UK forecourts changing fuel prices several times a day
By Anthony Sharkey, Chief Operating Officer, New Reg Limited · 10 Sept 2026
Recent data shows some UK forecourts are adjusting fuel prices multiple times daily, impacting driver costs.
In a notable shift, several UK forecourts have begun changing their pump prices several times a day, which could have significant implications for drivers. This pattern can make it challenging for motorists to predict when to refuel without overspending.
Official UK government fuel price data indicates that in a 72-hour period leading up to 10 September, six forecourts altered their unleaded fuel prices three times or more. For instance, BP's station in Brough adjusted its price nine times, fluctuating between 164.9p and 170.9p a litre. Such frequent changes can lead to confusion, as the prices can vary substantially from one hour to the next, potentially impacting a driver’s overall fuel expenses.
For drivers, this means being more vigilant about checking fuel prices before heading out to refuel. It may also be wise to identify the best times to fill up, as some stations see lower prices at specific times of the day. By being proactive, motorists can avoid paying more than necessary for fuel.
Additionally, potential price swings could stem from data-entry errors when stations submit their figures to the government. Drivers are advised to verify prices in real time to avoid reliance on possibly outdated information. With fuel prices remaining a key consideration for many car owners, staying informed can help manage spending effectively.
In conclusion, the changes in fuel pricing trends underscore the need for drivers to pay close attention to fluctuations at forecourts. By knowing when and where to refuel, motorists can optimise their costs and make informed decisions on their fuel purchases.
Price pattern watch: forecourts that repeatedly move their price at set times
Updated automatically from official UK government fuel price data (as at 20 September 2026). Each forecourt below moved a fuel price in both directions (up then down, or down then up) at a consistent time of day, and repeated that on at least three separate days in the last week. A one-off price change is not listed. Patterns aligned with peak traffic are shown first.
- Shell (DN14 8JS) in Goole (unleaded, diesel, super diesel and premium unleaded): On 7 of the last 7 days this station raised its price by about 2.0p around 10pm, then dropped it again within hours. A pattern repeating at the same time each day suggests the price is raised to earn more from drivers during that part of the day.
- Parkfoot Garage Limited (ME19 5AE) in West Malling (premium unleaded and super diesel): On 6 of the last 7 days this station cut its price by about 13.0p around 8pm, then put it back up within hours. A dip repeating at the same time each day suggests the lower price is offered only briefly.
- BP (HU9 5QL) in Hull (diesel, super diesel and unleaded): On 4 of the last 7 days this station raised its price by about 1.0p around 10pm, then dropped it again within hours. A pattern repeating at the same time each day suggests the price is raised to earn more from drivers during that part of the day.
- BP (HU15 2SL) in Brough (diesel, unleaded and super diesel): On 4 of the last 7 days this station raised its price by about 1.0p around 10pm, then dropped it again within hours. A pattern repeating at the same time each day suggests the price is raised to earn more from drivers during that part of the day.
- BP (HU15 2RD) in Brough (diesel, unleaded, premium unleaded and super diesel): On 4 of the last 7 days this station raised its price by about 1.0p around 10pm, then dropped it again within hours. A pattern repeating at the same time each day suggests the price is raised to earn more from drivers during that part of the day.
- BP (HU5 5BA) in Hull (diesel, unleaded, premium unleaded and super diesel): On 4 of the last 7 days this station raised its price by about 1.0p around 10pm, then dropped it again within hours. A pattern repeating at the same time each day suggests the price is raised to earn more from drivers during that part of the day.
- Essar Brewster Street Service Statrion (L4 3TL) in Bootle (diesel and unleaded): On 3 of the last 7 days this station raised its price by about 3.0p around 11pm, then dropped it again within hours. A pattern repeating at the same time each day suggests the price is raised to earn more from drivers during that part of the day.
All figures are taken directly from official UK government fuel price data (Open Government Licence v3.0), covering the last 7 days. This list is refreshed daily. The stated timing is what the data shows; any suggestion of intent is our own interpretation of that repeated pattern.
Sources
This story cites UK Fuel Price Data.