Maghull station has been named Britain’s best railway station in the World Cup of Stations 2024. It went head to head with finalists King’s Lynn and Dorridge, claiming the top spot.
The Sefton station gained support from customers, community groups, politicians and local media as it competed in this year’s contest, which celebrated the wide range of businesses found in train stations across the UK. Organisers Rail Delivery Group revealed that over 100,000 votes had been cast, with Maghull station beating off stiff competition from 47 other entrants.
Merseyrail (which runs Maghull station) attributed its success to both its “fantastic” team and to its popular café, ‘The Coffee Carriage.’
Founded by two local entrepreneurs in 2024, the café quickly became a community hub, offering a range of hot drinks, artisan bakes, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Credit: Rail Delivery Group
Commenting on the win, Suzanne Grant, Chief Commercial Officer and Deputy Managing Director of Merseyrail, said: “Winning the World Cup of Stations is a fantastic achievement and a testament to the amazing support we have seen from the local community during the competition.
“Maghull station is a special place, combining a dedicated station team, a wonderful local business in the form of the Coffee Carriage and not forgetting our station volunteers, who keep it looking at it’s best”.
“We are thrilled that Maghull has been named the best station in Great Britain, and I want to thank everyone who voted and supported us throughout this campaign.”
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, added: “I’m absolutely delighted that Maghull station has been recognised nationally and I know how much it means to all the people involved.
“This fantastic achievement is a testament to the incredible spirit of our local community, as well as the hard work of the station team and volunteers. Along with the folks at The Coffee Carriage, they have made Maghull a proper community hub where people feel welcome and connected.
“Winning this title is a celebration of everything that makes the Liverpool City Region special, and I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who voted and supported us.”
Rory McLellan, Co-owner of the Coffee Carriage also commented: “The support we’ve received has been overwhelming and as a small business still establishing ourselves in this community, this really means a lot. This victory means so much to us, and it’s incredible to see our station recognised on a national level. We’re proud to be a small part of what makes Maghull such a special place.”
Stations across Great Britain participated in the competition, with more than 72,000 votes cast in previous years. Maghull now joins the ranks of past winners, including Wemyss Bay (2023), Stourbridge Junction (2021), and Huddersfield (2019).
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