severn bridge there are 6 M4 services stations in Wales so you have plenty of options.
M4 Services Map
Click here for a Google Map of the M4 Services
M4 Junctions
Despite finishing at J49 there are actually 50 Junctions on the M4, Junction 8/9 near Maidenhead is one combined and the are several M4 junctions numbers with two separate junctions 4a and 4b at Heathrow, plus 23a and 25a at Magor and Newport. Intriguingly there is no Junction 31 – you can read more about that here
The M4 Motorway meets the M25 Motorway at Junction 15 of the M25 and Junction 4b of the M4. The M3 Motorway can be reached from Junction 8/9 towards Bracknell
M4 Junctions Map
Click here for a Google Map of the M4 Junctions
Off Motorway stops near the M4
Whilst an easy stop service stations on the M4 can be both expensive and depressing. Here are some attractions close to junctions that might make your journey a little more joyful. Please do check opening times and entry prices (where applicable) before visiting
Butterfly World & Farm Park
Where is it: Just off junction 16 of the M4, a good alternative to Membury or Leigh Delamere Services
What is it: A family friendly attraction where you can see a wide range of Butterflys and Moths. There is also a Garden Centre with a cafe and a Soft Play barn.
Link: https://www.studleygrange.co.uk/butterflyworld/butterfly_world/
Snelsmore Common Country Park
Where is it: Near Junction 13 of the M4, a good alternative to Reading or Membury Services
What is it: A nature reserve with a number of walking trails. Dogs on leads are permitted and there is a cafe with toilets.
Who is it for: Anyone needing a nice place to stretch their legs on a long journey
Link: https://www.bbowt.org.uk/nature-reserves/snelsmore-common-country-park
Dyrham Park
Where is it: Near Junction 18 of the M4
What is it: A National Trust property with a 17th century house and garden. There is a Tea room and a small dog walking area near the car park. Like all National Trust properties entry to the house can be expensive but you may be able to park and just use the cafe without entering the house.
Who is it for: National Trust members
Link: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dyrham-park/
McDonalds Coldra Roundabout
Where is it: Just off Junction 24 of the M4, an alternative to Magor services
What is it: It’s a McDonalds and it’s open 24 Hours. There’s also a petrol station on the other side of the roundabout it’s on
Who is it for: Everyone loves a Maccy D’s right?
Link: https://www.mcdonalds.com/gb/en-gb/location/newport/coldra-roundabout/8260942.html
Castell Coch
Where is it: Between Junction 30 and 32 on the M4
What is it: An historic Welsh castle, often voted as the most popular building in Wales
Who is it for: Everyone / Families
Link: https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/castell-coch