It is known nationally for its proximity to the Watford Gap motorway service station. The phrase "North of Watford Gap" is used light-heartedly to describe areas of Great Britain that are north of London. The phrase may refer to the village being traditionally an important waypoint on the old east-west and north-south coaching routes. This was the point where the main north-south road, rail and canal routes came together at a gap in the hills known as Watford Gap.