Maghull station has emerged victorious in the national grand final of the World Cup of Stations 2024, securing the title of Britain’s best railway station. The win was announced today following last Friday’s final vote, which saw the station beat out strong finalists King’s Lynn and Dorridge, to claim the top spot.
The victory comes after Maghull’s impressive performance throughout the tournament, which saw the Sefton station capturing support from local customers, community groups, politicians and across local media.
This year’s contest celebrated the diverse businesses found in train stations across Great Britain, highlighting facilities such as delis, florists, and cafes that enrich local communities and economies.
Maghull’s success is largely attributed to both it’s fantastic station team and to its popular café, ‘The Coffee Carriage,’ which opened in 2024.
Founded by two local entrepreneurs, the café quickly became a community hub, offering a range of hot drinks, artisan bakes, and a welcoming atmosphere that has drawn both regular commuters and residents.
Suzanne Grant, Chief Commercial Officer and Deputy Managing Director of Merseyrail, expressed her pride over the win:
“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, said:
“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 shared his gratitude:
“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.”
The competition, organised by Rail Delivery Group, saw participation from stations across Great Britain, 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).
