Spend enough nights out on the road and you will see things most people never do. Empty lay-bys, misty A-roads and quiet service stations at 3am can all feel a world away from the daytime rush. It is no surprise, then, that many drivers have a spooky story or two.
With Halloween in mind, Bluestones 360 asked professional drivers to share some of the eerie moments they have experienced on the UK road network. These tales are light-hearted, but they also highlight how different familiar routes can feel after dark.
Foggy lay-bys and strange sounds
One common theme is the isolated lay-by. Drivers talk about parking up on a rural stretch of road, switching the engine off and instantly becoming aware of every creak and rustle outside the cab. A bit of fog, a single streetlight and a few unfamiliar noises can quickly set the imagination racing.
Footsteps with no obvious source, knocks on the cab door and doors creaking when there is not a breath of wind – all have been mentioned more than once.
Motorways with a reputation
Certain roads have built up almost legendary status over the years. From moorland stretches with a history of accidents to long, lonely sections where drivers say they have seen figures at the roadside that vanish on second glance, the stories keep coming.
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, it is easy to see how tired eyes, bad weather and long night runs can combine to play tricks on even the most experienced driver.
Service stations after midnight
Many motorway services feel bright, busy and completely ordinary in the daytime. Visit the same place in the early hours, however, and it is a different experience. Half-lit corridors, closed shopfronts and echoing footsteps make even modern buildings feel a little unsettling.
Staying safe when the road feels spooky
Joking aside, safety always comes first:
- Trust your instincts – if a parking spot does not feel right, move on if it is safe to do so.
- Where possible, choose well-lit areas with other vehicles around.
- Let your transport office or a colleague know where you are parked.
- Keep doors locked and be cautious about opening them unexpectedly.
Good route planning, regular breaks and sticking to familiar rest points can make night work more comfortable and less stressful.
At Bluestones 360, we understand that professional driving is about far more than getting from A to B. We work closely with drivers and clients to match people with routes, working patterns and roles that suit their lifestyle.
