Motorists driving along the M6 motorway often spot a striking UFO-shaped structure rising above Lancaster Services, formerly known as Forton Services. This futuristic landmark, the Pennine Tower, resembles a scene from a sci-fi movie and serves as one of the route’s most distinctive features.
Design and Original Purpose
The Brutalist Pennine Tower opened in 1965 as a restaurant perched 65 feet high, designed like an air traffic control tower. Developers constructed it to draw passing drivers’ attention during Britain’s post-World War II motorway boom, when roadside advertising remained prohibited.
Inside, diners enjoyed upscale meals such as steak and lobster with panoramic views of the bustling motorway below. The tower formed a key part of the service station, which includes an enclosed bridge linking facilities across the road. Construction cost around £885,000 at the time, equivalent to approximately £14 million today, marking a significant investment in the nation’s expanding road network.
Decline and Closure
Despite its unique appeal, the restaurant faced challenges attracting steady customers in such an unconventional location. Food quality declined over time, leading to its conversion into a truckers’ lounge. The tower closed to the public in 1989 when all shops shut down, primarily due to failing modern fire safety standards, including the lack of an alternative emergency exit.
Following the closure, the structure housed service station offices for about 15 years before falling into complete disuse.
Current Status and Legacy
Today, the Pennine Tower stands empty while Lancaster Services thrives with fuel, food, and rest options for travelers. The abandoned site has evolved into a beloved landmark for drivers in north-west England. In 2012, authorities granted it Grade II listed status, preserving its historical significance amid the operational service area.
