If you drive an electric vehicle (EV), or you’re thinking of making the switch, knowing where to charge is just as important as what you drive. At Pike+Bambridge, we’ve seen first-hand how the UK’s public charging infrastructure has evolved, from a patchy selection of chargers in major cities to a nationwide network of over 75,000 public EV chargepoints (compared to around 8,300 petrol stations for context).
While that’s excellent news for EV drivers, it still requires a degree of planning, especially if you’re heading out on longer journeys or don’t have access to home charging. So, let’s cut through the clutter. Below, we’re breaking down the best public EV charging solutions in the UK today, along with the key apps to help you navigate them seamlessly.
The best EV charging stations
The good news is: the UK’s EV infrastructure is growing fast. The caveat? Not all charging networks are created equal. Prices, charging speeds, access methods, and overall user experience can vary significantly. Here’s what you need to know about the top providers.
Tesla Supercharger Network
With over 60,000 Superchargers worldwide, Tesla operates one of the largest and most established fast-charging networks globally. Located primarily along major travel routes and close to useful amenities, the network is designed to support long-distance electric driving.
Originally exclusive to Tesla drivers, a growing number of Supercharger locations are now open to non-Tesla EVs, so long as your car is CCS (Combined Charging System) compatible.
With the Tesla app, you can view Supercharger stall availability, monitor your charge status or get notified when you’re fully charged and ready to go.
Speed: Up to 250kW
Best for: Long-distance travel, reliability
App: Tesla app (essential if you want access to their network, and thankfully free)
Gridserve Electric Highway
Gridserve is building what we like to call the “motorway backbone” of the UK’s EV network. Their ultra-rapid chargers are popping up at major motorway service areas and retail destinations. With renewable energy powering every unit, it’s future-fit too.
Gridserve is best known for its Electric Forecourts, dedicated charging hubs that offer drivers the opportunity to recharge their vehicles while enjoying on-site facilities such as food, drink, and lounge areas.
Charging is straightforward, with no app or membership required, just tap a contactless card or device at the terminal to start. This simplicity sets GRIDSERVE apart from some other networks that still rely on proprietary apps or accounts.
Speed: Up to 350kW
Best for: Rapid motorway charging
App: Gridserve or use contactless
InstaVolt
InstaVolt has become a quiet hero of UK public charging. Their chargers are fast, practical, and often found in convenient locations like McDonald’s and Costa sites due to their partnerships with retail and hospitality businesses.
As the name suggests, InstaVolt specialises in rapid and ultra-rapid DC charging, designed to deliver high-speed top-ups for drivers on the go. Their chargepoints typically offer speeds ranging from 50kW to 160kW, making it possible to recharge in as little as 20 minutes, depending on your vehicle’s battery capacity and current charge level.
Speed: 50kW–150kW
Best for: Reliable, contactless urban and rural charging
App: InstaVolt (but also works with contactless cards)
Shell Recharge
Shell is pushing hard into the EV world, converting its forecourts into hybrid fuel/EV hubs and installing chargers at Waitrose and other key retail locations. Their ultra-rapid offerings are growing fast.
Speed: Up to 175kW
Best for: Charging while shopping or at premium forecourts
App: Shell Recharge
Osprey Charging
Osprey has nailed the “user experience” of EV charging. Their stations are in great locations with canopy cover, clear signage, and multiple bays. Plus, all units support contactless payments.
Speed: 75kW–175kW
Best for: Driver-friendly locations with clear access
App: Osprey app
Best charging apps to download
With so many networks operating independently, it’s no longer practical or necessary to download a separate app for every provider. These multi-network apps simplify your life by giving you access to multiple networks through one platform.
Zap-Map – This has to be our personal choice; it’s the most comprehensive UK charging map. Filter by connector type, network, power, and availability. You can even plan routes and see live availability.
Bonnet – This app aggregates access to multiple networks under one subscription or pay-as-you-go plan, often with discounted rates.
PlugShare – Community-driven app that’s great for reviews and lesser-known locations.
ABRP (A Better Route Planner) – This one’s ideal for longer journeys, factoring in your vehicle, range, and real-time charger data.
We hope this gives you a bit of insight into living with your EV! From rapid chargers at motorway forecourts to destination charging while you grab a coffee, you’ll be ready to hit the road.
