Maghull railway station in Sefton, Merseyside, has triumphed as the best railway station in Britain, claiming the top title in the 2024 ‘World Cup of Stations’ competition.
The station emerged victorious over notable competitors such as King’s Lynn in Norfolk and Dorridge in the West Midlands, thanks to its exceptional station team and the community’s beloved cafe, The Coffee Carriage, which opened earlier this year.
A spokesperson for Merseyrail attributed the station’s success to “its fantastic station team and to its popular cafe, The Coffee Carriage,” highlighting the cafe’s role as a major draw for both commuters and local residents.
Rory McLellan, co-owner of The Coffee Carriage, expressed his delight at the win, stating, “This victory means so much to us, and it’s incredible to see our station recognised on a national level.” He added, “We’re proud to be a small part of what makes Maghull such a special place.”
The competition, organised by the Rail Delivery Group, sought to celebrate the diverse businesses that enhance railway stations across the UK, recognising facilities like cafes, delis, and florists that enrich local communities and boost economies.
The Rail Delivery Group explained that the contest aimed to honour stations that go “above and beyond in serving their communities.”
Maghull’s win has been met with widespread enthusiasm. Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, expressed his joy, stating, “I’m absolutely delighted that Maghull station has been recognised nationally, and I know how much it means to all the people involved.”
Rotheram praised the station for embodying “the incredible spirit of our local community” and described it as “a proper community hub where people feel welcome and connected.”
The Coffee Carriage has become a popular gathering spot, with customers ranging from commuters grabbing a coffee on their way to work to local residents enjoying a leisurely visit.
The cafe features a hot food cabinet offering bacon sandwiches, a selection of cakes displayed behind glass, and a photo board showcasing some of the dogs that frequent the cafe with their owners.
Merseyrail’s deputy managing director, Suzanne Grant, hailed the victory as “a fantastic achievement and a testament to the amazing support we have seen from the local community during the competition.”
She credited the win to the station’s dedicated team, the efforts of volunteers who help maintain the station’s appearance, and the presence of The Coffee Carriage as a welcoming local business.
“Maghull station is a special place,” Grant said, expressing gratitude to everyone who voted and supported the station throughout the campaign.
This year’s competition saw thousands of votes cast, with Maghull joining an esteemed list of previous winners, including Wemyss Bay in 2023, Stourbridge Junction in 2021, and Huddersfield in 2019.
The achievement marks a significant milestone for Maghull, solidifying its reputation as a standout railway station that goes beyond providing a transit service, fostering a sense of community and connection.
